Visiting Ephesus Ancient City and need help planning a visit? I’ve crafted an encyclopedic guide so you can explore the beautiful ruins of Ephesus in Türkiye like a pro!
Visiting Ephesus Travel Guide: An Introduction
Located near modern-day Selçuk, along the western coast of Turkey where the Cayster River drains into the Aegean Sea, Ephesus Ancient City is one of the most well-preserved archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Turkey.
Today, it attracts history and culture enthusiasts and curious travelers worldwide to explore its impressive ruins and learn about its fascinating past. In fact, any itinerary for Turkey is considered incomplete without Ephesus or Efes ruins on it!
History of Ephesus
From its origins as an ancient Greek city to its prominence during the Roman Empire, Ephesus played a crucial role in shaping the cultural, religious, and economic landscape of the ancient world.
Dating back to the Neolithic period, Ephesus is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. It evolved into a flourishing Ionian Greek colony as a vital member of the Ionian League around the early 1st millennium BCE.
The city’s prosperity continued through the Hellenistic period, during which it thrived under the rule of diverse empires, including the Persians, Lydians, Alexander the Great, and the Romans.
Ephesus reached its zenith during the 1st century CE as a bustling Roman metropolis.
With a population estimated at over 250,000, the city enjoyed significant prosperity, thanks to its strategic location, blooming trade, and the presence of the architectural marvel of the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
Most of the architectural ruins you see today in Ephesus took shape during the golden age of Roman imperialism that spans from the rule of Caesar Augustus to the rule of Marcus Aurelius.
As Christianity took root, Ephesus gained prominence for its connection to apostles John and Paul and the presence of the Virgin Mary. It’s believed that Mary and St. John spent the last years of their life in Ephesus, Turkey.
Despite this illustrious history, the city’s decline commenced in the 4th century CE due to changing trade routes, religious shifts, and natural forces. It was when Emperor Constantine declared Christianity as an official religion of the Roman Empire, and a mob destroyed the Temple of Artemis and used its ruins to build Christian churches.
Eventually, by the 7th century CE, the city faded into obscurity and abandonment due to natural disasters and repeated Arab invasions.
Most of the population of Ephesus fled and started a new settlement. It did experience a brief period of development under the reign of the Seljuk Turks who constructed important monuments like Isa Bey Mosque, however, under the Ottomans, the city was finally shunned.
It remained buried and forgotten for centuries until the late 19th century when archaeologists meticulously began uncovering its magnificent ruins. Extensive excavations, led by Austrian and Turkish archaeologists, have continued to this day, revealing the grandeur and importance of this ancient city.
Today, Ephesus stands as a remarkable testament to the achievements of the ancient world, offering visitors a captivating journey back in time to explore the remnants of this once-thriving civilization.
Interesting Facts About Ephesus
‣ Ephesus has been the birthplace of many brilliant minds of the ancient world such as Hipponax, Heraclitus, Hermodorus, Parrhasius, and Apelles.
‣ It’s an important center of early Christianity. The first-ever church dedicated to the Virgin Mary is here. Apostle Paul and Saint John the Evangelist visited it while Pope Benedict XVI, Pope Paul VI, and Pope John Paul II held sermons in Ephesus.
‣ The Holy Bible mentions Ephesus among the seven churches of Revelation.
‣ One of the seven wonders of the ancient world, The Temple of Artemis, now in complete ruins, graces the landscape of Ephesus.
‣ With a seating capacity of 25,000 people, one of the greatest ancient theaters of the Roman world is in Ephesus.
‣ The Library of Celsus is one of the most impressive and most-photographed structures in Ephesus. In fact, it finds a top place in the most beautiful landmarks in Turkey.
‣ While the main attractions of Ephesus, such as the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater, are well-known, the Terrace Houses offer a unique glimpse into the daily lives of the wealthy inhabitants of Ephesus. These well-preserved, intricately decorated houses showcase beautiful frescoes, mosaics, and advanced heating systems.
‣ Ephesus was one of the few ancient cities to have a sophisticated sewage and sanitation system. The city had public toilets with running water and a complex network of underground sewage tunnels.
