Ephesus is an ancient city in Turkey with many exciting things to see and do. Once an important Greek and Roman city, it's now a popular tourist spot. When you visit, you can walk through old streets and imagine life 2,000 years ago. The Library of Celsus is a must-see building with beautiful old columns. The Great Theater, which could hold 25,000 people, is another amazing sight. You can also see the Temple of Artemis ruins, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. As you explore, you'll find old houses, shops, and public bathrooms that show how people lived long ago. Don't miss the famous Terrace Houses, where rich Romans once lived. Near Ephesus, you can visit the House of Virgin Mary, believed to be where Mary spent her last years. The nearby town of Selçuk offers museums and local food to try. There are a diverse range of things to do in Ephesus that can make your visit both exciting and memorable.
Top 10 Things to do in Ephesus: Explore Iconic Museums and Theatres
At Ephesus, you can also explore the Ephesus Archaeological Museum. This museum helps bring the city's history to life. There are many other things to do in Ephesus that you can explore to make your visit truly amazing. The best time to visit Ephesus is during spring (April to May) or fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant - not too hot or cold. You'll enjoy comfortable temperatures for walking around the outdoor ruins. These seasons also have fewer tourists compared to the busy summer months, so you can explore more peacefully. Summer (June to August) can be very hot and crowded. Winter (November to March) is cooler and less busy, but there's a higher chance of rain. If you visit in summer, try to go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest sun.
We have curated down the list of things to do in Ephesus:
1. Wander through the Ephesus Archaeological Site
2. Meander along the Marble Streets
3. Investigate the Library of Celsus
4. Observe the Odeon
5. Tour the Great Theatre
6. Explore the Terrace Houses
7. Discover the Temple of Artemis
8. See the House of the Virgin Mary
9. Explore the Basilica of St. John
10. Uncover the Ephesus Archaeological Museum
1. Wander through the Ephesus Archaeological Site
The Ephesus Archaeological Site, one of the most renowned things to see in Ephesus, is a vast ancient city brimming with history. As you explore, you'll encounter the remains of structures from over 2,000 years ago, including ancient homes, shops, and public areas. The sheer scale of the site invites you to immerse yourself in the past, with its stone walls, crumbling columns, and timeworn statues offering a glimpse into ancient life. Be prepared for extensive walking, so wear comfortable shoes and bring essentials like water and a hat to shield yourself from the heat. Don't forget your camera to capture the remarkable sights of this extraordinary historical treasure!
Address: Ephesus, Selçuk
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Summer); 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Winter)
Nearby Hotels:
- Selcuk Ephesus Hotel
- Saint John Hotel
- Ephesus Princess
- Hotel Bella
Nearby Restaurants:
- Artemis Restaurant
- Cheers Restaurant
- Ayasoluk Restaurant
- Selçuk Kebab
Nearby Attractions:
- House of the Virgin Mary
- Basilica of St. John
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum
- Temple of Hadrian
2. Meander along the Marble Streets
The Marble Streets, one of the greatest attractions in Ephesus are ancient pathways crafted from smooth, white stone, standing the test of time for thousands of years. As you stroll along these historic roads, imagine the countless people who once walked here. Look for traces of old wagon wheels etched into the stone and observe the remnants of former streetlights and drainage covers designed to manage rainwater. The prominent Curetes Street, which descends through the site, is lined with significant buildings and offers a tangible connection to Ephesus's bustling past. Walking these streets feels like a journey back to the vibrant days of this ancient city.
Address: Curetes Street, Ephesus
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Summer); 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Winter)
Nearby Hotels:
- Saint John Hotel
- Hotel Bella
- Ephesus Princess
- Ephesus Lodge
Nearby Restaurants:
- Ejder Restaurant
- Ayasoluk Restaurant
- Selçuk Kebab
- Cheers Restaurant
Nearby Attractions:
- Ephesus Archaeological Site
- The Odeon
- Basilica of St. John
- Temple of Hadrian
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3. Investigate the Library of Celsus
The Library of Celsus is one of must-see Ephesus's iconic structures, dating back around 1,900 years. The facade remains remarkably intact and striking, featuring two levels adorned with columns and statues. Once filled with scrolls for the public to read, the library also served as the final resting place for a man named Celsus. Pay attention to the four statues on the front, which represent wisdom, knowledge, intelligence, and virtue—key values in Roman culture. This grand library reflects the deep appreciation the people of Ephesus had for both learning and beauty.
Address: Atatürk, Meryem Ana Yolu No:15, 35920 Selçuk/İzmir, Türkiye
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Nearby Hotels:
- Ephesus Lodge
- Saint John Hotel
- Ephesus Princess
- Hotel Bella
Nearby Restaurants:
- Artemis Restaurant
- Ayasoluk Restaurant
- Cheers Restaurant
- Ejder Restaurant
Nearby Attractions:
- Temple of Hadrian
- The Odeon
- Ephesus Archaeological Site
- Basilica of St. John
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4. Observe the Odeon
The Odeon is a famous theater and one of the top places to visit in Ephesus. Constructed around 150 AD, this venue was used for musical performances and civic meetings, accommodating up to 1,500 people. Shaped like a half-circle, the Odeon features stone seats arranged with the most important individuals in the front rows. It once had a roof to shield attendees from the sun and rain. As you visit, take note of the remaining wall decorations and imagine the vibrant music and speeches that once resonated here. The Odeon highlights the rich cultural and social life of ancient Ephesus.
