Ancient City of Ephesus

Introducing the Ancient City of Ephesus

The ancient city of Ephesus, located near the Aegean coast, was the capital of the province of Asia. Only a portion of the ruins have been excavated, but what has been discovered reveals the city's original grandeur and prosperity, earning it the nickname "Asia's first and largest metropolis." It boasted a Temple of Artemis, a library, a theater, and even several large baths. Unfortunately, only a few unremarkable columns remain of the Temple of Artemis, but the legends surrounding it are still worth a visit.

The annual camel fighting festival is also held here.

Catholics believe this is the final home of the Virgin Mary.

Climate and best time to travel

The climate is Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters.

Best to visit in winter.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 2 hours.

The former residence of the Virgin Mary, the Temple of Artemis, etc. are all places to visit. They all have their own stories. If you are interested, you can learn about the background stories in advance before visiting.

Nearby attractions: Selcuk town, St. John's Church, Temple of Artemis, etc.

Tickets

15 Turkish Lira

Attraction opening hours

8:30-17:30 (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)

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Most Popular FAQs for Ancient City of Ephesus

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Ancient City of Ephesus, once a major trading and religious hub, was home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis. The city was also the location of the famous Library of Celsus and a key site for early Christianity, with the Apostle Paul preaching here. Ephesus is renowned for its well-preserved ancient ruins, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Turkey’s top archaeological destinations.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Ephesus is located near the modern town of Selçuk, approximately 3 kilometers from the town center. The easiest way to reach Ephesus is by taxi or bus from Selçuk, or by renting a car. It is also accessible by train from major Turkish cities like Izmir. For a more guided experience, organized tours from Selçuk or Izmir are available.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Ephesus is open every day from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with longer hours during the peak tourist season (April to October). The best time to visit is early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds, particularly in summer. The spring and autumn months offer more pleasant weather for exploring the ruins.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee to Ephesus is around 100 Turkish Lira (approximately $5 USD). Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online for convenience, especially during peak season. Additional fees may apply for accessing specific areas like the Terrace Houses.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during the high tourist season (April to October) to avoid long lines. You can book tickets online up to a week in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Ephesus, including the major landmarks like the Library of Celsus, Temple of Artemis, and Terrace Houses, you will need around 2 to 3 hours. If you're a history enthusiast and want to explore in more detail, you may want to allow up to 4 hours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Library of Celsus – One of the most iconic structures in Ephesus, famous for its ornate facade.
• The Theatre – An impressive ancient structure with a capacity for 25,000 spectators, where performances and events were held.
• The Temple of Artemis – Although in ruins, the site of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World remains significant.
• Terrace Houses – The well-preserved Roman villas with beautiful mosaics and frescoes.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided tours are available in several languages, including English, German, and Turkish. Audio guides are also available for rent at the entrance, and they offer commentary in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• From the Theatre, you can capture a panoramic view of the entire archaeological site.
• The Library of Celsus provides a stunning backdrop for photos, particularly at sunrise or sunset.
• In the Terrace Houses, the mosaics and frescoes offer unique opportunities for close-up photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit at the main entrance and head straight to the Theatre. Then, make your way to the Library of Celsus and explore the surrounding streets. Don’t miss the Terrace Houses on the way, and finish your visit at the Temple of Artemis. This route covers the main highlights and is easy to follow.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Ephesus does not offer night visits, as it is an open-air archaeological site. However, special tours, including sunset tours, may be available through some tour operators.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Ephesus can get crowded, especially during the summer months (June to August). The least crowded times to visit are early in the morning or later in the afternoon on weekdays, especially in the off-peak seasons (autumn and spring).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are toilets available at the entrance and near the main attractions. A small shop near the entrance sells water, snacks, and souvenirs. For more dining options, there are restaurants in the nearby town of Selçuk.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

While Ephesus is an ancient site with uneven terrain, some areas are accessible for elderly and disabled visitors. Wheelchairs can be rented, and there are paved paths to key areas, although the site’s uneven ground can be challenging in places.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted at the entrance and in nearby shops, though credit cards and mobile payments are also accepted in some areas, especially at larger stores and restaurants.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Ejder Restaurant – A popular spot for Turkish cuisine in Selçuk, offering traditional dishes like kebabs.
• Artemis Restaurant – A great place to enjoy a meal with a view of the Temple of Artemis.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, many restaurants in Selçuk offer vegetarian and vegan options, as well as halal food, in line with traditional Turkish cuisine.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotel Bella – Located just a short distance from Ephesus, offering comfortable rooms and a pool.
• Akanthus Hotel – A modern hotel in Selçuk, close to Ephesus, with easy access to the archaeological site.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The House of Virgin Mary – A sacred site located on Mount Koressos, just a short drive from Ephesus.
• St. John's Basilica – A beautiful historic site where St. John is believed to be buried.
• The Archaeological Museum of Ephesus – A museum in Selçuk showcasing artifacts from the site.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance and in Selçuk. Popular souvenirs include traditional Turkish carpets, jewelry, pottery, and replicas of ancient artifacts from Ephesus.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi – Available at the site entrance for easy access to nearby areas.
• Bus – Buses from Selçuk run frequently to Izmir and other surrounding towns.
• Car rental – Renting a car is an excellent option for visiting nearby attractions or continuing your trip to the Aegean region.