‣ The layout of Ephesus was intentionally designed with symbolism. For example, the main street leading from the harbor to the Library of Celsus was symbolic of the journey from birth (harbor) to knowledge and enlightenment (library).
‣ Ephesus played a role in the Silk Road trade route, connecting the East and West. The city’s strategic location contributed to its prosperity and cultural diversity.
‣ Ephesus was struck by several earthquakes over the centuries, leading to its decline and eventual abandonment. The reconstructed city that visitors see today is a testament to the resilience and dedication of archaeologists and preservationists.
Where is the Ancient City of Ephesus in Turkey?
Located in the Aegean region of Turkey, near the town of Selcuk, Ephesus is around 3 km (1.9 miles) southwest of Selcuk, approximately 18 km (11 miles) north of Kusadasi, and about 80 km (50 miles) south of Izmir.
The proximity to Selcuk makes it a convenient base for visiting Ephesus. On the other hand, Kuşadası being the most popular port of call for cruise ships visiting Türkiye remains the preferred base for cruise tourists keen to visit Ephesus.
Is Ephesus Worth Visiting?
No two ways about it. Well, how can it not be? One of the greatest ancient cities of the world is full of archeological wonders.
Also, the fact that it’s an important center of early Christianity and Ephesus and Ephesians hold a great biblical significance makes it worth a visit for Christians as a pilgrimage site and for the people of different faiths as a profound cultural, historical, and religious experience.
Walking the satiny marble streets dotted with age-old architectural works whispering the stories of the glorious past, each unfolding a mystery, is nothing short of amazing.
It feels like you are, literally, in ancient Roman times!
When to Visit Ephesus?
The best time to visit Ephesus Turkey is during the spring (April and May) and autumn (October and November) months.
With pleasant weather, comfortable temperatures, and fewer crowds, these months are perfect for exploring the ruins in all its glory.
While summer is a peak tourist season, the ruins offer limited shade, except for the covered terrace houses, so visiting the archeological site during the summer months of June, July, and August isn’t recommended.
For travelers who don’t mind the cooler weather, winter could be an option. During the winter months of December, January, and February, the tourist season winds down allowing you to enjoy the site in peace. However, keep the reduced operating hours or closures in mind.
How Long to Spend Touring Ephesus Ruins?
It takes about 2 to 4 hours to walk through the ancient city of Ephesus, half a day is more than enough to explore it.
However, if you are a history enthusiast or a shutterbug, you may want to allocate a full day to appreciate the historical, cultural, and archeological significance and the architectural beauty of the site.
Visiting Ephesus Essentials
Ephesus Opening Hours
The opening hours may vary depending on the season, so it’s essential to check the official website.
Typically, Ephesus opens every day at 8 am and closes around sunset. The ticket office closes an hour before the closing time.
Ephesus Entrance Fee
At the time of my visit (June 2023), the entrance fee to the ancient city of Ephesus is 700 TL (23.5 Euro or 25.9 USD) per person. Admission to the Terrace Houses needs you to pay an additional 320 TL (11.7 Euro or 12.9 USD).
A combined ticket for the Ephesus Archeological Site, The Terrace Houses, the Ephesus Museum, and the Basilica of St. John for 1250 TL (42 Euro or 46.2 USD) is also available.
The entrance fee is subject to change, it’s advisable to check the current prices on the official website while you plan a trip to Ephesus.
The entrance fee prices for almost all the attractions in Turkey have catapulted in recent times. We spent a pretty penny just on the entrance fees.
If you plan to visit more archeological sites and museums in Turkey, I strongly recommend you buy Museum Pass Türkiye. In 3500 TL (117.8 Euro or 129.5 USD), you can visit more than 300 museums and archaeological sites. The pass is valid for 15 days starting from your first use. It helps you save a lot of hassle, time, and, money.
How and Where to Buy Ephesus Tickets
You can buy the entrance ticket at the ticket counter or online. Both the lower gate and the upper gate entrances have a ticket office.
If you are visiting Ephesus around the tourist season, make sure you reach as soon as the ticket window opens to escape the long queues.
Better yet, buy an e-ticket to skip the line and save yourself precious time.
