Cheapest Way to Get from Izmir to Ephesus in 2025

Izmir is a lively city on Turkey’s Aegean coast, around 500 km away from Istanbul. It is the perfect starting point for exploring the region. Just an hour and a half away is Ephesus, a must-see destination with its stunning ancient ruins like the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis. If you’re traveling on a budget in Turkey or willing to visit Ephesus on your own, you might be wondering about the cheapest way to get from Izmir to Ephesus. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Given the high entry fee to Ephesus, which is EUR 40, it’s even more important to find a cheap way to get from Izmir to Ephesus.

The iconic Library of Celsus in Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman ruins near Selçuk, Turkey, a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
The iconic Library of Celsus in Ephesus

In January 2025, I made this trip myself and found a surprisingly simple and affordable way to get there. Whether you’re a backpacker or just trying to save a bit, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. By the end of this post, you’ll have a step-by-step plan, practical tips, and the most up-to-date information to make your journey easy and cheap.

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Take the Train: The Cheapest Way to Get from Izmir to Ephesus

Izmir Basmane Train Station, the main departure point for affordable TCDD regional trains to Selçuk and the Ephesus Archaeological Site, located in the heart of Izmir, Turkey.
Izmir Basmane Train Station

Where to Get the Train to Ephesus in Izmir

The cheapest way to get from Izmir to Ephesus is by train. Trains are operated by TCDD and depart from Basmane Train Station, conveniently located in the center of Izmir. I found out that the trains going to Selcuk usually depart from platform 1, making it easy to find your departure point.

How to Buy Train Tickets to Ephesus

Ticket booth at Izmir Basmane Train Station, where travelers can buy tickets for the cheap and convenient train to Selçuk, the gateway to Ephesus Archaeological Site.
Ticket booth at Izmir Basmane Train Station

First, I needed a ticket to Selçuk as it is the closest city to Ephesus. I didn’t buy my train ticket in advance, as it can be easily purchased at the station before departure.

However, avoid going at the last minute. The ticket purchase process was somewhat slow. I was asked to show my passport and the lady in the ticket booth filled in some of my passport details before issuing the ticket. So, be sure to BRING YOUR PASSPORT! 

Tickets can also be bought online through the official TCDD website. There’s no need to print them, as the ticket’s QR code can be scanned directly from your mobile device.

Izmir to Selçuk train schedules for January 2025, showing departure times, travel durations, and ticket prices at 100 Turkish Liras per trip, available from TCDD.
Izmir to Selçuk train schedule

Train Ticket Prices from Izmir to Selçuk

Train ticket for travel from Izmir Basmane to Selçuk on the Güller Ekspresi, showing a fare of 100 Turkish Liras, with departure time at 10:00 AM, January 2025.
Train ticket for travel from Izmir to Selçuk, showing a fare of 100 Turkish Liras

While Google Maps showed prices from 300 to 520 Turkish Liras for the train ride from Izmir to Selcuk, I paid 100 Turkish Liras one way, which is approximately $2.80 USD or €2.65 Euros, making it the most budget-friendly choice. You can see the price in the picture of my train ticket and the date I traveled, Jan 16th, 2025.

Selçuk to Izmir train schedules for January 2025, showing departure times, travel durations, and ticket prices at 100 Turkish Liras per trip, available from TCDD.
Selçuk to Izmir train schedule

What to Expect on the Train Ride to Ephesus

The train ride to Selçuk, the closest town to Ephesus, took about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The journey was comfortable, though the train was not spotlessly clean. There were route information screens on the train, but they were out of order during my trip. However, the stations were clearly announced in both Turkish and English, so it was easy to know when to get off.

Interior of a TCDD train traveling from Izmir to Selçuk
Izmir – Ephesus train interior
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Getting from Selçuk Train Station to Ephesus Archaeological Site

Once I arrived at Selçuk train station, there were three options to get to the Ephesus Archaeological Site:

By Foot

If I didn’t mind a bit of exercise, I could walk to the site. The distance is approximately 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) and takes about 30-40 minutes.

By Minibus (Dolmuş)

Dolmuş (minibuses) run regularly between the Selçuk bus terminal and the Ephesus archaeological site. The Selçuk Bus Terminal has been permanently relocated at the beginning of 2025, so do not be misled by Google Maps. Have a look at the map below.

The minibuses to Pamucak go to Ephesus. They run from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm from April to the end of September and from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm from October to the end of March. The buses run every 15-20 minutes or when they are full.

The Ephesus stop (Efes in Turkish) will be announced by the driver. Note that the minibuses drop you off at the bottom gate of Ephesus, so you will have to walk uphill to explore the site.

The dolmuş fare is 40 Turkish Liras, which is a little more than 1 Euro or 1 USD.

TCDD regional train at Izmir Basmane Station, offering budget-friendly travel to Selçuk and Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
TCDD regional train at Izmir Basmane Station

By Taxi

Taxis were waiting at Selçuk train station. During my trip, the driver initially asked for 300 Turkish Liras one-way, but we agreed on 200 Liras, which is approximately $5.60 USD or €5.30 Euros. As it was two of us and we wanted to start exploring the Ephesus site from the top gate, we opted for the taxi.

The taxi drove us to the top gate of Ephesus, so we walked downhill (the lazy way!) while exploring the site. I found the taxi to be more convenient and time-saving.

FAQ

How long does it take to get from Izmir to Ephesus?

The journey from Izmir to Ephesus takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes by train, plus additional time to reach the Ephesus site from Selçuk train station. Allow 2 hours in total for the trip, depending on your chosen transfer option.

Is it safe to use public transport for this route?

Yes, it is safe to use public transport between Izmir and Ephesus. Trains and minibuses are commonly used by locals and tourists.

Can I buy tickets online?

Yes, train tickets can be purchased online through the official TCDD website or app. There’s no need to print them, as the QR code can be scanned directly from your mobile device.

What’s the best time of day to travel?

The best time to travel is in the morning to make the most of your day at Ephesus.

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Conclusion

Getting from Izmir to Ephesus is easier and more affordable than you might think! With train tickets as low as 100 Turkish Liras and flexible ways to reach the archaeological site from Selçuk, the cheapest way to get from Izmir to Ephesus is within easy reach for any traveler.

I personally found this journey both simple and enjoyable, and I hope this guide helps you plan yours. Ephesus is an incredible destination filled with history, and saving money on transportation means you can fully enjoy the experience. Have you made this trip before or have tips to share? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your story! Don’t forget to explore my other posts for more budget-friendly travel tips and inspiration for other destinations in Turkey, such as Cappadocia, Aspendos, Upper Mesopotamia, or Istanbul.

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