Explore the ancient city of Ephesus
Explore one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean. Walk through marble streets once trodden by Romans, see the iconic Library of Celsus, and stand in the vast Great Theatre that hosted gladiatorial games and public events. This guided or self-guided visit combines archaeology, history and spectacular photo opportunities near Selçuk, İzmir.
Location
Ancient City of Ephesus (Efes), Selçuk, İzmir, Turkey
Duration
Typical visit: 3–5 hours for the main site; 6–8 hours to include Terrace Houses, Ephesus Archaeological Museum in Selçuk, House of the Virgin Mary, and Basilica of St. John.
Best Time to Visit
April–June and September–October for mild weather and smaller crowds. Early morning visits (site opening) are ideal to avoid heat and peak tour groups in summer (July–Aug).
Pricing
Approximate entry fee: 200–400 TL for the main Ephesus site (prices vary by season and official updates). Terrace Houses and some special areas may require an additional ticket (~100–200 TL). The Museum Pass Türkiye (multi-day) covers Ephesus and nearby sites and can be cost-effective if visiting multiple museums/sites.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Library of Celsus — the iconic façade and photo spot
Great Theatre — seats up to 25,000; panoramic views of the ruins and surrounding hills
Curetes (Arcadian) Street — colonnaded street leading to the heart of the city
Terrace Houses — wealthy Roman houses with well-preserved mosaics and frescoes (separate ticket)
Temple of Hadrian & Odeon — richly decorated civic buildings
Roman Baths & Latrines — insight into daily public life
Basilica of St. John and House of the Virgin Mary — nearby early-Christian and Byzantine sites
Ephesus Archaeological Museum (Selçuk) — original statues and artifacts from the site
Itinerary
Arrival & ticketing
Arrive at the Selçuk or Kusadasi access point. Buy tickets or present Museum Pass. Aim to be at the gates at opening time to beat crowds and midday heat.
Walk Curetes Street to Library of Celsus
Start along the main marble thoroughfare, stop at shops and monuments on the way. Spend time photographing the Library façade.
Great Theatre & surrounding structures
Climb up for panoramic views and imagine ancient performances. Check restricted areas and follow signs.
Terrace Houses (optional - extra ticket)
Explore the well-preserved private houses and mosaics (note the additional admission fee).
Temple of Hadrian, Odeon, Roman Baths
Continue to smaller civic buildings and inspect carved details and reliefs.
Transfer to Selçuk: Ephesus Archaeological Museum / Lunch
Visit the museum to see artifacts removed from the site, then enjoy lunch in Selçuk.
Optional: House of the Virgin Mary & Basilica of St. John
Short drive up the hill to the House of the Virgin Mary (pilgrimage site) and the later Basilica of St. John for broader historical context.
Safety Requirements
Wear comfortable walking shoes — the site has uneven marble paving and steps.
Bring sun protection: hat, sunglasses and sunscreen (minimal shade across the site).
Stay hydrated — carry water, especially in summer months.
Watch your step on worn stones and steep stairways; use handrails where provided.
Follow local signage and park rules; some areas are restricted to protect fragile archaeology.
If joining a tour, follow the guide's instructions and maintain distance from conserved structures.
Tips
Arrive early to avoid crowds and heat — opening hour is best for photos and cooler temperatures.
Hire a licensed guide or use a reputable audio guide to get context — inscriptions, function of buildings, and restoration history come alive with commentary.
Buy the Museum Pass Türkiye if you plan to visit multiple archaeological sites and museums — it often saves money.
Combine nearby sites: House of the Virgin Mary, Basilica of St. John, Şirince village and the Ephesus Museum in Selçuk.
Bring a lightweight daypack with water, snacks, a camera, and layers (wind can pick up on the hilltop sections).
Respect the site: do not climb on ruins or remove anything. Flash photography restrictions may apply inside some areas.
Transportation: organized tours, local minibuses (dolmuş) from Selçuk, or private transfers from Kuşadası/İzmir are convenient. Allow time for parking and shuttle services if arriving by car.
