Ephesus: Day Trips and Tours from Izmir

Filled with ancient temples, intricate sculptures and residential villas that date back to the 10th century B.C., Ephesus is the ideal spot to learn about ancient Greek civilization. From grand theaters to places of worship, this archaeological site enables visitors to gain an insight into the daily lifestyle and customs of those who inhabited this corner of Turkey over 3,000 years ago.

Day trips to Ephesus from Izmir are a must for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike.

Here's all you need to know about Ephesus, one of the most exciting day trips from Izmir.

How to get to Ephesus from Izmir?

Ephesus lies on the West Coast of Turkey, just 3 kilometers from the village of Selçuk. It is approximately 80 kilometers south of Izmir.

From Izmir to Ephesus by car

The journey to Ephesus takes an hour by car and begins by leaving Izmir in a northerly direction along the D300. You’ll then merge onto the E87 and follow it for over 50 kilometers. Continuing on, you’ll utilize the D550 as far as Selçuk, finishing the route off by journeying along the D515 for the final 3 kilometers.

From Izmir to Ephesus by public transport

Those without access to a car can make the jaunt to Ephesus most of the way via public transport. You’ll simply head to the Izmir Bus Station where you’ll board a bus bound for Selçuk. These run every hour and the journey takes approximately 45 minutes. Upon arrival in Selçuk, you can hail a local taxi to cover the final distance to Ephesus.

Guided tour to Ephesus from Izmir

Alternatively, book a guided excursion to Ephesus and allow someone else to take care of the transportation details for you. These day trips usually last between 4 and 8 hours, and begin with a convenient hotel pickup service between 7 AM and 9 AM.

If you are a cruise passenger, you’ll generally be collected from Izmir Cruise Port instead.

How much does the entrance ticket to Ephesus cost?

Entrance to Ephesus costs TRY400 (US$19) per person.

What is the typical itinerary?

Each day trip to Ephesus has its own unique itinerary. However, they often share similarities and all begin with a pickup at either your hotel or the port by a friendly guide. From here, you may travel straight to Ephesus, where you’ll be guided around the ancient ruins by an informative guide. Some excursions also provide you with the opportunity to add the Terrace Houses to your itinerary for an additional charge.

From there, you may head to neighboring sites, such as the House of the Virgin Mary or St. John’s Basilica. Alternatively, you may visit the House of the Virgin Mary first, before stepping foot in the ancient city of Ephesus. After discovering a wealth of monuments, you may return to Izmir. However, several Ephesus day tours journey on to other sights, which include Sirince and Pamukkale.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Ephesus?

There are a variety of Ephesus day tours available, depending on any additional sites you wish to visit.

Guided full-day tours to Ephesus from Izmir

You’ll begin this Ephesus day trip by boarding your vehicle and journeying through Western Turkey to the House of the Virgin Mary where it is believed the mother of Christ spent her final years. From there, you’ll make your way to Ephesus where you’ll marvel at a myriad of ancient monuments, including the Hercules Gate and Library of Celsus.

You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the Terrace Houses, which were once inhabited by wealthy townsfolk. Moving on, you’ll head to the Temple of Artemis — one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World — and discover the resting place of St. John, as well as the 14th-century Isa Bey Mosque, before returning to Izmir.

Day trip to Ephesus plus Sirince from Izmir

Alternatively, you can opt for an Ephesus day tour that includes Sirince in its itinerary. You’ll travel first to Ephesus where you’ll be guided around its striking statues, temple ruins and colossal theaters by a knowledgeable guide who can provide an insight into the Ancient Greek civilization.

You’ll then weave your way through the mountains to the village of Sirince, to roam its cobbled streets, discover its artisanal goods and taste its famous wine.

2-Day tour to Ephesus plus Pamukkale from Izmir

Those with more time to spare can select a multi-day trip to Ephesus. You’ll spend the first day of the tour discovering the healing thermal springs of the UNESCO-listed Pamukkale. You’ll also have the chance to roam the 2nd-century city of Hierapolis, which was best known for its plethora of temples.

After a restful night at your Izmir hotel, you’ll make the journey to Ephesus, where you can spend several hours learning about the history of the ancient Greeks. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, Isa Bey Mosque and St. John’s Basilica before ending your tour back in Izmir.

How much does a day trip to Ephesus from Izmir cost?

A full-day tour of Ephesus costs between US$120 and US$130 per person of any age, and you’ll be part of a group.

A day trip to Ephesus and Sirince costs US$260 per person if you choose to travel alone. Again, you’ll pay less if you book as a group. With the maximum number of 10 people in your party, you’ll each pay between US$100 and US$110.

If you opt for a multi-day tour to Ephesus, you can expect to pay US$380 per person aged 12 and over. The minimum booking requirement is two persons and you’ll be part of a small group limited to nine participants.

What will you see and do?

Ephesus was built by the ancient Greeks in the 10th century B.C. upon the site of an older city, Apasa. It is home to a range of landmarks, showcasing the best of both Greek and Roman architecture.

One of the most celebrated monuments here is the Grand Theater, which could once house 25,000 spectators and took 60 years to build. Another remarkable spot is the Library of Celsus, constructed in the 2nd century by Tiberius Julius Aquila Polemaeanus as a funerary monument for his father.

Another sight to see on an Ephesus day trip are the Baths of Scholastica — a bath complex originating in the 1st century, which was renovated in the 4th century by a rich local woman. Scholastica added a statue of herself to the entrance of this site, part of which can still be seen today.

What are the opening times?

Ephesus is open every day between 8 AM and 8 PM. The ticket office closes at 7 PM.

When is the best time to visit Ephesus?

The best months to plan a visit to Ephesus are April, May, October and November. These months have pleasant temperatures, neither too hot nor too cold. Summer is a popular time for tourists, mainly because of the holiday season, but it's important to note that July and August can get temperatures up to 43 degrees Celsius at noon.

Are there any tours to Ephesus from other cities in Turkey?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Turkey:

• Day Tours to Ephesus from Kuşadası
• Day Tours to Ephesus from Istanbul
• Day Tours to Ephesus from Bodrum
• Day Tours to Ephesus from Fethiye
• Day Tours to Ephesus from Selçuk

Travel tips

• There is a lot of walking in Ephesus, so it's important to wear comfortable, supportive shoes. This makes for a more comfortable and painless experience when exploring the site.
• Ephesus has two entrances and exits. Choose the upper gate entrance for easier and more convenient descent compared to the up route.
• It is important to dress appropriately and respectfully when visiting the places of worship in Ephesus. Avoid flip-flops, shorts, sleeveless shirts, below-the-knee skirts, or other clothing considered inappropriate for religious sites.
• Ephesus is wheelchair accessible. But keep in mind that the surface can be bumpy. Wheelchair users may require assistance to push their wheelchair comfortably around the property.