Ancient Ephesus & House of the Virgin Mary from Kusadasi Port

Hello! I’m Çiğdem, a licensed professional tour guide with more than 20 years of experience, based in the İzmir–Kuşadası region and specializing in Ephesus and the Aegean region of Türkiye. I graduated from the Faculty of Tourism with a bachelor’s degree in Tourism Guiding. I have always been passionate about history, archaeology, ancient civilizations, ancient architecture, art, Biblical history, and the rich Jewish and Christian heritage of this region. I love bringing the history of Ephesus to life and sharing the stories behind the places we visit, from ancient temples and archaeological sites to the remarkable architecture of the ancient city. I am especially interested in how people lived, worked, worshipped, and experienced everyday life in the ancient world. I have welcomed travelers from around the world, including many cruise passengers visiting the region on shore excursions. I also enjoy sharing Türkiye beyond its ancient sites — its local life, traditions, food, and the small everyday experiences that help visitors connect with the country and its people. For me, a good tour is not only about seeing famous sights, but about feeling the atmosphere of a place and connecting with both its past and its living culture. I love creating relaxed, personal tours based on my guests’ interests.