Sardes Tour from Izmir
Sardes Tour from Izmir
Sardes Tour
Tour Duration: 09:00 – 17:00
Departure Point: Izmir Airport or your hotel
Drop-off: Izmir Airport or your hotel
Tour Itinerary
Sardes Ancient City
Our tour begins with pick-up from your chosen location — either Izmir Airport or your hotel — at the pre-arranged time. We then drive to Sardes, located in Salihli, Manisa Province. The journey from Izmir to Salihli takes approximately 90 minutes.
Upon arrival at Sardes Ancient City, we will spend around 90 minutes exploring the impressive ruins of this once powerful city. Highlights include the Temple of Artemis, the Gymnasium, and the ancient Synagogue — one of the largest known from antiquity and a key part of the region’s rich Jewish heritage.
Sardes was the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Lydia, an important city in both the Persian and Roman Empires, and later a prominent center in Byzantine times. It is also known as one of the Seven Churches of Asia mentioned in the Book of Revelation. The city's strategic location along an important trade route, combined with its military strength and its control of the fertile Hermus plain, contributed to its historic significance.
After exploring the site, we will have lunch in the Manisa region, before returning to Izmir.
At the end of the tour, transfer back to your hotel or Izmir Airport.
What's Included
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Professional English-speaking tour guide
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Air-conditioned vehicle
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20% VAT
Not Included
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Entrance fees to listed sites and museums
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Tips for guide and driver
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Drinks
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Lunch
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Personal expenses
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Anything not specifically mentioned in the "Included" section
Q1: What is unique about Sardes?
A: Sardes was the ancient capital of Lydia and is famous for its rich history, including the Temple of Artemis and the oldest known synagogue in the world.
Q2: How physically demanding is the tour?
A: The tour involves moderate walking on uneven terrain. Comfortable shoes are essential.
Q3: Will there be time to explore the ancient gymnasium and baths?
A: Yes, the itinerary includes visits to the gymnasium complex, baths, and other major archaeological remains.
Q4: Are meals included during the tour?
A: Lunch is not included but there will be a break with options for dining at local restaurants.
Q5: Can I purchase souvenirs or local products on this tour?
A: Yes, there are local shops near the site where you can buy traditional crafts and products.
Q6: Is Sardes accessible for travelers with limited mobility?
A: Some parts of the site have uneven surfaces which may be challenging; please contact us for more details.
Q7: How long will the visit to Sardes last?
A: Approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on group size and interest.
Q8: What languages are the tours available in?
A: The main language is English. Other languages can be requested in advance.
Q9: What should I bring with me?
A: Comfortable shoes, water, sun protection, and a camera are recommended.
Q10: Can the tour be customized?
A: Yes, private tours and custom itineraries are available upon request.
To ensure the highest quality of service and fair scheduling for all our guests, we follow a straightforward cancellation policy.
✔ Full Refund: Cancel up to 24 hours before the start time of your tour or transfer and receive a 100% refund.
✘ No Refund: Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the scheduled time and failure to attend the activity (no-show) are non-refundable.
Our team begins planning and allocating vehicles and guides well in advance, so we kindly ask for your cooperation and timely communication if plans change.