Location: Ephesus Archaeological Site
Address: Atatürk, Ephesus Ruins, 35920 Selçuk/İzmir, Türkiye
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Summer); 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Winter)
Nearby Hotels:
- Ephesus Princess
- Hotel Bella
- Ephesus Lodge
- Saint John Hotel
Nearby Restaurants:
- Ayasoluk Restaurant
- Artemis Restaurant
- Cheers Restaurant
- Ejder Restaurant
Nearby Attractions:
- Ephesus Archaeological Site
- Basilica of St. John
- The Odeon
- Temple of Hadrian
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5. Tour the Great Theatre
The Great Theatre is the largest structure in Ephesus, with a capacity of up to 25,000 people equivalent to a modern sports stadium. This impressive venue was used for various events, including plays, and animal shows, and served as a gathering place for important discussions. Carved into a hillside, the theatre features expansive stone seating that rises steeply, offering panoramic views of Ephesus and the distant sea from the top. The enormous stage allowed actors to perform with voices projected clearly to the farthest seats. The Great Theatre, the famous sightseeing in Ephesus, showcases the profound appreciation the people of Ephesus had for entertainment.
Address: Atatürk, Ephesus Ruins, 35920 Selçuk/İzmir, Türkiye
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Summer); 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Winter)
Nearby Hotels:
- Selcuk Ephesus Hotel
- Hotel Bella
- Saint John Hotel
- Ephesus Princess
Nearby Restaurants:
- Ayasoluk Restaurant
- Cheers Restaurant
- Ejder Restaurant
- Artemis Restaurant
Nearby Attractions:
- Temple of Hadrian
- The Odeon
- Basilica of St. John
- Ephesus Archaeological Site
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6. Explore the Terrace Houses
The Terrace Houses in Ephesus were luxurious residences for the wealthy, built in a tiered fashion on a hillside. These homes offer a unique glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of rich Romans from 2,000 years ago. Inside, you'll find vibrant wall paintings and intricate mosaic floors, along with advanced features for their era, such as running water and underfloor heating. As you explore, you’ll come across bedrooms, dining rooms, and courtyards, and you might spot ancient graffiti on some of the walls. These houses provide a fascinating window into daily life in ancient Ephesus making it one of the best places to visit in Turkey.
Address: Atatürk, Ephesus Ruins, 35920 Selçuk/İzmir, Türkiye
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Summer); 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Winter)
Nearby Hotels:
- Ephesus Princess
- Hotel Bella
- Saint John Hotel
- Ephesus Lodge
Nearby Restaurants:
- Selçuk Kebab
- Ayasoluk Restaurant
- Cheers Restaurant
- Ejder Restaurant
Nearby Attractions:
- Temple of Hadrian
- Ephesus Archaeological Site
- The Odeon
- Basilica of St. John
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7. Discover the Temple of Artemis
The Temple of Artemis was once celebrated as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, renowned for its grandeur and beauty and dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Today, only remnants remain: a solitary tall column and some foundation stones. Try to envision its former magnificence, with its multiple reconstructions over the centuries, adorned with gold and numerous statues. Though largely vanished, standing on the site of this once-majestic temple remains one of the best things to do in Turkey, offering insight into the significant role of religion in the lives of ancient Ephesians.
Address: Atatürk, Park İçi Yolu No:12, 35920 Selçuk/İzmir, Türkiye
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Summer); 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Winter)
Nearby Hotels:
- Selcuk Ephesus Hotel
- Hotel Bella
- Saint John Hotel
- Ephesus Princess
Nearby Restaurants:
- Selcuk Pidecisi
- Kybele Gastro- Restaurant
- Amazon Bistro Cafe Bar
- Agora Restaurant
Nearby Attractions:
- Ephesus Archaeological Site
- The Odeon
- Basilica of St. John
- Temple of Hadrian
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8. See the House of the Virgin Mary
The House of the Virgin Mary is a modest stone building perched on a hill, believed by many to be the final residence of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Now a serene chapel, it provides a tranquil space for prayer and reflection. Inside, the chapel is simple and peaceful, while outside, a wall is covered with notes containing personal wishes and prayers. Nearby, a spring is thought by some to possess healing properties. Regardless of your religious beliefs, this quiet hilltop site offers a pleasant visit and stunning views of the Ephesus countryside. Close to this famous attraction, you'll find one of popular restaurants in Turkey where you can enjoy their delicious cuisine.