Ephesus Archaeological Site Entrance Gates
Ephesus has two main entrances: the north or lower gate (Gate of Hercules) entrance and the south or upper or top gate (Magnesia Gate) entrance.
The ancient city slopes down from south to north and, of course, climbs up from north to south.
The lower gate is closer to the major points of interest and is often preferred as the starting point for most visitors. And also, the north entrance is much more accessible for those coming by their own vehicle due to the easy parking facility.
Plus, the dolmuş (minibus) service is also available to/at the lower entrance to/from Selcuk.
That concludes that the lower entrance is the best entrance for Ephesus.
The upper gate parking is about 2 km (1 mile) from the ticket window. You can walk or ride a horse-drawn carriage to the south entrance gate.
Most guided tour groups begin at the upper gate.
We planned our visit in a way we could get the ancient site all to ourselves so we could leisurely and peacefully explore the beautiful ruins.
Pre-booked entrance tickets saved us time at the entrance. We reached as soon as the site opened (sharp at 8 am), parked our rental car, entered via the lower gate, and appreciated each and every structure crowd-free, in a relaxed manner.
There were hardly any tourists, only a few I could count on my fingers. By the time we reached the Hercules Gate, hordes of tourists, especially the tours with cruise guests, came pouring in. I checked the time – it was close to 10 am.
We chose to do a loop (yes, a lot of walking, however, on a positive note, we got to see the sights we overlooked or missed earlier) to come back to our car at the lower gate.
Alternatively, you can park your car at the north entrance, hire a taxi or ride a horse carriage to the upper gate, explore the ruins, and finish at the lower gate.
But…I would still prefer a loop because starting at the lower gate gives you an edge over others as you are able to see the prominent sites like Celsus Library and the Great Theatre before the tour guests arrive there.
As with a guided tour, you start at the upper gate, finish the tour, and board the tour bus at the lower gate.
How to Get to Ephesus Ancient City
If you are contemplating how to visit Ephesus, getting to Ephesus is quite easy.
The ruins of Ephesus are easily accessible from Selcuk, Kusadasi, Izmir, and even Bodrum. And, If you want to know how to get to Ephesus from Istanbul, I’ve got you covered.
You can reach the ancient city by car, taxi, bus, tour, or plane depending on where you are coming from.
Selcuk to Ephesus
If you are staying in Selcuk, you can get to Ephesus in less than 10 minutes by a rental car, taxi, or minivan (dolmus). The ancient city is just about 3.5 kilometers (2.1 miles) from Selcuk.
Please note, the minivan leaves you at the lower gate.
Kusadasi to Ephesus
If you base yourself at Kusadasi, a short drive (about 25 minutes) can get you to the ancient city.
There are tons of half-day and full-day guided tours available from Kusadasi to Ephesus, you can choose the one that fits the bill.
Izmir to Ephesus
With an easy distance of 83 km (52 miles) between Izmir and Ephesus, an hour’s drive is all you need to complete the journey.
Those traveling on a budget with ample time on hand can opt for a train or a bus journey. There aren’t direct train or bus connections from Izmir to Ephesus, you’ll have to take a train or bus to Selcuk, then transfer to a minibus or a taxi to Ephesus.
A train runs six times a day from Izmir’s Basmane Train Station (Basmane Gari) to Selcuk, the journey takes an hour and a half and costs around 10 TL (1.5 Euro or 2 USD) per person.
A bus departs every hour from Izmir Şehirlerarası Bus Terminal to Selcuk, however, you’ll need to factor in the time taken to travel from Izmir’s city center to the bus station which is located in the suburb.
Alternatively, you can book an easy guided day trip from Izmir to Ephesus.
Bodrum to Ephesus
The most flexible option, of course, is to rent a car and drive from Bodrum to Ephesus. The distance is approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles), and the journey takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route generally involves taking the D330 and then connecting to the D525.
You can take a bus from Bodrum to Selçuk, the town closest to Ephesus. Though, a cost-effective mode of transportation, it’s time-consuming (not feasible for tourists with a time constraint) as it usually takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on the bus company and the route taken. You can find bus schedules and book tickets at Bodrum’s bus terminal.
The best way is to sign up for a guided day trip from Bodrum to Ephesus. It works wonders wherein there’s limited access to the logistics and time is a major factor.
