Visit Meryemana — the mountain-top stone house where the Virgin Mary is believed to have lived out her final years — then tour ancient Ephesus, combining sacred pilgrimage with one of antiquity's greatest cities.
What to expect
The road to the House of the Virgin Mary winds through fragrant pine forest on Mount Koressos, arriving at a modest 1st-century stone chapel that has drawn Catholic, Orthodox, and Muslim pilgrims for centuries. Light a candle in the hushed interior, then tie a wish to the nearby 'Wall of Wishes.' Descend to Ephesus for the full archaeological circuit, understanding how this city — where St John brought Mary after the Crucifixion — sits at the crossroads of classical and Christian civilisation.
Good to know
Dress modestly for the House of the Virgin Mary (shoulders and knees covered). The site is 9 km from Ephesus — a private vehicle is essential. Morning visits are cooler and quieter. Combine with St John's Basilica in Selçuk if time permits.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Ephesus — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Ephesus
- Private Ephesus Tour with Expert Local Guide & On-Time Return
- Ephesus Terrace Houses: Private Guided Tour of Ancient Luxury
- Temple of Artemis & Ephesus: Chasing a Lost Wonder of the World
- Ephesus & Selçuk Archaeology Museum: Deep-Dive Private Cultural Tour
- Şirince Village Wine Tasting & Ephesus: Heritage & Terroir Half-Day