Visiting Ephesus: A Mesmerizing Photo Journey And Insider Tips
Introduction to Ephesus
Have you ever stood in a place so old, so well-preserved, that you could almost hear the footsteps of people who lived there thousands of years ago? That’s exactly how I felt when visiting Ephesus. This ancient city in Turkey, a UNESCO heritage site, is packed with jaw-dropping ruins—massive theaters, grand libraries, and streets paved with marble that’s been worn smooth over time.
This page may contain affiliate links, which means if you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I will never recommend products and services I don’t trust or haven’t used. For more information, please read my disclosure.
If you love history, photography, or just exploring incredible places, Ephesus is a must-visit. But let’s be real—there are some things I wish I had known before going. How do you get there without spending a fortune? What’s the best way to avoid crowds? Which spots are the most photogenic?
In this post, I’ll take you on a photo-filled journey through Ephesus while sharing insider tips to make your visit smooth and stress-free. From how to get to Ephesus from Izmir on a budget to must-see highlights, I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re planning your trip or just dreaming of visiting one day, this guide will help you see Ephesus at its best. Let’s dive in!
I began my journey in Izmir, a vibrant city on Turkey’s Aegean coast. Opting for the most economical route, I took a train from Izmir’s Basmane Station to Selçuk. The ticket was a mere 100 Turkish Liras, and the 1.5-hour ride was both comfortable and scenic. Upon arriving in Selçuk, I decided to take a taxi to Ephesus. After a bit of friendly negotiation, the driver agreed to a fare of 200 Liras. This choice allowed me to enter through the upper gate of Ephesus, making it easier to explore the site downhill.
I love helping you plan your dream trips. If you need any of these services, please consider booking them through my affiliate links. It won’t cost you anything extra but will help me keep the website running.
🏠 Find the perfect place to stay with Booking.com or Hotels.com
✈️ Get the cheapest flights with Skyscanner
🚣 Book your favorite activities with Viator or Get Your Guide
📱Stay connected with an eSIM from Airalo
Thank you very much for your support!
Things to See in Ephesus
Library of Celsus
When I first visited Ephesus, I was amazed by the Library of Celsus. I had seen pictures before, but nothing prepared me for the sight of its towering, intricately carved facade glowing in the sunlight. It’s hard to believe that this was once a working library, built in 117 AD, and holding over 12,000 scrolls.
Even more intriguing? It was built as a mausoleum for the Roman senator Tiberius Julius Celsus, who is buried beneath it.
Curetes Street
The Curetes Street was once the main thoroughfare of Ephesus, dating back to the Hellenistic period and later rebuilt in the 1st century AD. Lined with fountains, statues, and important buildings, it connected some of the city’s most important sites, including the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Hadrian.
The Great Theater
I had read about the Great Theater, but seeing it in person was something else. Originally built in the 3rd century BC and later expanded in the 1st century AD, this massive structure could hold 25,000 people—that’s nearly half a modern stadium’s capacity! It wasn’t just for performances; it hosted political gatherings and even gladiatorial contests.
Unfortunately, during my last visit in January 2025 it was closed for restoration, so I couldn’t get inside. The picture is from a previous visit of mine.
Terrace Houses
The Terrace Houses were built in the 1st century BC. These homes belonged to Ephesus’ wealthiest citizens. They had advanced heating systems, private baths, and stunning mosaics that are still intact.
Terrace House 1, which you can see from beside Curetes Street, is fascinating, but the real treasure is Terrace House 2, protected under a glass roof. The frescoes are so well-preserved that they still burst with color. It costs €15 extra to visit.
Temple of Domitian
Built in the 1st Century AD during the Flavian dynasty, the Temple of Domitian was one of the first in Ephesus dedicated to an emperor. Though partially in ruins, its large platform and monumental altar emphasize its significance in imperial worship.
Nymphaeum of Trajan
The Nymphaeum of Trajan, constructed in the early 2nd century AD, was a stunning fountain built to honor Emperor Trajan. Even though only parts of it remain, you can still see marble columns and a partially preserved statue of the emperor, giving a glimpse of how important public water systems were in Roman cities.
The Baths of Scholastica
These public baths, constructed in the 1st Century AD, were an integral part of Roman daily life. They included hot and cold rooms, exercise areas, and communal spaces. The baths’ sophisticated heating systems and large communal halls reflect the Romans’ engineering skills.
The Latrine
One of the most amusing spots in my visit to Ephesus was the public latrine, built in the 1st century AD as part of the Baths of Scholastica. These weren’t just functional—they were a social space where people would sit side by side, doing their business while chatting about daily life. Romans really took communal living to the next level!
