{"id":237581,"date":"2026-06-11T02:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-06-11T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/?p=237581"},"modified":"2026-06-12T10:02:56","modified_gmt":"2026-06-12T08:02:56","slug":"ephesus-turkey-ancient-city","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/","title":{"rendered":"Ephesus Turkey: 13 Tips for the Ancient City &#038; Around in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Say &#8220;antiquity&#8221; and most people picture Greece or Italy. But the best-preserved, most legible traces of the ancient world actually lie along Turkey&#8217;s western coast \u2013 and their queen is <strong>Ephesus, Turkey<\/strong>. This is no pile of rubble you have to imagine into life. Here you&#8217;ll walk along <strong>broad marble streets<\/strong>, past temples, baths, and public toilets, exactly the way the Romans used them two thousand years ago.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ephesus sits just outside the little town of Sel\u00e7uk, which makes the perfect base. Within easy reach you&#8217;ll find a <strong>vanished wonder of the world<\/strong> in the form of the Temple of Artemis, the pilgrimage site of the House of the Virgin Mary, and a wine-making village in the hills. Add a day trip and you can reach the white terraces of <strong>Pamukkale<\/strong> or the steep acropolis of <strong>Pergamon<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this guide you&#8217;ll find <strong>13 tips for Ephesus and the surrounding area<\/strong> \u2013 from the Library of Celsus and the Terrace Houses to the ancient cities nearby, plus practical advice on <strong>when to come, how much admission costs, and how to dodge the crowds from the cruise ships<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-shrnuti-pro-ty-kteri-nemaji-cas-cist-c-px.jpg\" alt=\"Summary for those who don&#039;t have time to read the whole article\" class=\"wp-image-231594\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-shrnuti-pro-ty-kteri-nemaji-cas-cist-c-px.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-shrnuti-pro-ty-kteri-nemaji-cas-cist-c-px-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-shrnuti-pro-ty-kteri-nemaji-cas-cist-c-px-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-shrnuti-pro-ty-kteri-nemaji-cas-cist-c-px-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-shrnuti-pro-ty-kteri-nemaji-cas-cist-c-px-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-shrnuti-pro-ty-kteri-nemaji-cas-cist-c-px-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-shrnuti-pro-ty-kteri-nemaji-cas-cist-c-px-160x120.jpg 160w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-shrnuti-pro-ty-kteri-nemaji-cas-cist-c-px-696x522.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-shrnuti-pro-ty-kteri-nemaji-cas-cist-c-px-1392x1044.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: G\u00f6ksel KE\u015eEN \/ Pexels<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_83 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#TLDR\" >TL;DR<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#When_to_visit_Ephesus_and_how_to_get_there\" >When to visit Ephesus and how to get there<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#Where_to_stay_near_Ephesus\" >Where to stay near Ephesus<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#13_tips_for_things_to_see_in_Ephesus_and_around\" >13 tips for things to see in Ephesus and around<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#1_The_Celsus_Library_an_icon_of_all_antiquity\" >1. The Celsus Library, an icon of all antiquity<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#2_The_Great_Theatre_for_25000_spectators\" >2. The Great Theatre for 25,000 spectators<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#3_The_Terrace_Houses_of_the_wealthy_elite\" >3. The Terrace Houses of the wealthy elite<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#4_Curetes_Street_the_Temple_of_Hadrian_and_the_ancient_toilets\" >4. Curetes Street, the Temple of Hadrian and the ancient toilets<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#5_Ephesus_Experience_Museum\" >5. Ephesus Experience Museum<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#6_The_Temple_of_Artemis_a_vanished_wonder_of_the_world\" >6. The Temple of Artemis, a vanished wonder of the world<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#7_The_House_of_the_Virgin_Mary_Meryem_Ana_Evi\" >7. The House of the Virgin Mary (Meryem Ana Evi)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#8_The_Basilica_of_St_John_and_the_Isa_Bey_Mosque\" >8. The Basilica of St. John and the \u0130sa Bey Mosque<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#9_Sirince_a_wine-making_village_in_the_hills\" >9. \u015eirince, a wine-making village in the hills<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#10_Priene_Miletus_and_Didyma\" >10. Priene, Miletus and Didyma<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#11_Pamukkale_and_Hierapolis\" >11. Pamukkale and Hierapolis<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#12_Pergamon_an_acropolis_in_the_clouds\" >12. Pergamon, an acropolis in the clouds<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#13_Kusadasi_port_beaches_and_Pigeon_Island\" >13. Ku\u015fadas\u0131: port, beaches and Pigeon Island<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#What_to_taste_around_Ephesus\" >What to taste around Ephesus<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#Practical_tips_for_visiting_Ephesus\" >Practical tips for visiting Ephesus<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#Where_to_go_next_in_western_Turkey\" >Where to go next in western Turkey<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#Frequently_asked_questions\" >Frequently asked questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#How_much_does_entrance_to_Ephesus_cost_in_year\" >How much does entrance to Ephesus cost in 2026?