12 Must-See Sights in Ephesus and Selçuk

Ephesus was once one of the largest cities of the Roman Empire, with more than 200,000 inhabitants at its peak. Today its marble streets, temples and theatres make it one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world. Here are the 12 sights you should not miss, in the order you will meet them walking down from the upper gate.

Inside the Ancient City

1. The Odeon

Near the upper entrance stands this small, beautifully restored theatre with about 1,500 seats. It was used for city council meetings and concerts. It gives you a first impression of the scale of Roman public life.

2. The State Agora

This was the administrative heart of Ephesus, where officials met and official business was done. Look for the column bases and inscriptions that line the square.

3. Curetes Street

The city's grand processional avenue slopes down past statues, fountains and shops. Its marble paving, worn smooth over centuries, leads straight to the most photographed spot in Ephesus.

4. Temple of Hadrian

This small temple is dedicated to Emperor Hadrian and is one of the finest examples of Roman decoration in Ephesus. Look up at the arch: a carved face of Tyche, goddess of fortune, watches over visitors. Medusa appears on the inner relief.

5. The Terrace Houses

These luxury homes were built into the hillside for Ephesus's wealthiest families. They are covered by a protective roof and contain stunning mosaics, wall frescoes and marble floors. A separate ticket (about €15) is needed, but most visitors call it the highlight of the day.

6. Library of Celsus

This is the icon of Ephesus. The two-storey façade was built in the 2nd century AD as a monument to Tiberius Julius Celsus, a Roman governor whose tomb lies beneath the building. It once held around 12,000 scrolls, which made it one of the great libraries of the ancient world. Come early or late in the day for the best light and fewer people.

7. The Great Theatre

The theatre held around 24,000 spectators and is still used for occasional concerts. Climb a few rows for a view down Harbour Street, which once led to the sea. Over the centuries, silt pushed the coastline about 5 km away.

8. Harbour Street (Arcadian Way)

This colonnaded avenue once ran from the theatre to the harbour. In Roman times it was one of the few streets in the world lit at night. Today it is a peaceful walk to the lower gate.

Around Ephesus and Selçuk

9. House of the Virgin Mary

This modest stone house sits in the green hills above Ephesus. It is believed to be where Mary spent her final years. It is a place of pilgrimage for both Christians and Muslims, since Maryam is deeply honoured in Islam. Dress modestly and keep your voice low. Visitors leave written wishes on the "wishing wall". Our Istanbul & Ephesus faith tour builds a whole itinerary around this region’s Christian heritage.

10. Temple of Artemis

This was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today a single rebuilt column stands in a marshy field where a temple once stood that was four times larger than the Parthenon. Entry is free, and it is a short stop on most tours.

11. Basilica of St. John and Ayasuluk Hill

These are the remains of a great 6th-century basilica, built by Emperor Justinian over the traditional tomb of St. John the Apostle. From the hill you have wide views over Selçuk and its Byzantine fortress.

12. İsa Bey Mosque

This mosque was built in 1375 and is a fine example of early Anatolian Islamic architecture. Its courtyard and old marble columns, many taken from ancient Ephesus, connect the region's different eras. It is a quiet, beautiful stop between the Basilica and the Temple of Artemis.

Bonus: Ephesus Museum and Şirince Village

The Ephesus Archaeological Museum in Selçuk displays the famous statues of Artemis and many finds from the Terrace Houses. Just 8 km away, the hillside village of Şirince is known for its stone houses, fruit products, olive oil and handmade soaps. It is a lovely way to end the day.

How to See It All in One Day

A well-planned day covers the House of the Virgin Mary, the Ancient City (entering from the upper gate), lunch and the Temple of Artemis. This is exactly the route of the guided Ephesus day in our Istanbul & Ephesus Tour Package, with hotel pickup in Kuşadası, entrance fees and lunch included.

For tickets and opening hours, read our Ephesus Travel Guide 2026.

Still planning the logistics? See how to combine Ephesus with an Istanbul trip and our advice on visiting Ephesus as a family.

FAQ

What is the most famous building in Ephesus?

The Library of Celsus, followed closely by the Great Theatre.

Are the Terrace Houses worth the extra ticket?

Yes. They hold some of the best-preserved Roman mosaics and frescoes in Türkiye.

Is the House of the Virgin Mary open to Muslim visitors?

Yes. It is visited by people of all faiths, and many Muslim visitors come to honour Maryam.

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