Hadrian’s Gate
Hadrian’s Gate is basically Ephesus rolling out the red carpet for Emperor Hadrian when he visited in 130 AD. It’s a striking triple-arched gateway, and there’s even a legend that the Queen of Sheba once walked through it on her way to see King Solomon. True or not, it definitely makes the place feel even more legendary!
Inscriptions Museum
The inscriptions housed in this museum span from the 3rd Century BC to the 3rd Century AD. These carved texts provide invaluable insights into Ephesus’ history, including details about governance, commerce, and everyday life.
Ephesus Experience Museum
After spending hours exploring the ruins, I wanted to get a clearer picture of what Ephesus actually looked like in its prime. That’s where the Ephesus Experience Museum came in. This isn’t your typical museum with dusty artifacts—it’s an interactive digital reconstruction that shows how the city once looked, bringing the ruins to life in vivid detail.
As I watched the animations, I could see Ephesus as it was 2,000 years ago—its streets bustling with merchants, the grand Library of Celsus fully intact, and the Great Theater packed with spectators. It gave me a whole new appreciation for what I had just walked through.
And the best part? It’s included with the Ephesus entry ticket, so there’s no reason to skip it.
Church of Mary
A short distance away, near the ruins, stands the Church of Mary, built in the 4th century AD. It is one of the earliest Christian basilicas dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It’s easy to walk past it without realizing its significance, but this is where the Third Ecumenical Council was held in 431 AD—a major event in early Christianity where leaders officially declared Mary as the Mother of God.
Standing in the remains of this ancient church, I imagined the intense debates that once took place here. Even though the walls are partially crumbled, the site still carries an air of importance.
The Temple of Hadrian
Walking along Curetes Street, I came across the Temple of Hadrian, built in 117 AD. Compared to some of the larger ruins in Ephesus, this one is small, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in detail.
The reliefs carved into the temple’s arch depict the mythical founding of Ephesus by Androclos, the legendary prince who followed a prophecy involving a boar and a fish to establish the city.
Seeing the intricate carvings up close, still incredibly well-preserved after nearly 2,000 years, made me pause in admiration.
Prytaneion
As I walked through the ruins of the Prytaneion, built in the 1st century BC, I realized this was where some of the city’s most important moments took place. This was the administrative center of Ephesus, where city leaders held ceremonies, honored important figures, and made major decisions.
One of the most fascinating parts? This was also the home of the sacred flame of Hestia, which was never allowed to go out. The flame symbolized the unity of Ephesus, and it had to be constantly maintained by the city’s priests.
The Agora
If there was one place in ancient Ephesus where you’d hear the hum of everyday life, it was the Agora. Originally built in the 3rd century BC during the Hellenistic period, then expanded by the Romans, this was the city’s main marketplace and political hub.
Standing in the open square, I imagined merchants selling spices and silk, philosophers debating under the porticoes, and crowds gathering to hear the latest news. Even though it’s now silent, the remains of shops, columns, and statues still make it easy to picture the energy this place once had.
The Bouleuterion (Odeon)
While the Great Theater was built for massive crowds, the Bouleuterion, built in the 2nd century AD, was where the city council met to discuss laws and policies. It was a more intimate space, almost like a mini-theater, with well-preserved stone seating and a stage.
I sat down for a moment, imagining the political debates that once took place here. It wasn’t hard to picture the city’s leaders arguing about taxes, trade, and city affairs—because let’s be honest, politics hasn’t changed much in 2,000 years!
The Gate of Mazeus and Mithridates
Near the Library of Celsus, I stopped to admire the Gate of Mazeus and Mithridates, built in 40 AD. At first glance, it looks like another beautifully carved entrance, but the story behind it is what really grabbed my attention.
Mazeus and Mithridates were former slaves who gained their freedom and went on to serve Emperor Augustus. In recognition of their service, they were honored with this gate, a symbol of their incredible rise in Roman society.
The Basilica of St. John
A little outside of Ephesus, the Basilica of St. John, built in the 6th century AD under Emperor Justinian I, is believed to be the final resting place of St. John the Apostle. Even if you’re not religious, this place is worth a visit.
Hidden Gem: The Ancient Harbor Road
One of my favorite discoveries was the Ancient Harbor Road, built in the 1st century AD. Back when Ephesus was a major port city, this road connected it to the Aegean Sea, making it a lifeline for trade and travel.
Now, it’s a peaceful, almost forgotten part of the ruins, lined with remains of warehouses and monuments. It’s a quieter, less-visited part of Ephesus.
How to Get to Ephesus
From Istanbul to Ephesus: Travel Options
- By Flight: There are no direct flights from Istanbul to Ephesus. Fly from Istanbul to Adnan Menderes Airport in Izmir, the closest airport to Ephesus. The flight takes about an hour, followed by a one-hour drive or train ride from Izmir Airport to Selçuk.