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#How_to_Avoid_Crowds_in_Ephesus\" >How to Avoid Crowds in Ephesus?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#Is_it_worth_paying_the_extra_entrance_fee_to_the_Terrace_Houses\" >Is it worth paying the extra entrance fee to the Terrace Houses?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#Is_it_better_to_stay_in_Selcuk_or_in_Kusadasi\" >Is it better to stay in Sel\u00e7uk or in Ku\u015fadas\u0131?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/ephesus-turkey-ancient-city\/#How_much_time_to_set_aside_for_Ephesus\" >How much time to set aside for Ephesus?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"TLDR\"><\/span>TL;DR<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Why come:<\/strong> <strong>The best-preserved ancient city in the world<\/strong> \u2013 marble streets, the Library of Celsus, a theatre for 25,000 spectators.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Admission 2026:<\/strong> <strong>\u20ac40<\/strong> for Ephesus (now including the Experience Museum), Terrace Houses <strong>\u20ac15<\/strong> extra. Consider the Museum Pass Aegean.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>When to arrive:<\/strong> At the gate by <strong>8:00 a.m.<\/strong> or <strong>after 3:30 p.m.<\/strong> \u2013 you&#8217;ll skip the cruise-ship crowds and the worst of the heat.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Base:<\/strong> <strong>Sel\u00e7uk<\/strong> (authentic, cheap, reachable by train and bus) or <strong>Ku\u015fadas\u0131<\/strong> (port, beaches, resorts).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Don&#8217;t miss nearby:<\/strong> the Temple of Artemis, the <strong>House of the Virgin Mary<\/strong>, the wine village of <strong>\u015eirince<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Day trips:<\/strong> <strong>Pamukkale<\/strong> (white travertines), <strong>Pergamon<\/strong> (acropolis above the town).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>What to wear:<\/strong> sturdy shoes (the marble is slippery!), a hat, and <strong>litres of water<\/strong> \u2013 there&#8217;s barely any shade.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_visit_Ephesus_and_how_to_get_there\"><\/span>When to visit Ephesus and how to get there<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Aegean coast is at its loveliest in <strong>spring and autumn<\/strong> \u2013 that is, in <strong>April to June<\/strong> and in <strong>September and October<\/strong>. That&#8217;s when the surrounding countryside blooms, temperatures hover around a pleasant 25 \u00b0C, and you can stroll the ancient sites without suffering. Summer between July and September means <strong>35 to 40 \u00b0C<\/strong> and marble that traps heat and radiates it back at you. If you have to go in summer, visit strictly early in the morning or towards the evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The nearest airport is in <strong>\u0130zmir (ADB)<\/strong>, about an hour from Sel\u00e7uk. From the UK you can fly direct to \u0130zmir with the likes of Pegasus or Turkish Airlines, or connect via Istanbul. From \u0130zmir there&#8217;s also a comfortable <strong>\u0130ZBAN commuter train<\/strong> combined with the line to Sel\u00e7uk \u2013 a cheap, hassle-free option. If you want to string Ephesus together with Pamukkale and the other ancient cities into a loop, the easiest thing is to <strong>hire a car<\/strong>; Turkey&#8217;s roads are in excellent shape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 Tip: If you fly into \u0130zmir and just want Ephesus without driving, stay right in <strong>Sel\u00e7uk<\/strong> and reach the ruins by minibus (<em>dolmu\u015f<\/em>) in a few minutes. The gate is only about 3 km away, but in the summer heat walking it is not advised.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u26a0\ufe0f Watch out for the electronic toll system <strong>HGS<\/strong>: Turkey&#8217;s motorways and bridges are tolled, and at the toll gates you <strong>can&#8217;t pay with cash or card<\/strong>. When hiring a car, make sure it has a working HGS chip \u2013 otherwise you risk a fine. The toll is usually deducted from the deposit when you return the vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"922\" height=\"2048\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-kde-se-ubytovat-u-efesu-751287a4-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"Where to stay near Ephesus\" class=\"wp-image-231703\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-kde-se-ubytovat-u-efesu-751287a4-scaled.jpg 922w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-kde-se-ubytovat-u-efesu-751287a4-135x300.jpg 135w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-kde-se-ubytovat-u-efesu-751287a4-700x1556.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-kde-se-ubytovat-u-efesu-751287a4-768x1707.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-kde-se-ubytovat-u-efesu-751287a4-691x1536.jpg 691w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-kde-se-ubytovat-u-efesu-751287a4-696x1547.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-kde-se-ubytovat-u-efesu-751287a4-1392x3094.