Ephesus
Ephesus
Last updated 2026-10-29
By Global Travel Guide Editorial Team
Introduction
The city prospered as a port until the harbour silted up; the ruins now lie inland. The Library of Celsus is the best-known facade, and the Great Theatre held about 24,000 people. The Terrace Houses need a separate ticket and show how wealthy Ephesians lived. The site is about 3 km from Selçuk; minibuses and taxis run from town. Go at opening to avoid heat and cruise groups; the site has little shade.
Ticket Price
Foreign adult EUR 40 (≈ USD 45), including the Experience Museum and audio guide; the Terrace Houses need a separate EUR 15 ticket. Pay in Turkish lira.
Opening Hours
Summer (Apr-Oct) 8:00-19:00; winter (Nov-Mar) 8:00-17:00; last entry about 1 hour before closing.
Transportation
3 km from Selçuk; minibus or taxi from the town centre, or about 1 hour by car from Izmir airport.
Best Season
Apr-May and Sep-Oct for mild weather; Jul-Aug is hot and crowded.
Pro Tip: Enter at opening and see the terrace houses
Local Tips You'd Only Learn After Visiting
The details official guides skip — save time, avoid crowds, and get better photos.
1
Enter at opening and see the terrace houses Ephesus is hot and exposed by mid-morning. Start at the upper gate, walk down through the main street, and add the terrace houses for the preserved frescoes.
Member-Only Tips
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Frequently Asked Questions3 questions
It was built in 114-117 AD as a library and mausoleum for the Roman senator Celsus, and its restored facade is the most photographed monument in Ephesus. It held thousands of scrolls.
The theatre was built into Mount Pion and held about 25,000 spectators, making it one of the largest in the Roman world. It is still used for performances.
Yes if you want the frescoes and mosaics of the wealthy Roman houses; it is a separate ticket and a covered, stepped route.