- By Train: There is no direct train connection between Istanbul and Izmir. You can take a ferry from Yenikapi in Istanbul to Bandirma. The ferry ride takes an hour and a half and is followed by a 6-hour train ride from Bandirma to Izmir Basmane train station. Then connect to a regional train heading to Selçuk for another hour and a half train ride. Not the most time-efficient route, I would say.
- By Bus: Long-distance buses from Istanbul to Selçuk are affordable and comfortable. The distance from Istanbul to Ephesus is around 340 miles or 550 km. Though the journey usually takes 8 hours, it can be the cheapest way to get from Istanbul to Ephesus.
My Experience Visiting Ephesus by Train
During my visit, I opted to travel independently by train to Ephesus from Izmir. The distance from Izmir to Ephesus is around 50 miles or 80 km.
I took a regional train from Izmir Basmane to Selçuk. The journey was smooth and affordable. In fact, by train is the most cost-effective way to travel from Izmir to Ephesus.
Once I reached Selçuk, the ruins of Ephesus were just a short taxi ride away. Traveling by train gave me the flexibility to explore at my own pace. If you’re a fan of independent travel, I highly recommend this option!
🏨Click on the map to find your hotel in Izmir!
Closest Airport to Ephesus
The nearest airport is Adnan Menderes Airport in Izmir. From there, taxis, rental cars, or trains can take you to Selçuk.
💡Insider Tip: Renting a car allows flexibility to explore nearby attractions.
Day Trips and Tours in Ephesus
Day Trip from Istanbul to Ephesus
Short on time? Many travelers opt for a day trip to Ephesus Turkey from Istanbul. With an early morning flight to Izmir and an evening return, you can explore the site’s highlights in a single day.
Guided Tours vs. Exploring Solo
Guided Tours: These offer expert insights and often include transportation. Perfect for first-time visitors.
Solo Exploration: Going at your own pace is ideal for independent travelers. Audio guides are available at the ticket booth.
Booking a Tour to Ephesus
Planning to visit Ephesus without the hassle of logistics? Consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation, entrance fees, and a professional guide.
What to See Around Ephesus
The Temple of Artemis
Although only one column remains of this former Wonder of the Ancient World, the site’s historical importance makes it worth a visit.
House of the Virgin Mary
A short drive from Ephesus, this peaceful sanctuary is believed to be where Mary spent her final years. It’s a significant pilgrimage site.
Selçuk
This charming town is home to the Ephesus Museum, the Isa Bey Mosque, and a lively weekly market. It’s an excellent place to unwind after exploring the ruins.
Practical Tips for Visiting Ephesus
How Long to Spend in Ephesus
Plan for at least 3-4 hours to see the main site. If you’re exploring nearby attractions, allocate a full day.
Best Times to Visit
Spring (April-June): Pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Fall (September-October): Mild temperatures and vibrant scenery.
What to Pack
Sturdy walking shoes for uneven terrain.
A hat, sunscreen, and water if visiting in summer.
A light jacket for cooler months.
Visiting Ephesus on Your Own
Independent Exploration
Visiting Ephesus Turkey without a guide is entirely doable. The site is well-signposted, making it easy to navigate.
Is Ephesus Worth Visiting Solo?
Absolutely. Whether you’re marveling at the ruins of Ephesus or capturing stunning photos, solo travelers will find plenty to enjoy.
Don’t leave Turkey without taking home a piece of its rich culture. Explore my guide on the best souvenirs to buy in Turkey to find inspiration for memorable gifts.
FAQ
One day is sufficient to explore the main site, but consider two days if you plan to visit nearby attractions like Selçuk and the Temple of Artemis.
It’s approximately 500 km (310 miles). A flight to Izmir makes the journey quick and easy.
The Adnan Menderes Airport in Izmir is the closest, with convenient connections to Selçuk.
Final Thoughts
Ephesus is a UNESCO heritage site packed with history, stunning ruins, and plenty of photo-worthy spots. Whether you explore solo or join a tour, it’s a destination you don’t want to miss. Plan your trip, pack your essentials, and get ready to dive into one of Turkey’s most fascinating ancient cities!
When visiting Ephesus, take your time. Wander through the ruins, soak in the details, and imagine what life was like in this once-thriving city. Ephesus isn’t just a place you check off a list—it’s a place you really experience. And trust me, it’s one you won’t forget.
Have you been to Ephesus, or is it on your must-visit list? I’d love to hear what you think! Please drop a comment below. And if you enjoyed this post, share it with a friend who’d love to explore Ephesus too!
