A calm half-day (3–4 hour) pilgrimage tour from Kuşadası to the House of the Virgin Mary on Mt. Koressos, believed to be the final home of Mary, mother of Jesus. Includes the candle-lit chapel, the Wishing Wall and the sacred spring, with hotel or cruise-port pickup. From €39.
Tour Highlights
- House of the Virgin Mary (Meryem Ana Evi)
- Wishing Wall and sacred spring
- Catholic shrine recognised by the Vatican
- Hotel pickup from Kuşadası
Itinerary
- 109:00Pickup from your hotel or cruise port.
- 209:45Arrival at the House of the Virgin Mary on Mt. Koressos.
- 310:30Guided visit, time for prayer and reflection at the Wishing Wall.
- 412:00Return to Kuşadası.
What's included
- Hotel/port transfers
- Licensed guide
- Air-conditioned vehicle
Not included
- Entrance fee
- Donations
- Lunch
Who is this tour best for?
- Pilgrims and religious travellers
- Visitors who want a peaceful half-day
- Older travellers — the visit involves little walking
- Cruise passengers with a short port call
Frequently asked questions
Where is the House of the Virgin Mary?
On the wooded slopes of Mt. Koressos (Bülbül Dağı), about 7 km above the ruins of Ephesus and roughly 30 km from Kuşadası. There is no public bus up the mountain road, which is why most visitors come by tour, car or taxi.
Is there a dress code at the House of the Virgin Mary?
Modest dress is expected — shoulders and knees covered — and visitors are asked to keep silent inside the small chapel. The site is sacred to both Christians and Muslims.
Can I combine the House of the Virgin Mary with Ephesus?
Yes — the two sites are minutes apart and the full-day Ephesus + Virgin Mary combo tour covers both with lunch included. The half-day Mary-only tour suits those who have already seen Ephesus or prefer a shorter day.
Is the House of the Virgin Mary officially recognised?
The Catholic Church has never formally ruled on its authenticity but has long encouraged pilgrimage here, and several popes — including Paul VI, John Paul II and Benedict XVI — have visited the shrine.
