Last update February 12, 2026
Ephesus is an ancient city and archaeological site located near Selçuk town in İzmir Province, in the Aegean Region of Turkey. It is situated along the western coast of Turkey, close to the Aegean Sea. The site is renowned for its well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins and its role in ancient history. Ephesus was once a major Mediterranean port city and religious center during antiquity.
The recommended months to visit Ephesus are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these periods, temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C. Summers (July and August) are hot with temperatures often exceeding 30°C and higher visitor density. Winters (December to February) are mild but less suitable for extensive outdoor exploration due to rain and cooler weather.
| Season | Months | Temperature Range | Crowd Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | April – June | 15°C – 25°C | Moderate |
| Summer | July – August | 30°C – 35°C+ | High |
| Autumn | September – October | 18°C – 27°C | Moderate |
| Winter | December – February | 8°C – 15°C | Low |
Ephesus is best accessed via İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport, located approximately 50 km from the site. From there, visitors can use bus services, taxis, or car rentals. The town of Selçuk provides the closest train and bus connections. Road travel is also possible from major cities in western Turkey.
Ancient city ruins from Greek and Roman periods, including streets, temples, baths, and theaters. Historical site. Average visit duration: 2-4 hours.
Roman-era ancient library facade and ruins within Ephesus archaeological site. Historical landmark. Average visit duration: 30-45 minutes.
Ruins of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World located near Ephesus site. Historical ruin with limited remains. Average visit duration: 20-30 minutes.
Museum in Selçuk displaying artifacts recovered from Ephesus. Museum. Average visit duration: 1-2 hours.
Religious pilgrimage site near Ephesus, believed to be the last residence of Mary. Religious historic site. Average visit duration: 1 hour.
Half a day is sufficient to see the main Ephesus ruins briefly. One full day allows viewing all main sites including the museum and the House of Virgin Mary. Two to three days provide time for additional nearby visits, coastal excursions, and more detailed exploration of the archaeological areas.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Climate | Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild wet winters |
| Seasonality notes | Peak visits occur in spring and autumn; summers are hot and more crowded |
| Crowd levels | High in summer months and holidays; moderate in spring and autumn; low in winter |
| Constraints or limitations | Summer heat can exceed 30°C; some archaeological areas have uneven terrain; limited public transport on weekends |
Ephesus attracts mainly cultural travelers, history enthusiasts, and archaeology visitors interested in ancient Greek and Roman sites. It is also frequented by religious pilgrims visiting the House of Virgin Mary. Visitors generally seek educational and historical experiences rather than leisure or beach tourism.
One full day is typically sufficient to explore the primary archaeological sites including the ruins, Temple of Artemis, and the museum. Additional days (2-3 total) allow for nearby excursions to Selçuk town, Kusadasi, and other local landmarks for more comprehensive visits.
Ephesus is generally safe for travelers with standard precautions. The site is well-maintained with official security. Visitors should remain cautious of uneven paths when walking in ruins and protect themselves from sun exposure during hot months.
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer moderate temperatures (15°C-27°C) and moderate crowd levels. These periods are best for outdoor exploration. Summers are hotter and more crowded, winters cooler and less suited for extensive walking tours.