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 922px) 100vw, 922px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Satirdan kahraman \/ Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_near_Ephesus\"><\/span>Where to stay near Ephesus<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><em>\ud83d\udca1 Tip for accommodation and experiences: We love searching for places to stay on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=Ephesus&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Booking.com<\/a>, which tends to have the best cancellation terms. For tickets, tours, and activities, it pays to compare and book through <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/s\/?q=Ephesus&amp;partner_id=MKZ64IS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">GetYourGuide<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For visiting Ephesus there are two bases with completely different moods. <strong>Sel\u00e7uk<\/strong> is an authentic inland town right by the ruins \u2013 cheap guesthouses, tea gardens, peace and quiet, and everything within walking distance or a short minibus hop. <strong>Ku\u015fadas\u0131<\/strong>, on the other hand, is a lively seaside resort with a port, beaches, and big resorts; it&#8217;s ideal if you want to pair the ancient sites with some swimming, but expect crowds and a longer trip to Ephesus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some specific tips for tried-and-tested places to stay near Ephesus (you can compare bookings and prices in one click via Stay22, which scans for the best deal across <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Booking.com\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/doporucujeme\/booking-com-2\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">Booking.com<\/a>, Airbnb, and more):<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=efes&amp;hotelname=Ayasoluk%20Hotel&amp;address=Sel%C3%A7uk%2C%20Turecko\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Ayasoluk Hotel<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 a boutique hotel in Sel\u00e7uk with a celebrated rooftop restaurant a stone&#8217;s throw from the Basilica of St. John; atmosphere and top-notch reviews.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=efes&amp;hotelname=Hotel%20Kalehan&amp;address=Sel%C3%A7uk%2C%20Turecko\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Hotel Kalehan<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 a traditional hotel with a garden and pool below Ayasuluk Castle; peace and character a few minutes from the ruins.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=efes&amp;hotelname=Nilya%20Hotel&amp;address=Sel%C3%A7uk%2C%20Turecko\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Nilya Hotel<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 a cosy boutique guesthouse in historic stone houses; ideal for couples.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=efes&amp;hotelname=Hotel%20Bella&amp;address=Sel%C3%A7uk%2C%20Turecko\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Hotel Bella<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 a popular family-run hotel by the Basilica of St. John with Turkish carpets and a rooftop terrace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=efes&amp;hotelname=Charisma%20De%20Luxe%20Hotel&amp;address=Ku%C5%9Fadas%C4%B1%2C%20Turecko\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Charisma De Luxe Hotel<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 a five-star hotel with sea views and pools; for those who want to pair the ancient sites with a beach.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=efes&amp;hotelname=Korumar%20Ephesus%20Beach%20%26%20Spa%20Resort&amp;address=Ku%C5%9Fadas%C4%B1%2C%20Turecko\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Korumar Ephesus Beach &amp; Spa Resort<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 a luxury spa resort right by the sea; for the demanding and for families on the beach.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 Tip: For peace and atmosphere choose <strong>Sel\u00e7uk<\/strong>; for beach and all-inclusive go for <strong>Ku\u015fadas\u0131<\/strong>. Either way, look for a rating of 8.5+ with plenty of reviews and book ahead \u2013 in season the best value-for-money places fill up months in advance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_tips_for_things_to_see_in_Ephesus_and_around\"><\/span>13 tips for things to see in Ephesus and around<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ephesus itself will easily keep you busy for a whole morning, but the area around Sel\u00e7uk hides so much more that you could happily spend several days here. Here are thirteen things that make it well worth turning the region into a proper stop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1488\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-knihovna-celsa-ikona-cele-antiky-63585f4d.jpg\" alt=\"The Library of Celsus, an icon of all antiquity\" class=\"wp-image-231694\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-knihovna-celsa-ikona-cele-antiky-63585f4d.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-knihovna-celsa-ikona-cele-antiky-63585f4d-300x233.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-knihovna-celsa-ikona-cele-antiky-63585f4d-700x543.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-knihovna-celsa-ikona-cele-antiky-63585f4d-768x595.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-knihovna-celsa-ikona-cele-antiky-63585f4d-1536x1190.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-knihovna-celsa-ikona-cele-antiky-63585f4d-696x539.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-knihovna-celsa-ikona-cele-antiky-63585f4d-1392x1079.