Ephesus Ancient
City Info
History of Ephesus Ancient City
Ephesus Ancient City is one of the most important archaeological sites of the ancient world. Founded by the Ionians around the 10th century BC, the city later became a major cultural, commercial, and religious center of the Roman Empire.
Ephesus was home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and reached its peak with a population of more than 200,000 people during the Roman period. Today, the city is world-famous for its well-preserved structures such as the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, Curetes Street, Terrace Houses, and Hadrian’s Temple.
Ephesus is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most visited ancient cities in Turkey.
1. Getting to Ephesus by Private Car
From Izmir
-
Follow the highway towards Aydin or the coastal road to Selcuk.
-
Once you reach Selcuk, follow the brown tourist signs “Ephesus – Efes.”
Driving time: approximately 1 hour.
From Kusadasi
-
Drive 20 minutes towards Selcuk and follow the signs to Ephesus.
Both entrances (Upper Gate and Lower Gate) have parking areas.
2. Transportation from Selcuk to Ephesus
Dolmus (Minibus)
-
Dolmus services depart frequently from Selcuk Bus Station.
-
They go to Lower Gate only.
-
From Lower Gate you can walk inside the site or take a taxi to the Upper Gate.
Taxi
-
Selcuk → Ephesus is only 5–7 minutes by taxi.
-
Taxis are the easiest way to reach the Upper Gate.
Walking
It is possible to walk from Selcuk to the Lower Gate (about 25–30 minutes), but it is not recommended during hot summer months.
3. Transportation from Izmir to Ephesus
By Train (IZBAN + TCDD)
One of the most convenient options:
-
Take IZBAN to Tepeköy station.
-
From Tepeköy, transfer to the regional train to Selcuk.
-
From Selcuk station take a dolmus or taxi to Ephesus.
By Bus
-
Buses run from Izmir Bus Terminal to Selcuk frequently.
-
From Selcuk Bus Terminal take a dolmus or taxi to Ephesus.
How to Get to Ephesus Ancient City
Daily guided tours depart from:
-
Izmir (Alsancak, Konak, Bornova)
-
Kusadasi
-
Selcuk
Most tours include:
-
Ephesus Ancient City
-
House of the Virgin Mary
-
Temple of Artemis
-
Sirince Village
Advantages of a guided tour:
-
Professional explanations from a licensed guide
-
No need to arrange transportation
-
Efficient full-day visit covering multiple important sites
Visiting Ephesus with an Organized Tour
Upper Gate (Magnesia Gate)
-
Closest to the House of Virgin Mary road
-
Best starting point for a comfortable downhill walk through Ephesus
Lower Gate (Harbour Gate)
-
Near the Library of Celsus
-
Dolmus services arrive here
-
Many tours pick up guests from this exit after the visit
Entrance Gates & Recommended Route
For navigation, simply search:
“Ephesus Ancient City” or “Efes Antik Kenti.”
Both entrances appear clearly on the map.
Google Maps Information
Reaching Ephesus Ancient City is very easy from Izmir, Selcuk, or Kusadasi. Whether you prefer to drive, use public transportation, or join a guided tour, the site is accessible and well-marked. For a smoother visit, entering from the Upper Gate and exiting at the Lower Gate is highly recommended.