Ephesus Travel Guide 2026: Everything You Need to Know
One of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean, once home to the Temple of Artemis.
Why Visit Ephesus?
- Remarkably preserved ancient city
- Library of Celsus - iconic facade
- One of Seven Wonders was here
- Terrace Houses with mosaics
- Walking through 2000 years of history
Top Attractions in Ephesus
Library of Celsus
Iconic two-story Roman library facade
Great Theater
25,000-seat ancient theater with acoustics
Terrace Houses
Roman villas with preserved frescoes
Temple of Artemis Site
Remains of one of Seven Wonders
House of Virgin Mary
Pilgrimage site on nearby hill
Ephesus Museum
Artifacts from the ancient city
Best Time to Visit Ephesus
Spring
April-May: Wildflowers, comfortable walking
Autumn
September-October: Golden light, fewer crowds
Summer
June-August: Very hot - go early morning
Winter
Quiet but can be rainy
Local Tips & Advice
- Arrive at 8am opening to beat crowds
- Hire a guide - brings ruins to life
- Terrace Houses cost extra but worth it
- Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection
- Combine with Sirince village visit
What to Eat in Ephesus
- Fresh Aegean seafood in Selcuk
- Gozleme from village ladies
- Local olive oil and wine
- Sirince fruit wines
- Turkish breakfast before the ruins
Neighborhoods to Explore
- Ephesus Site: The ancient city
- Selcuk: Gateway town with museum
- Sirince: Charming hill village
Getting Around
Ephesus has various transportation options to help you explore. Consider purchasing a local transit card for convenience, and don't hesitate to walk - many attractions are best discovered on foot.
Where to Stay
Ephesus offers accommodation for every budget:
- Luxury: 5-star hotels with premium amenities
- Mid-range: Comfortable hotels and boutique stays
- Budget: Hostels and guesthouses for backpackers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Ephesus?
The best times to visit Ephesus are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller.
How many days do I need in Ephesus?
We recommend 3-5 days to explore Ephesus's main attractions comfortably, though you could spend longer discovering hidden gems.
Is Ephesus safe for tourists?
Ephesus is generally safe for tourists. As with any destination, stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
What is Ephesus known for?
One of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean, once home to the Temple of Artemis.
What food should I try in Ephesus?
Don't miss local specialties like Fresh Aegean seafood in Selcuk, Gozleme from village ladies, Local olive oil and wine when visiting Ephesus.
Ephesus Travel Guide 2026 - Last updated: January 2026
