Ephesus

Turkey, Europe

Ephesus is an ancient city renowned for its remarkable ruins, including the stunning Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre, one of the best-preserved amphitheaters in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into Roman civilization, complete with intricate mosaics and grand temples. Visitors are drawn to its historical significance and breathtaking architecture, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Cultural Site

Vibe

History

Airport

Adnan Menderes

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Ephesus

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Library of Celsus

Marvel at this ancient Roman library's stunning facade.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Walk the ancient streets of Ephesus

Stroll through ruins that tell a rich history.

No booking required
3

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Temple of Artemis

See the ruins of one of the Seven Wonders.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Check out the Great Theatre

Experience the grandeur of the ancient amphitheater.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Terrace Houses

Discover the luxurious homes of ancient Ephesians.

Booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Basilica of St. John

Explore the site believed to be John's burial place.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy local cuisine at a traditional restaurant

Taste authentic Turkish dishes in Ephesus.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ephesus Museum

See artifacts that tell the story of Ephesus.

No booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a guided tour of Ephesus

Gain deeper insights into the ancient city.

Booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax in a Turkish bath (Hamam)

Experience a traditional cleansing ritual and relaxation.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Turkish Lira

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Turkish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Lamb

Tender meat from lamb, often grilled. (National dish)

Kebap

Grilled meat skewers, popular in Turkey.

Baklava

V

Sweet pastry filled with nuts and syrup.

Meze

VE

A variety of small dishes served as appetizers.

Turkish Delight (Lokum)

VE

Gel-like sweet made with starch and sugar.

Phrases to learn

English

Turkish

Hello

Merhaba

(Mehr-hah-bah)

Yes/No

Evet / Hayir

(Eh-vet / Hai-uhr)

Thank you

Teşekkür

(Teh-she-kyoor)

Excuse me

Affedersiniz

(Ah-feh-dehr-seen-ez)

How much?

Ne kadar?

(Neh kah-dar)