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Benh LIEU SONG \/ Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_The_Celsus_Library_an_icon_of_all_antiquity\"><\/span>1. The Celsus Library, an icon of all antiquity<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The icon of Ephesus and the most photographed spot on the whole Aegean coast is the <strong>Library of Celsus (Celsus Library, Ephesus, Turkey)<\/strong>. Its two-storey, richly decorated marble fa\u00e7ade with columns and statues stands at the end of the main avenue, positioned precisely to take your breath away. Built in the <strong>2nd century AD<\/strong>, it once held some 12,000 scrolls. Come early in the morning \u2013 by around ten the plaza in front fills to bursting and you won&#8217;t get a people-free shot anymore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1536\" height=\"2048\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-velke-divadlo-pro-25-000-divaku-4aa7761d.jpg\" alt=\"The Great Theatre for 25,000 spectators\" class=\"wp-image-231696\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-velke-divadlo-pro-25-000-divaku-4aa7761d.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-velke-divadlo-pro-25-000-divaku-4aa7761d-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-velke-divadlo-pro-25-000-divaku-4aa7761d-700x933.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-velke-divadlo-pro-25-000-divaku-4aa7761d-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-velke-divadlo-pro-25-000-divaku-4aa7761d-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-velke-divadlo-pro-25-000-divaku-4aa7761d-696x928.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-velke-divadlo-pro-25-000-divaku-4aa7761d-1392x1856.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1536px) 100vw, 1536px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Furkan Akkurt \/ Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_The_Great_Theatre_for_25000_spectators\"><\/span>2. The Great Theatre for 25,000 spectators<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Just around the corner from the library, the <strong>Great Theatre<\/strong> opens up, set into the hillside, with a capacity of an incredible <strong>25,000 spectators<\/strong>. Climb up to the top rows: from here you can see the whole length of the Arcadiane, the marble avenue that once led all the way to the harbour. <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"The Spot\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/doporucujeme\/the-spot-2\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">The spot<\/a> has a biblical dimension too \u2013 according to the New Testament, this is where the apostle Paul preached and stirred up an uproar among the worshippers of the goddess Artemis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-terasove-domy-bohate-smetanky-214d29e9.jpg\" alt=\"The Terrace Houses of the wealthy elite\" class=\"wp-image-231698\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-terasove-domy-bohate-smetanky-214d29e9.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-terasove-domy-bohate-smetanky-214d29e9-300x208.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-terasove-domy-bohate-smetanky-214d29e9-700x486.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-terasove-domy-bohate-smetanky-214d29e9-768x533.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-terasove-domy-bohate-smetanky-214d29e9-1536x1066.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-terasove-domy-bohate-smetanky-214d29e9-696x483.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-terasove-domy-bohate-smetanky-214d29e9-1392x966.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Bernard Gagnon \/ Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_The_Terrace_Houses_of_the_wealthy_elite\"><\/span>3. The Terrace Houses of the wealthy elite<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Opposite the Temple of Hadrian, an unassuming modern roof covers the hillside. Beneath it hide the <strong>Terrace Houses<\/strong> \u2013 the villas of the Ephesian elite of the day, complete with running water and underfloor heating. Entry is charged separately (<strong>\u20ac15<\/strong>), but <strong>those few extra euros are well worth it<\/strong>. You step into an air-conditioned space where archaeologists are piecing together stunning floor mosaics and wall frescoes \u2013 and where the big tour groups don&#8217;t come, so you can rest from the noise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 Tip: The Terrace Houses are a great escape zone thanks to the <strong>shade and air conditioning<\/strong>. When the midday sun is blazing outside, duck in here for half an hour among the mosaics and let the worst of the heat pass.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-curetova-trida-hadrianuv-chram-a-antic-px.jpg\" alt=\"Curetes Street, the Temple of Hadrian and the ancient toilets\" class=\"wp-image-231601\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-curetova-trida-hadrianuv-chram-a-antic-px.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-curetova-trida-hadrianuv-chram-a-antic-px-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-curetova-trida-hadrianuv-chram-a-antic-px-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-curetova-trida-hadrianuv-chram-a-antic-px-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-curetova-trida-hadrianuv-chram-a-antic-px-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-curetova-trida-hadrianuv-chram-a-antic-px-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-curetova-trida-hadrianuv-chram-a-antic-px-160x120.jpg 160w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-curetova-trida-hadrianuv-chram-a-antic-px-696x522.