Istanbul to Ephesus
Ephesus is about 543 km (337 miles) from Istanbul.
The fastest way is taking a flight from Istanbul to Izmir and then a taxi from Izmir to Ephesus.
The cheapest way is taking a bus from Istanbul to Selcuk and then a minivan from Selcuk to Ephesus.
The most beautiful and flexible way is driving from Istanbul to Ephesus via Otoyol-5 or O-5. A road trip takes anywhere between 6 to 7 hours or more with stops, however, is rewarding.
The driving route passes through the historical cities of Bursa and Balikesir that are worth exploring. In fact, if you can dedicate more time, short detours from Balikesir can get you to the ancient city of Troy and the charming town of Ayvalik.
Finally, the most convenient way is to join a full-day guided tour from Istanbul to Ephesus. The tour might feel rushed, however, is a great option for those who are short on time and still want to explore one of the most beautiful ancient sites in the world.
Best Tours to Visit Ephesus
I always recommend guided tours for tourists with a tight schedule or who don’t want to take the hassle of planning and logistics. You can just relax and enjoy the place while someone else takes care of the rest. I’m a DIY traveler, but I like to add a tour or two to my itinerary as a breather.
Here are some of the best tours to visit Ephesus based on the travelers’ ratings and services.
Best Istanbul to Ephesus Tour Options
Best Izmir to Ephesus Tour Options
Best Kusadasi to Ephesus Tour Options
Best Bodrum to Ephesus Tour Options
Best Walking Tours of Ephesus
Here are some of the best Ephesus walking tours for travelers who have logistics sorted, yet want a professional guide to explore Ephesus Turkey.
Having a knowledgeable local guide makes a huge difference as he or she home in on the historically significant and the most photogenic spots in Ephesus for you.
Where to Stay in Ephesus
Just a stone’s throw from the ruins at Ephesus, Selçuk is the best city to base yourself in for visiting Ephesus. Some of the best hotels in Ephesus are located in Selcuk.
If somehow you aren’t able to choose Selcuk – Kusadasi and Izmir are also reasonable options as both the cities are at a fair drivable distance from the ruins (can be explored as an easy day trip) and there are tons of guided tours available from here to Ephesus.
We stayed at Amazon Petite Palace and loved every bit of our stay. They have simple yet comfortable rooms. The staff is warm and welcoming. The breakfast spread is great. And, most importantly, the hotel is super close to famous attractions like the Basilica of St John, the Ephesus Museum, and the Temple of Artemis.
Other great accommodations in Selcuk are Ibri Hotel, Celsus Boutique Hotel, Livia Garden Hotel, Ayasoluk Hotel, In Ephesus Hotel, Artemis Selcuk Suites, and Kasbah Shirin.
If you are staying in Kusadasi, LaVista Boutique Hotel & Spa, Ilayda Avantgarde Hotel, Rodina Suites Hotel, and Villa Ephesus are some of the best properties.
For those who choose to stay in Izmir, there are amazing accommodation options like Izmir Marriott Hotel, Key Hotel, and Met Boutique Hotel.
Map of Ephesus
Make sure you keep the map of Ephesus handy as it helps a lot while exploring the ruins as it shows you the exact location and sequence of the major structures in the ancient city.
You can grab one from the ticket window (best as they provide the official updated version) or print it online or take a picture from the signboard at the entrance as I did (picture below).
The map below shows the popular Ephesus attractions sequence from the lower to the upper gate entrance. If you enter through the upper gate, the exploration operates in reverse order.
Best Things to do in Ephesus Ancient City
Strolling through the ruins of Ephesus is a hauntingly beautiful experience. Looking at the ruins, you can imagine the grandiosity of the ancient city and at the same time, realize that even the greatest empires fall.
And if you are anything like me, the ruins will also remind you how ephemeral and transient life is!
Well, at least, the architectural ruins can be reimagined, redeemed, and transformed.
Before I get lost in a tangent, let’s talk about what to see in Ephesus and what to do in Ephesus.
From the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre to the Terrace Houses and Curetes Street – Ephesus is full of mesmerizing attractions, each more beautiful than the next.
