Ephesus
About Ephesus
Ephesus, located near the modern town of Selçuk in western Turkey, is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean. Once the capital of Roman Asia Minor and home to over 250,000 people, the city boasted the Temple of Artemis — one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today, its marble streets, grand library facade, and ancient theatre transport visitors 2,000 years back in time.
The surrounding Selçuk area adds depth with the alleged House of the Virgin Mary, the Basilica of St. John, and the excellent Ephesus Museum. The region is also the gateway to the Aegean wine country and the charming hill village of Şirince.
Useful links:
Quick Tips
- Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY). ATMs available in Selçuk. Some tour operators accept EUR.
- Transport: Regular trains connect Selçuk to İzmir (1 hour). Dolmuş minibuses go to nearby attractions. The ruins are a 10-minute walk from Selçuk center.
- Tipping: 10% at restaurants. Tip your guide at Ephesus if you hire one.
- Arrive early: Gates open at 8:00 AM. Arrive at opening to beat the cruise ship crowds that flood in from Kuşadası by 10:00 AM.
- Terrace Houses: The separate-ticket Terrace Houses inside Ephesus are absolutely worth the extra cost — they contain stunning mosaics and frescoes of wealthy Roman homes.
Interesting Places to Visit
Library of Celsus
The iconic facade of Ephesus, built in 117 AD as a monumental tomb and library that once held 12,000 scrolls. The two-story marble facade with its four statues representing Wisdom, Knowledge, Fate, and Intelligence is one of the most photographed ancient structures in the world.
Great Theatre
A massive Roman theatre carved into Mount Pion, seating 25,000 spectators. It hosted gladiatorial contests and plays, and is where the riot against St. Paul took place (Acts 19). The acoustics are still remarkable.
Temple of Artemis
One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Only a single reconstructed column remains today, standing in a marshy field near Selçuk. The Ephesus Museum has artifacts that convey the temple's former grandeur.
House of the Virgin Mary
A small stone chapel on Mount Koressos believed to be where the Virgin Mary spent her last years. Recognized by the Vatican as a pilgrimage site. A peaceful, tree-shaded setting with a wishing wall. 7 km from Ephesus.
Basilica of St. John
Built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century over the believed burial site of the Apostle John. The hilltop ruins offer wonderful views over Selçuk, the Temple of Artemis site, and the surrounding countryside.
Şirince Village
A charming hillside village 8 km from Selçuk, famous for its fruit wines, restored Greek stone houses, and olive oil. Once a Greek settlement, it now offers lovely cafés, wine tasting, and panoramic views of olive groves and orchards.
Ephesus Museum (Selçuk)
A compact but excellent museum housing artifacts from Ephesus including the famous Artemis statues, Roman-era medical instruments, and beautiful marble sculptures. Visit before or after the ruins to add context.
When to Visit
The Ephesus/Selçuk area has a Mediterranean climate — mild winters and hot, dry summers:
🌸 Spring (March – May)
Best season to visit. Mild (15–25°C), wildflowers surround the ruins, and crowds are manageable. Perfect for walking the ancient city without overheating.
- Comfortable temperatures for exploring
- Wildflowers among the ruins
- Fewer tour groups than summer
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Hot (30–40°C) with intense sun and no shade at the ruins. Peak cruise ship season means massive crowds. If visiting, arrive at opening or late afternoon.
- Very crowded from cruise ship passengers
- Bring hat, sunscreen, and lots of water
- Şirince village is a cooler retreat
🍂 Autumn (September – November)
Excellent (18–28°C in September, cooling to 12°C by November). Cruise ships thin out in October. Great light for photography. Wine and olive harvest season in Şirince.
- Fruit wine harvest in Şirince
- Golden autumn light on marble ruins
- Comfortable walking temperatures
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Cool and rainy (5–12°C). Fewest visitors — you may have the ruins almost to yourself. Bring rain gear. Selçuk's Saturday market is lively year-round.
- Ruins practically empty
- Cheapest accommodation in Selçuk
- Stork migration begins in late February
Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)
Selçuk is a small town but has some wonderful local restaurants. Avoid the tourist traps by the ruins entrance:
Ejder Restaurant$
Popular local eatery near Selçuk's center serving homestyle Turkish cooking. The daily stews and köfte (meatballs) are excellent. A full lunch costs under 150 TRY (~€5). Friendly family service.
Tat Restaurant$ – $$
Well-regarded restaurant with outdoor seating. Good grilled meats, fresh salads, and vegetarian-friendly options. Try the çöp şiş (small lamb skewers). Mains 150–300 TRY (~€5–9).
Selçuk Köftecisi$
No-frills köfte specialist that has been serving perfect grilled meatballs for decades. Comes with fresh bread, salad, and grilled peppers. A filling meal for under 120 TRY (~€4).
Agora Cafe & Restaurant$ – $$
Located near the Basilica of St. John with shaded garden seating. Good meze selection, fresh fish, and Turkish breakfast. A relaxing spot after exploring the ruins. Mains 180–350 TRY (~€5–10).
Artemis Restaurant & Wine House (Şirince)$ – $$
Charming restaurant in Şirince village with panoramic valley views. Local Aegean cuisine with olive oil dishes and fresh herbs. Pair with a local fruit wine. Mains 200–350 TRY (~€6–10).
Mehmet and Ali Baba Kebab House$
Simple but beloved kebab spot popular with both locals and travelers. The İskender kebab and pide are standouts. Generous portions and friendly staff. Mains 120–220 TRY (~€4–7).
Old House (Şirince)$$
Set in a restored stone house, this restaurant serves refined Aegean cuisine. The stuffed vine leaves and slow-cooked lamb are highlights. Beautiful garden setting among olive trees. Mains 250–400 TRY (~€7–12).