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-curetova-trida-hadrianuv-chram-a-antic-px-1392x1044.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: G\u00f6ksel KE\u015eEN \/ Pexels<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Curetes_Street_the_Temple_of_Hadrian_and_the_ancient_toilets\"><\/span>4. Curetes Street, the Temple of Hadrian and the ancient toilets<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The backbone of the whole city is <strong>Curetes Street<\/strong>, paved with marble and lined with the remains of shops, fountains, and statues. Along the way you&#8217;ll pass the elegant <strong>Temple of Hadrian<\/strong>, with a relief of the goddess Medusa above the entrance, and nearby one of the great curiosities \u2013 the <strong>public latrines<\/strong>. The rows of marble seats side by side show that in ancient Rome the toilet was a social occasion, a place for chatting and striking deals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-ephesus-experience-museum-px.jpg\" alt=\"Ephesus Experience Museum\" class=\"wp-image-231602\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-ephesus-experience-museum-px.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-ephesus-experience-museum-px-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-ephesus-experience-museum-px-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-ephesus-experience-museum-px-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-ephesus-experience-museum-px-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-ephesus-experience-museum-px-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-ephesus-experience-museum-px-1392x928.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Taryn Elliott \/ Pexels<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Ephesus_Experience_Museum\"><\/span>5. Ephesus Experience Museum<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Admission to Ephesus now compulsorily includes the <strong>Ephesus Experience Museum<\/strong>, a modern multimedia exhibition close to the site. Large-scale projections and animations bring to life how the city looked at the height of its glory \u2013 with crowds in the streets, ships in the harbour, and temples in full splendour. It&#8217;s a pleasant contrast to the stony reality outside, and children especially love suddenly seeing Ephesus &#8220;alive&#8221;.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-artemidin-chram-zmizely-div-sveta-76df1046.jpg\" alt=\"The Temple of Artemis, a vanished wonder of the world\" class=\"wp-image-231700\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-artemidin-chram-zmizely-div-sveta-76df1046.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-artemidin-chram-zmizely-div-sveta-76df1046-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-artemidin-chram-zmizely-div-sveta-76df1046-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-artemidin-chram-zmizely-div-sveta-76df1046-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-artemidin-chram-zmizely-div-sveta-76df1046-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-artemidin-chram-zmizely-div-sveta-76df1046-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-artemidin-chram-zmizely-div-sveta-76df1046-1392x928.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Roy Egloff \/ Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_The_Temple_of_Artemis_a_vanished_wonder_of_the_world\"><\/span>6. The Temple of Artemis, a vanished wonder of the world<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Right in Sel\u00e7uk, a short walk from the ruins, you&#8217;ll find the remains of the <strong>Temple of Artemis<\/strong> \u2013 one of the <strong>Seven Wonders of the Ancient World<\/strong>, a structure larger than the Parthenon in Athens. Today, though, what awaits you is a rather melancholy sight: all that&#8217;s left of the vast temple is a <strong>single lonely column<\/strong> sticking up from a marshy meadow, with storks often nesting on top of it. Even so, it&#8217;s worth a stop \u2013 entry is free, and you&#8217;ll feel a chill realising what once stood here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-dum-panny-marie-meryem-ana-evi-3994aa9e.jpg\" alt=\"The House of the Virgin Mary (Meryem Ana Evi)\" class=\"wp-image-231701\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-dum-panny-marie-meryem-ana-evi-3994aa9e.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-dum-panny-marie-meryem-ana-evi-3994aa9e-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-dum-panny-marie-meryem-ana-evi-3994aa9e-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-dum-panny-marie-meryem-ana-evi-3994aa9e-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-dum-panny-marie-meryem-ana-evi-3994aa9e-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-dum-panny-marie-meryem-ana-evi-3994aa9e-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-dum-panny-marie-meryem-ana-evi-3994aa9e-1392x928.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: No machine-readable author provided. Mfryc assumed (based on \/ Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.5<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<!-- LKM_GYG_CARD start q=\"efes\" lang=\"en\" --><!