Priene, Miletus & Didyma Tour – Cities, Sanctuaries & Ancient Thought

Not Rated
Duration

Daily Tour

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

99 people

Languages

Ümit

This full-day tour explores three of the most important ancient sites of western Anatolia—Priene, Miletus, and Didyma—each representing a different aspect of the ancient Greek world. Departing from Kuşadası or Selçuk, the itinerary traces the development of urban planning, political life, philosophy, and religious practice from the Classical and Hellenistic periods into Roman times. Set against dramatic landscapes shaped by the former coastline of the Aegean Sea, the tour offers a clear understanding of how these cities functioned as interconnected centers of thought, power, and worship.

Highlights

  • Ancient City of Priene, a model of Hellenistic urban planning
  • Temple of Athena Polias, overlooking the Maeander Valley
  • Ancient City of Miletus, a major Ionian city and center of philosophy
  • Monumental Roman theater of Miletus
  • Delphinion, sacred to Apollo and civic identity
  • Temple of Apollo at Didyma, one of the largest oracle sanctuaries of antiquity

Ancient City of Priene

The tour begins with a visit to Priene, dramatically situated on the slopes of Mount Mykale. Once a member of the Panionian League, Priene is renowned for its well-preserved Hellenistic city plan, based on a grid system that reflects advanced urban design principles. Key monuments include the Temple of Athena Polias, attributed to the architect Pytheos, the terraced theater, and civic buildings that illustrate daily life in a Classical Greek city.

Ancient City of Miletus

Continue to Miletus, one of the most influential city-states of the ancient world. Famous as the birthplace of early philosophers such as Thales, Miletus played a central role in trade, colonization, and intellectual history. The visit focuses on the vast Roman theater, agora areas, and the Delphinion, a sanctuary dedicated to Apollo that functioned as both a religious and civic center.

Didyma – Temple of Apollo

The tour concludes at Didyma, home to the monumental Temple of Apollo, one of the most important oracle sanctuaries of antiquity. Connected to Miletus by a sacred road, the temple was renowned for its scale, architectural ambition, and prophetic function. Although never fully completed, the sanctuary remains one of the most impressive religious structures of the ancient world, offering insight into ritual practice and sacred architecture.

  • Private tour with a professional, licensed, fluent English-speaking tour guide
  • Private vehicle with driver
  • Admission fees to Priene, Miletus, and Didyma
  • Guided visits according to the published itinerary
  • Hotel or port pick-up and drop-off from Kuşadası or Selçuk
  • Lunch and beverages
  • Personal expenses
  • Gratuities (optional)
  • Any services not explicitly mentioned under Inclusions

Fullday (+7hours)

Ümit

Tour's Location

Is this a private tour?

Yes. This tour is operated as a private tour, exclusively for you and your party, accompanied by a professional, licensed tour guide.

How does transportation work during the tour?

This tour is conducted by private vehicle with a driver, as the sites are spread across the countryside and not accessible on foot.

How much walking is involved in this tour?

This tour involves an estimated X.X km (approximately X.X miles) of walking over the course of the day, equivalent to roughly X,xxx–X,xxx steps. Walking mainly takes place within the archaeological sites and includes uneven terrain. The pace is moderate, with regular stops.

Is this tour suitable for guests with limited mobility or wheelchairs?

This tour is not fully wheelchair accessible. Archaeological sites include uneven ground, slopes, and stairs. Guests with mobility concerns are encouraged to contact us in advance for guidance.

How do you handle personal information and privacy?

We respect guest privacy and personal data. Any information shared with us is used solely for tour operations and communication and is not shared with third parties except where required to deliver services or by law.

Will photos or videos be taken during the tour?

Guests are welcome to take their own photos throughout the tour. We do not take photos or videos of guests for promotional purposes without clear prior consent.

Additional Information
  • All prices are quoted in USD (United States Dollar).
  • This tour involves driving through rural areas and former coastal plains shaped by the Maeander River.
  • To ensure a smooth and efficient experience, the tour guide may adjust the order of visits depending on weather conditions, crowd levels, or operational requirements.
  • Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and water are strongly recommended.
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Owner

barisyenigun

Member Since 2025

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