Ephesus (Efes) is an ancient Greek and Roman city near Selçuk in Turkey's İzmir Province that once served as the Roman capital of the province of Asia and grew into one of the Mediterranean's largest cities, with a population above 200,000. Its icons are the reconstructed two-story facade of the Library of Celsus and a Great Theatre that seated 25,000; the site was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015. As of 2026 it is open every day of the year, the immersive Ephesus Experience Museum (digital show) is included with the standard ticket, and night visits run seasonally from June through early November. Allow at least 3 to 4 hours to walk the full marble-paved city.
Library of Celsus - the 2nd-century building whose towering two-story facade has been re-erected, making it the most iconic and photographed spot in Ephesus
Great Theatre - a Hellenistic and Roman theatre seating 25,000, traditionally cited as the place where the Apostle Paul preached to the Ephesians
Curetes Street and the Temple of Hadrian - a marble avenue lined with temples, shops and statues, crowned by an elegant Corinthian arch bearing a relief of Medusa
Terrace Houses (Yamaç Evleri) - a roofed complex of aristocratic homes, requiring a separate ticket, with remarkable frescoes, mosaics and underfloor heating
Nearby Temple of Artemis site and the House of the Virgin Mary - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and a pilgrimage chapel, both easily combined with an Ephesus visit
Good to know
SeasonSummer (June-August) brings intense heat with almost no shade. Bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water, and visit early morning or late afternoon to escape both the heat and the crowds.
SafetyThe marble streets and ancient steps are polished and slippery. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, and do not climb on or lean against the ruins.
RulesThe Terrace Houses need a separate add-on ticket (around €15 in 2026) and are not covered by the Museum Pass Türkiye (Müzekart). Flying drones and touching or removing artifacts are prohibited.
CautionWatch out for unlicensed 'guides' near the gates, overpriced taxis, and fake tickets or bogus antiques. Buy tickets only at the official box office or via muze.gov.tr.
MannersIf you combine the visit with the House of the Virgin Mary, dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) as it is a religious pilgrimage site. Please avoid feeding or handling the many stray cats among the ruins.
SafetyKeep an eye out for pickpockets in the crowded areas in front of the Library and Great Theatre. Wear your bag in front and keep valuables on your person.
Practical info
The site lies about 3 km from central Selçuk, reachable by dolmuş (minibus) or taxi from Selçuk, or by transfer from Kuşadası port for cruise passengers. There are two gates, upper and lower, so entering at one and exiting at the other makes for an easy downhill walk. It is generally open 08:00-19:00 in summer (April-October) and 08:30-17:00 in winter (November-March), with the ticket office closing one hour before, but always confirm the latest fees, hours and night-visit schedule on the official site before you go.
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