-- LKM_GYG_CARD end -->\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"lk-stays-module\">\n<style>\n\/* \u2500\u2500\u2500 RESET PRO GUTENBERG \u2500\u2500\u2500 *\/\n.lk-stays-module * { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; }\n\n\/* \u2500\u2500\u2500 WRAPPER \u2500\u2500\u2500 *\/\n.lk-stays-module {\n  font-family: 'DM Sans', Georgia, sans-serif;\n  max-width: 100%;\n  margin: 2.5rem auto;\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #fdfaf5 0%, #fcf8f0 100%);\n  border: 1px solid #e8dfd4;\n  border-radius: 16px;\n  overflow: hidden;\n  box-shadow: 0 16px 48px rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.25), 0 4px 12px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);\n}\n\n\/* \u2500\u2500\u2500 HEADER \u2500\u2500\u2500 *\/\n.lk-stays-header {\n  position: relative;\n  padding: 24px 36px 24px;\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #c39f76 0%, #d4b188 60%, #c39f76 100%);\n  border-bottom: 1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.15);\n  display: flex;\n  align-items: center;\n  gap: 18px;\n}\n.lk-stays-header::before {\n  content: '';\n  position: absolute;\n  inset: 0;\n  background: url(\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg width='60' height='60' viewBox='0 0 60 60' xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%3E%3Cg fill='none' fill-rule='evenodd'%3E%3Cg fill='%23ffffff' fill-opacity='0.05'%3E%3Cpath d='M36 34v-4h-2v4h-4v2h4v4h2v-4h4v-2h-4zm0-30V0h-2v4h-4v2h4v4h2V6h4V4h-4zM6 34v-4H4v4H0v2h4v4h2v-4h4v-2H6zM6 4V0H4v4H0v2h4v4h2V6h4V4H6z'\/%3E%3C\/g%3E%3C\/g%3E%3C\/svg%3E\") repeat;\n  pointer-events: none;\n}\n.lk-stays-icon {\n  flex-shrink: 0;\n  width: 68px;\n  height: 68px;\n  border-radius: 14px;\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #fff 0%, #f9f6f0 100%);\n  display: flex;\n  align-items: center;\n  justify-content: center;\n  font-size: 26px;\n  box-shadow: 0 4px 12px rgba(0,0,0,0.15);\n}\n.lk-stays-eyebrow {\n  font-size: 10px;\n  font-weight: 500;\n  letter-spacing: 2.5px;\n  text-transform: uppercase;\n  color: rgba(255,255,255,.85);\n  margin: 0 0 5px 0;\n}\n.lk-stays-title {\n  font-family: 'Playfair Display', Georgia, serif;\n  font-size: 24px;\n  font-weight: 700;\n  color: #fff;\n  line-height: 1.2;\n  text-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0,0,0,0.1);\n  margin: 0;\n}\n.lk-stays-subtitle {\n  font-size: 13px;\n  color: rgba(255,255,255,.75);\n  margin: 4px 0 0 0;\n  font-weight: 300;\n}\n\n\/* \u2500\u2500\u2500 CARDS GRID \u2500\u2500\u2500 *\/\n.lk-stays-grid {\n  display: grid;\n  grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;\n  gap: 1px;\n  background: rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.12);\n}\n\n\/* \u2500\u2500\u2500 SINGLE CARD \u2500\u2500\u2500 *\/\n.lk-stay-card {\n  background: #ffffff;\n  padding: 26px;\n  display: flex;\n  flex-direction: column;\n  gap: 11px;\n  transition: all 0.3s ease;\n  text-decoration: none;\n  color: inherit;\n  position: relative;\n}\n.lk-stay-card:hover {\n  background: #fffbf5;\n  transform: translateY(-2px);\n  box-shadow: 0 8px 24px rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.18);\n  z-index: 1;\n}\n.lk-stay-card.featured {\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #fffdf9 0%, #fff9f0 100%);\n  box-shadow: 0 4px 16px rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.15), inset 0 1px 0 rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.1);\n}\n.lk-stay-card.featured:hover {\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #fffbf5 0%, #fff8ed 100%);\n  box-shadow: 0 8px 24px rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.25), inset 0 1px 0 rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.15);\n}\n\n.lk-stay-badge {\n  display: inline-flex;\n  align-items: center;\n  gap: 5px;\n  font-size: 10px;\n  font-weight: 500;\n  letter-spacing: 1.5px;\n  text-transform: uppercase;\n  padding: 5px 11px;\n  border-radius: 20px;\n  width: fit-content;\n}\n.badge-top     { background: linear-gradient(135deg, #c39f76 0%, #d4b188 100%); color: #fff; border: 1px solid #c39f76; font-weight: 600; box-shadow: 0 2px 8px rgba(195,159,118,0.3); }\n.badge-luxury  { background: rgba(195,159,118,.12); color: #c39f76; border: 1px solid rgba(195,159,118,.25); }\n.badge-boutique{ background: rgba(54,133,252,.08); color: #3685fc; border: 1px solid rgba(54,133,252,.2); }\n.badge-nature  { background: rgba(130,190,100,.1); color: #6b9c4a; border: 1px solid rgba(130,190,100,.2); }\n.badge-remote  { background: rgba(195,159,118,.12); color: #a67e50; border: 1px solid rgba(195,159,118,.25); }\n\n.lk-stay-name {\n  font-family: 'Playfair Display', Georgia, serif;\n  font-size: 18px;\n  font-weight: 700;\n  color: #111827;\n  line-height: 1.3;\n}\n.lk-stay-desc {\n  font-size: 13.5px;\n  color: #525252;\n  line-height: 1.65;\n  font-weight: 300;\n  flex: 1;\n}\n\n.lk-stay-meta {\n  display: flex;\n  align-items: center;\n  gap: 12px;\n  flex-wrap: wrap;\n  margin-top: 4px;\n}\n.lk-stay-price {\n  font-size: 13px;\n  color: #6b7280;\n}\n.lk-stay-price strong {\n  color: #c39f76;\n  font-weight: 500;\n}\n.lk-stay-stars {\n  color: #c39f76;\n  font-size: 11px;\n  letter-spacing: 1px;\n}\n\n\/* \u2500\u2500\u2500 CTA BUTTON \u2500\u2500\u2500 *\/\n.lk-stay-cta {\n  display: inline-flex;\n  align-items: center;\n  justify-content: center;\n  gap: 7px;\n  margin-top: 8px;\n  padding: 11px 20px;\n  border-radius: 8px;\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #3685fc 0%, #2a6fd9 100%);\n  color: #fff;\n  font-size: 13px;\n  font-weight: 500;\n  text-decoration: none;\n  letter-spacing: .3px;\n  transition: all .2s ease;\n  cursor: pointer;\n  border: none;\n  text-align: center;\n  box-shadow: 0 4px 12px rgba(54, 133, 252, 0.25);\n}\n.lk-stay-cta:hover {\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #2a6fd9 0%, #1e5bc4 100%);\n  transform: translateY(-1px);\n  box-shadow: 0 6px 16px rgba(54, 133, 252, 0.35);\n}\n.lk-stay-cta svg { flex-shrink: 0; }\n\n\/* \u2500\u2500\u2500 FOOTER \u2500\u2500\u2500 *\/\n.lk-stays-footer {\n  padding: 18px 36px;\n  background: linear-gradient(to