Izmir And Ephesus Tour From Ankara

Duration: 2 days 1 nights
Tour Style: Private tour
Pickup Point: Ankara-Turkey(from your hotel)
Pickup Time: 5:30 am
Drop-off Time: 5:00 pm
Highlights: Beth Israel Synagogue, Dario Moreno and Havra (Synagogues) Streets, Kizlaragasi inn, Clock tower, Kadifekale (Velvet Castle), Elevator, Agora of Izmir, and Kemeralti Bazaar, The Temple of Artemis, Ephesus Archaeological Site, The House of Virgin Mary

-05:00 Pick-Up Time From your hotel or designated pick-up point. We guarantee seamless transit towards the Ankara airport.
-07:30 Flight from Ankara to Izmir.
–08:30 Arrive at Izmir Airport.

Note: Upon arrival at Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, a warm reception awaits as our dedicated transfer staff will greet you. Subsequently, you will proceed to Izmir city center, marking the start of your exploration into the rich tapestry of history and culture.

TOUR CONCEPT

DAY 1: IZMIR TOUR

Izmir is a city of rich history and diverse cultures, encapsulated beautifully within its various historical sites. The Beth-Israel Synagogue in the Karataş district is a prime example of this cultural tapestry. Constructed in 1905 by decree of Sultan Abdülhamid II and inaugurated in 1907, it stands as the largest synagogue in Izmir, a testament to the thriving Jewish community that has contributed to the city’s vibrancy.

Following our visit to the synagogue, we will stroll along Dario Moreno Street, a picturesque avenue named in honor of the cherished Jewish singer and actor, Dario Moreno. His love for Izmir was well-known, and this street is a celebration of his legacy.

“The Elevator,” a historical building linked with an actual elevator, provides a unique way to view the city and connects the lower streets with the upper hillside. It’s an iconic landmark and offers a beautiful view of Izmir.

Next on our itinerary is Havra Street, renowned for its smaller, yet immensely significant synagogues. Some of these places of worship are steeped in history, dating back up to 400 years. This street not only highlights the religious history of the city but also its architectural evolution.

As we meander through the streets, we find ourselves near the historic Kemeraltı Bazaar. This bustling market is accessible from Havra Street and offers an authentic shopping and cultural experience where you can find an array of traditional goods and delicacies.

Our historical exploration continues at the Izmir Agora, an ancient marketplace that harks back to the 4th century BC. Reconstructed after a devastating earthquake in 178 AD, with support from the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, the Agora remains a significant archaeological site, providing a peek into the ancient civic life of Izmir.

Concluding the historical voyage of the day, we arrive at Kadifekale, another venerable site in the city. The imposing presence of this hilltop castle offers panoramic views of Izmir and the opportunity to reflect on the city’s extensive past.

Our tour will wrap up around 17:00, at which point we will depart for the hotel in Kusadasi, where you can unwind and savor the evening at your leisure, reflecting on the day’s rich tapestry of cultural and historical encounters.

DAY 2: EPHESUS TOUR

We will pick you up from the hotel around 9:30 and our tour begins.Embark on a journey back in time as you explore the ancient and historical wonders of Ephesus:

House of the Virgin Mary:Tour starts with the serene and sanctified Nestled amidst lush greenery, this sacred site harbors deep religious significance. It is believed to be where St. John took the Virgin Mary after the death of Jesus, offering a tranquil sanctuary for contemplation.

Ephesus’ ruins: Continuing the journey, you’ll delve into the heart of the past with a walking tour Here, the Odeon’s grandeur, the grace of the Fountain of Trajan, and the Scholastic steam baths tell the tales of a civilization deeply steeped in cultural sophistication. The Temple of Hadrian and the iconic Library of Ephesus will magnify your awe with their elaborate facades, pillars, and sculptures that continue to stand as testaments to ancient architectural prowess.

As you wander through the ruins, envisage vibrant past events like Mark Antony and Cleopatra’s procession along the Arcadian Way, resonating with the magnitude of their historic love story. Stand amidst the staggering dimensions of the Grand Theatre, where Saint Paul once addressed an ancient audience, an amphitheater that echoes with the voices of the past that once filled its vast 24,000 seats.

The Temple of Artemis :Your cultural odyssey culminates in the remnants of the Temple of Artemis. Once celebrated as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, this colossal edifice honored the Greek Goddess of hunting and nature. Though now in ruins, its scale still impresses, hinting at the grandeur that made this temple four times larger than Athens’ Parthenon, a true marvel of ancient ingenuity and devotion.

-16:30 End of the Ephesus Tour

-17:00 Depart from Ephesus to Izmir Airport

-19:30 Flight from Izmir to Istanbul

-20:30 Arrive in Istanbul, Arrange a meeting at the airport, and transfer back to your hotel.