Ephesus is the best-preserved Roman city in the eastern Mediterranean, capital of the Roman province of Asia and one of the largest cities of the ancient world (250,000 inhabitants at peak). The Library of Celsus is the most-photographed facade in Turkey; the 25,000-seat Great Theatre is still used for summer concerts. The optional Terrace Houses upgrade reveals 1st-century AD wealthy households with intact mosaics, frescoed walls, and underfloor heating systems — comparable to Pompeii but better preserved. The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is reduced to a single column 1 km north of the main site.
Ticket
€20 (€30 with Terrace Houses)
Visit time
3–5 hours
Type
archaeological
UNESCO
World Heritage Site
When to visit
Morning April–October; arrive at 8am opening
Skip-the-line tip
Cruise-ship tours from Kusadasi flood the site between 10am and 1pm. Arrive at 8am or after 4pm; the Library of Celsus is photographable in low-angle light at both ends of the day. The Terrace Houses entry has its own queue; book ahead in summer.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Ephesus cost?
Standard Ephesus entry is €20. The Terrace Houses upgrade is €10 extra (combined €30). The Ephesus Museum in Selcuk is €5 separately and holds the original sculptures from the site.
Are the Terrace Houses worth the extra ticket?
Yes for travellers interested in domestic Roman life. The Terrace Houses preserve mosaics and frescoes from 1st-century AD wealthy households at a level of detail Pompeii rarely matches. Allow an extra hour.
How long do you need at Ephesus?
Plan 3–5 hours including the Terrace Houses. The site is 1.5 km long with no shade; bring water and sun protection. A guided 3-hour tour covers the main monuments efficiently.
How do I get to Ephesus?
Ephesus is 3 km from Selcuk town. Most travellers base in Selcuk (closest hotels) or Kusadasi (closer to the cruise port, 25 km away). Domestic flights to Izmir Adnan Menderes airport, then 50-minute drive south.