bottom, #fdfaf5 0%, #f9f4ed 100%);\n  border-top: 1px solid rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.15);\n  display: flex;\n  align-items: center;\n  justify-content: space-between;\n  flex-wrap: wrap;\n  gap: 12px;\n}\n.lk-stays-footer-note {\n  font-size: 11.5px;\n  color: #6b7280;\n  font-weight: 300;\n  line-height: 1.5;\n}\n.lk-stays-footer-note a {\n  color: #c39f76;\n  text-decoration: none;\n  font-weight: 400;\n}\n.lk-stays-footer-note a:hover {\n  text-decoration: underline;\n}\n.lk-stays-all-btn {\n  display: inline-flex;\n  align-items: center;\n  gap: 6px;\n  font-size: 12.5px;\n  font-weight: 500;\n  color: #c39f76;\n  text-decoration: none;\n  border: 1px solid rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.35);\n  padding: 8px 18px;\n  border-radius: 8px;\n  transition: all .2s ease;\n}\n.lk-stays-all-btn:hover {\n  background: rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.08);\n  border-color: rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.5);\n}\n\n\/* \u2500\u2500\u2500 RESPONSIVE \u2500\u2500\u2500 *\/\n@media (max-width: 600px) {\n  .lk-stays-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n  .lk-stays-header { padding: 24px 20px; }\n  .lk-stays-footer { padding: 16px 20px; }\n  .lk-stay-card { padding: 22px; }\n  .lk-stays-title { font-size: 20px; }\n}\n<\/style>\n\n  <!-- HEADER -->\n  <div class=\"lk-stays-header\">\n    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/lukas-a-lucka.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"width: 75px; height: 75px; border-radius: 8px; flex-shrink: 0; object-fit: cover; display: block; margin: 4px 0;\" title=\"\">\n    <div class=\"lk-stays-header-text\">\n      <div class=\"lk-stays-eyebrow\">Luk\u00e1\u0161 and Lucie recommend<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stays-title\">Where to Stay in Ephesus<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stays-subtitle\">6 accommodations \u2014 wellness hotels, hotels and other lodging options<\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- CARDS -->\n  <div class=\"lk-stays-grid\">\n\n    <a class=\"lk-stay-card featured\" href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=efes&#038;hotelname=Ayasoluk%20Hotel&#038;address=Sel%C3%A7uk%2C%20Turecko\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-badge badge-top\">\u2b50 TOP CHOICE<\/span>\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-badge badge-nature\">\ud83c\udfe8 Hotel<\/span>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-name\">Ayasoluk Hotel<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-desc\">Boutique hotel in Sel\u00e7uk with a renowned rooftop restaurant near the Basilica of St. John; great atmosphere and excellent reviews.<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-meta\">\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-stars\">\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605<\/span>\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-price\">Check prices<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-cta\">\n        <svg width=\"14\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><path d=\"M18 13v6a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V8a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h6\"\/><polyline points=\"15 3 21 3 21 9\"\/><line x1=\"10\" y1=\"14\" x2=\"21\" y2=\"3\"\/><\/svg>\n        Check availability\n      <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n\n    <a class=\"lk-stay-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=efes&#038;hotelname=Hotel%20Kalehan&#038;address=Sel%C3%A7uk%2C%20Turecko\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-badge badge-nature\">\ud83c\udfe8 Hotel<\/span>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-name\">Hotel Kalehan<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-desc\">Traditional hotel with garden and pool below Ayasuluk Castle; peaceful and charming, minutes from the excavations.<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-meta\">\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-stars\">\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605<\/span>\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-price\">Check prices<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-cta\">\n        <svg width=\"14\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><path d=\"M18 13v6a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V8a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h6\"\/><polyline points=\"15 3 21 3 21 9\"\/><line x1=\"10\" y1=\"14\" x2=\"21\" y2=\"3\"\/><\/svg>\n        Check availability\n      <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n\n    <a class=\"lk-stay-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=efes&#038;hotelname=Nilya%20Hotel&#038;address=Sel%C3%A7uk%2C%20Turecko\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-badge badge-nature\">\ud83c\udfe1 Guesthouse\/B&#038;B<\/span>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-name\">Nilya Hotel<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-desc\">Cozy boutique guesthouse in historic stone houses; ideal for couples.