Address: Mount Koressos, Selçuk
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Summer); 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Winter)
Nearby Hotels:
- Hotel Bella
- Saint John Hotel
- Ephesus Lodge
- Selcuk Ephesus Hotel
- Ephesus Princess
Nearby Restaurants:
- Ayasoluk Restaurant
- Cheers Restaurant
- Selçuk Kebab
- Ejder Restaurant
Nearby Attractions:
- Temple of Hadrian
- The Odeon
- Basilica of St. John
- Ephesus Archaeological Site
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9. Explore the Basilica of St. John
The Basilica of St. John was a grand church erected to honor St. John the Apostle, who is believed to have written his gospel in Ephesus and been buried here. Built around 1,500 years ago, only remnants of the church remain today, but you can still appreciate its former grandeur. Notable features include the baptismal font where early Christians were baptized and the intricate floor mosaics. From its hilltop location, you can also see the ruins of the Temple of Artemis. The basilica illustrates the transformation of Ephesus from a city devoted to Roman gods to one that embraced Christianity. While exploring historical sites like this, consider also enjoying shopping in Turkey for a blend of cultural and modern experiences.
Address: Ataturk, St. Jean Cd., 35920 Selçuk/İzmir, Türkiye
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Summer); 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Winter)
Nearby Hotels:
- Ephesus Princess
- Hotel Bella
- Saint John Hotel
- Selcuk Ephesus Hotel
Nearby Restaurants:
- Ayasoluk Restaurant
- Cheers Restaurant
- Selçuk Kebab
- Ejder Restaurant
Nearby Attractions:
- Ephesus Archaeological Site
- The Odeon
- Basilica of St. John
- Temple of Hadrian
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10. Uncover the Ephesus Archaeological Museum
The Ephesus Archaeological Museum is in the nearby town of Selçuk. It holds many treasures found in Ephesus. Here, you can see statues, coins, jewelry, and everyday items used by ancient people. There are famous statues like Artemis of Ephesus. You can also see things from the Terrace Houses, like furniture and cooking pots. The museum helps bring the ruins of Ephesus to life. It shows you what the broken pieces you saw at the site used to look like. There are good explanations in English. This museum is a great place to learn more about the history of Ephesus and see some amazing ancient art.
Address: Atatürk, Uğur Mumcu Sevgi Yolu No: 26, 35920 Selçuk/İzmir, Türkiye
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Summer); 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Winter)
Nearby Hotels:
- Selcuk Ephesus Hotel
- Ephesus Princess
- Hotel Bella
- Saint John Hotel
Nearby Restaurants:
- Artemis Restaurant
- Cheers Restaurant
- Ejder Restaurant
- Ayasoluk Restaurant
Nearby Attractions:
- Temple of Hadrian
- The Odeon
- Basilica of St. John
- Ephesus Archaeological Site
In conclusion, Ephesus offers a journey through time. From grand theaters to ancient streets, each site tells a story of the past. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or religion, there's something for everyone. Take your time to enjoy the best things to do in Ephesus, imagine life 2,000 years ago, and soak in the atmosphere of this ancient city. Don't forget to visit the museum to see the treasures up close. Ephesus is more than just ruins - it's a window into an ancient world waiting for you to discover. Your visit will be an unforgettable experience with our bestselling Turkey tour packages.
Things to do in Ephesus FAQ’s
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the main archaeological site. However, if you want to see everything thoroughly, including the Terrace Houses and museum, plan for a full day. Take your time to truly appreciate the ancient city's wonders.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain is uneven. Choose breathable clothes, especially in summer. Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection. In winter, dress in layers as it can be cool. The site is mostly open, so prepare for the weather.
Yes, Ephesus can be exciting for children. They often enjoy exploring the ancient ruins and imagining life in Roman times. There are open spaces to move around and impressive structures to see. Just be prepared for lots of walking and bring snacks and water.
There are small shops near the entrances selling snacks and drinks, but options are limited. It's best to bring your own water. For more substantial food, visit the nearby town of Selçuk before or after your tour of Ephesus.
Yes, you can take photos throughout the site for personal use. Flash photography is generally allowed. If you want to use a tripod or take professional photos, you may need to get special permission from the site management.
Early morning or late afternoon is ideal, especially in summer. You'll avoid the midday heat and the largest crowds. The soft light at these times also makes for beautiful photos. In winter, midday can be pleasant for exploring.
A guide isn't mandatory but can greatly enhance your experience. They provide historical context and interesting stories. Alternatively, you can rent an audio guide or use a guidebook. Some visitors prefer exploring at their own pace without a guide.
The Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was dedicated to Artemis, the goddess of fertility and hunting. While only a few columns remain today, the site holds significant historical value.
Ephesus is near the town of Selçuk. You can take a local bus or taxi from Selçuk to the site. Many visitors join organized tours from nearby cities like Izmir or Kuşadası. If driving, there's parking available near the entrance.
Yes, the Terrace Houses are a highlight for many visitors. They offer a unique glimpse into ancient Roman domestic life, with well-preserved frescoes and mosaics. There's an extra fee, but most find it worthwhile for the detailed look at daily life.
Yes, many visitors see both sites in one day. They're about 7 km apart. Start early at the House of Virgin Mary, then spend the rest of the day at Ephesus. Some tours include both sites in their itinerary.
Yes, there are toilet facilities near both the upper and lower entrances of Ephesus. You'll also find some on the site. They're generally well-maintained, but it's a good idea to carry some tissues or toilet paper just in case.
