Discover Ephesus

Ancient city of grandeur. Walk in the footsteps of Romans, explore the Library of Celsus, and imagine life in a bustling ancient city.

✨ Why Visit Ephesus, Turkey?

Ephesus is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, offering a window into the grandeur of Roman, Greek, and early Christian civilizations. Once a bustling port and cultural hub, Ephesus is now a magnificent open-air museum of marble streets, temples, theatres, and sacred sites. Walk in the footsteps of emperors, philosophers, and apostles as you explore the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis — one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Whether you're a history lover, spiritual traveler, or archaeology enthusiast, Ephesus is a must-see gem of Western Anatolia.

🌤️ Best Time to Visit Ephesus, Turkey

The best time to visit Ephesus is in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when temperatures are pleasant for walking and exploring outdoors. Summer (July–August) can be very hot, with little shade in the ruins, so plan early morning visits. Winter is mild and less crowded, but some facilities may have limited hours.

🧭 Top Things to Do in Ephesus, Turkey

🏛️ Walk through the Library of Celsus, an iconic two-story Roman masterpiece and the symbol of Ephesus
🎭 Sit in the Great Theatre, which once held 25,000 spectators and still hosts performances today
🕍 Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred pilgrimage site believed to be her final home
🌟 Explore the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
🚶 Follow the Marble Road to see ancient shops, baths, mosaics, and public toilets
🏛️ Admire the Terrace Houses, beautifully preserved Roman villas with frescoes and mosaics
🕊️ Stop at the Basilica of St. John, where the apostle is said to be buried

💸 Local Currency in Ephesus, Turkey

The official currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit and debit cards are accepted at nearby hotels, shops, and restaurants in Selçuk or Kuşadası, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for entrance fees, local markets, and tips. ATMs are available in surrounding towns.

🚖 Transportation to Ephesus, Turkey

Ephesus is located near Selçuk, about 1 hour from Izmir (ADB Airport) and 25 minutes from Kuşadası, a popular cruise port. You can reach it by train, rental car, bus, or guided tour. From Selçuk, Ephesus is just a short taxi ride or 30-minute walk. Day tours also operate from Izmir and Kuşadası.

💡 Travel Tips for Visiting Ephesus, Turkey

✅ Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
✅ Wear sturdy shoes — paths are uneven, and there's a lot of walking
✅ Bring sun protection — hats, sunscreen, and water are essential
✅ Purchase a Museum Pass Aegean if you plan to visit other ancient sites nearby
✅ Consider hiring a licensed guide or audio tour for rich historical context

🏞️ Top Day Trips from Ephesus, Turkey

🌊 Kuşadası – A seaside resort town with beaches, bazaars, and portside dining
🏞️ Pamukkale & Hierapolis – Famous white travertine terraces and ancient thermal spa ruins (2.5–3 hours away)
🏰 Şirince Village – A charming wine-producing hill village known for cobblestone streets and fruit wines
🕌 İzmir – A bustling coastal city with culture, food, and history just an hour away
🌿 Dilek Peninsula-Büyük Menderes Delta National Park – Perfect for hiking and picnicking with sea views

📸 Instagram Moments from Ephesus, Turkey

📷 Striking photo of the Library of Celsus façade
📸 A sweeping view of the Great Theatre from the stage
🌟 Golden hour light filtering over ancient marble columns
🕊️ Peaceful olive trees surrounding the House of the Virgin Mary
📲 Follow us on Instagram: @intoholidays

📬 Plan Your Ephesus Historical Escape

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