With descriptive signboards, it’s easy to identify the structures and know their historical significance.
As soon as you enter through the lower gate, a paved pathway leads you to the architectural ruins. There are ruins that are often overlooked like a stadium, the church of the Virgin Mary, and the bath-gymnasium complex with harbor Baths, harbor gymnasium, and athletic grounds.
The Stadium of Ephesus was used to host plays, gladiator fights, and feasts. It also has a biblical significance as it’s where St. Paul preached against the pagans.
The first-ever church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the church of Ephesus was built during the reign of Constantine. It’s often referred to as Double Church because of two separate sections – one for Mother Mary and the other for John the Apostle.
The Harbor Gymnasium aka the Gymnasium of Vedius is where the young men of Ephesus took part in mental and physical activities.
The Arcadian or Harbor Street
As you walk past the harbor baths, you’ll find yourself strolling the Arcadian, a well-preserved thoroughfare, once bustling with life, trodden by residents, sailors, merchants, and even the emperors, that offers a glimpse into the daily life and commerce of ancient times.
Lined with shops and galleries on either side, adorned with marble slabs, colonnades, and sculptures, and impressively lit – this storied street served as the gateway to the ancient city from the port.
The Great Theatre of Ephesus
A short stroll along the Arcadian leads you to the grandeur of the Great Theater, where history comes alive before your eyes. It’s one of the most popular Ephesus sights!
Imagine the crowd’s roar as this colossal amphitheater, with a seating capacity of up to 25,000 spectators, hosted dramatic performances, gladiatorial contests, and public gatherings.
Climb the steps to the top tiers, and be rewarded with panoramic views of the ancient city below.
The theater’s excellent acoustics allow you to stand at the center of the stage and hear your voice carry throughout the vast space—a testament to the architectural genius of ancient Ephesus.
Even today Ephesus hosts classical concerts in the Great Theatre, Celsus Library, and Odeon. The list of celebrity guests who have graced these concerts includes Elton John, Bryan Adams, Nikki Yanofsky, Diana Ross, Sting, and the like.
The Marble Street
As you exit the Great Theatre, you’ll set foot on Marble Road.
Stretching from the Great Theatre to the Celsus Library, it’s a portion of the holy road or the sacred way that leads past Panayir dagi to the Temple of Artemis.
Commercial Agora
The Commercial Agora was the bustling center of commerce in the ancient city where merchants and traders came to exchange goods, ideas, and culture.
It was also home to the second-largest slave market in the ancient world.
The Agora’s layout, carefully designed to accommodate the flow of people and goods, reflects the city’s commitment to efficiency and organization.
Almost in ruins now, you can only imagine the dynamic atmosphere that once pulsed through the historic corridors of the marketplace – the labyrinth of stalls, shops, and porticoes, each brimming with a colorful array of goods and wares, from textiles to spices, and pottery to precious gems, and the lively chatter of merchants haggling over prices.
Brothel
On the junction of Curetes Street and Marble Street, there’s a peristyle house believed to be a brothel as excavations discovered a statue of Priapus with an oversize phallus that’s displayed in Ephesus Museum now.
During those times, letters from the emperor or advertisements were carved into the blocks of the road for people to read and know.
You can witness one such carving etched into the stone pavement along Marble Street – possibly, the first-ever advertisement in history. The ad presumably shows a way to the brothel and a library.
Carved into the stone are images and symbols such as a footprint, a wallet, a woman, a heart, and a library – each carving implying a certain meaning. You can read the interpretations here.
Library of Celsus
Of all the archaeological remains from antiquity, the Library of Celsus is the most iconic and impressive structure in the ancient city of Ephesus. It still preserves its glory and grandeur, even after 2000 years.
This two-story structure once housed thousands of scrolls, making it one of the most significant libraries of the ancient world. Interestingly, the library became the final resting place of Celsus.
The imposing facade adorned with intricate sculptures and reliefs will leave you awestruck as you approach.
Pause to appreciate the splendid craftsmanship that went into its construction, with statues representing wisdom, knowledge, and other virtues personifying Celsus adorning the niches.
The Library of Celsus is a true masterpiece, a fusion of culture and intellect that continues to inspire awe and wonder.
As one of the most photographed places in Turkey, everyone wants a picture of it and a picture with it – meaning it remains super crowded all the time, so much so that people jostle for space, forget the pictures.
If you want to capture dreamy Instagram-worthy photographs, make sure you visit the library early in the morning before the tour buses arrive or late in the afternoon when the tour buses depart.
Gate of Mazeus and Mithridates
Attached to the Celsus Library towards the right is the Gate of Mazeus and Mythridates, named after slaves and later, officials of Augustus who constructed the gate for the emporer to reciprocate the gratitude for their freedom.
Terrace Houses
It’s time to venture into the opulent world of the Terrace Houses aka the Slope Houses or the Houses of the Rich or Yamaç Evleri, where the affluent residents of ancient Ephesus once lived.
These meticulously restored (2 out of 6 have been restored) luxury Roman villas offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the ancient city’s elite.
As you wander through the signed walkways leading to different rooms, from living spaces to kitchens, and marvel at the craftsmanship that has withstood the test of time, take out time to pause and admire the exquisite mosaics, frescoes, and intricate architectural details that adorned these luxurious abodes.
Some of the most-photographed mosaics include those of Dionysus, Ariadne, Medusa, and the Lion.
Scholastica Baths
Originally built in the 1st century AD, these Roman baths were restored in the 4th century AD and named after the lady called Scholastica who funded the restoration works.
Her dilapidated statue still lies at the eastern entrance of the baths.
The space wasn’t only used to bathe but also to socialize and discuss current affairs.
Ephesus Latrina (Public Toilets)
Part of Scholastica Baths, the latrines were the communal or public toilets to use after paying the entrance fee.
Alytarch’s Stoa and the Mosaic-Paved Sidewalk
Right across from Terrace Houses are the ruins of Alytarch’s Stoa.
It’s a row of twelve shops or workshops with frescoed walls, built of brick, fronted by a colonnade, supported by columns, and mosaic-paved sidewalks (on each side of Curetes Street) highlighting geometric and plant motifs for pedestrians.
Temple of Hadrian
One of the best-preserved structures on Curetes Street, the Temple of Hadrian is dedicated to the Roman Emperor Hadrian, one of the Five Good Emperors.
The facade is adorned with elaborate reliefs depicting the emperor’s achievements and various mythological scenes.
Each column reveals a unique tale, from the foundation myth of Ephesus to the legendary hero Heracles.
Fountain of Trajan
The Fountain of Trajan, dedicated to the Roman Emperor Trajan, stands as a striking example of Roman hydraulic architecture.
Water, a precious resource in the arid climate of Anatolia, was channeled into the fountain through an intricate system of aqueducts, ensuring a continuous flow that quenched the thirst of both the residents and the city’s visitors.
The elaborate statues of Dionysus, Satyr, Aphrodite, and the family of the Emperor that graced the space then are now exhibited in Ephesus Museum.
Curetes Street
Running between the Library of Celsus and Hercules Gate, Curates Street is one of the three main streets in Ephesus.
As you stroll along this ancient avenue lined with elegant columns, statues, and remnants of grand structures, imagine the bustling activity that once defined daily life in Ephesus.
Hercules Gate
Located towards the southern end of Curetes Street, the Hercules Gate looks impressive, even in ruins.
You can only witness the two remaining columns today that feature the sculpture of Heracles wearing the skin of the Nemean Lion depicting power and strength.
Legend has it that visitors who manage to touch both pillars are bestowed with power and strength. I did!
Domitian Square
As soon as you exit the Gate of Hercules, you’ll step into the huge square, Domitian Square dominated by the Temple of Domitian that gave it its name. The square is surrounded by several structures of historic importance such as the Nike Sculpture, Memmius Monument, Roman Alter, and Pollio Fountain.
Nike Sculpture
On the west side of Domitian Square, a marble relief of the Greek goddess of victory, Nike is one of the most loved attractions in Ephesus.
The winged Nike holds out a laurel wreath in her left hand and carries a palm branch in her right hand.
The relief once graced one of the spandrels of the arch over the Heracles Gate and it’s likely that the opposite spandrel too had a replica of the relief.