<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-meta\">\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-stars\">\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605<\/span>\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-price\">Check prices<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-cta\">\n        <svg width=\"14\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><path d=\"M18 13v6a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V8a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h6\"\/><polyline points=\"15 3 21 3 21 9\"\/><line x1=\"10\" y1=\"14\" x2=\"21\" y2=\"3\"\/><\/svg>\n        Check availability\n      <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n\n    <a class=\"lk-stay-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=efes&#038;hotelname=Hotel%20Bella&#038;address=Sel%C3%A7uk%2C%20Turecko\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-badge badge-nature\">\ud83c\udfe8 Hotel<\/span>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-name\">Hotel Bella<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-desc\">Popular family-run hotel near the Basilica of St. John with Turkish carpets and rooftop terrace.<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-meta\">\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-stars\">\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605<\/span>\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-price\">Check prices<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-cta\">\n        <svg width=\"14\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><path d=\"M18 13v6a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V8a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h6\"\/><polyline points=\"15 3 21 3 21 9\"\/><line x1=\"10\" y1=\"14\" x2=\"21\" y2=\"3\"\/><\/svg>\n        Check availability\n      <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n\n    <a class=\"lk-stay-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=efes&#038;hotelname=Charisma%20De%20Luxe%20Hotel&#038;address=Ku%C5%9Fadas%C4%B1%2C%20Turecko\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-badge badge-nature\">\u2b50 Luxury<\/span>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-name\">Charisma De Luxe Hotel<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-desc\">Five-star hotel with sea views and pools; for those who want to combine ancient sites with the beach.<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-meta\">\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-stars\">\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605<\/span>\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-price\">Check prices<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-cta\">\n        <svg width=\"14\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><path d=\"M18 13v6a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V8a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h6\"\/><polyline points=\"15 3 21 3 21 9\"\/><line x1=\"10\" y1=\"14\" x2=\"21\" y2=\"3\"\/><\/svg>\n        Check availability\n      <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n\n    <a class=\"lk-stay-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=efes&#038;hotelname=Korumar%20Ephesus%20Beach%20%26%20Spa%20Resort&#038;address=Ku%C5%9Fadas%C4%B1%2C%20Turecko\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-badge badge-nature\">\ud83c\udf32 Resort<\/span>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-name\">Korumar Ephesus Beach &#038; Spa Resort<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-desc\">Luxury beachfront resort with spa; for discerning guests and families by the beach.<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-meta\">\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-stars\">\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605<\/span>\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-price\">Check prices<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-cta\">\n        <svg width=\"14\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><path d=\"M18 13v6a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V8a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h6\"\/><polyline points=\"15 3 21 3 21 9\"\/><line x1=\"10\" y1=\"14\" x2=\"21\" y2=\"3\"\/><\/svg>\n        Check availability\n      <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n\n  <\/div>\n\n  \n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_The_House_of_the_Virgin_Mary_Meryem_Ana_Evi\"><\/span>7. The House of the Virgin Mary (Meryem Ana Evi)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>On a wooded hill above Ephesus (a taxi will take you up) lies <strong>Meryem Ana Evi \u2013 the House of the Virgin Mary<\/strong>, a stone building where, according to tradition, the mother of Jesus spent the last years of her life. It&#8217;s an important <strong>pilgrimage site for both Christians and Muslims<\/strong>, visited by three popes. Even if you&#8217;re not religious, the peaceful forest setting, the spring of water, and the wall draped with thousands of wishes from visitors all over the world have a powerful charm of their own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-bazilika-sv-jana-a-isa-bey-mesita-px.jpg\" alt=\"The Basilica of St. John and the \u0130sa Bey Mosque\" class=\"wp-image-231605\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-bazilika-sv-jana-a-isa-bey-mesita-px.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-bazilika-sv-jana-a-isa-bey-mesita-px-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-bazilika-sv-jana-a-isa-bey-mesita-px-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-bazilika-sv-jana-a-isa-bey-mesita-px-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-bazilika-sv-jana-a-isa-bey-mesita-px-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-bazilika-sv-jana-a-isa-bey-mesita-px-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-bazilika-sv-jana-a-isa-bey-mesita-px-1392x928.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: G\u00fcl\u015fah T\u00fcfek\u00e7i \/ Pexels<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_The_Basilica_of_St_John_and_the_Isa_Bey_Mosque\"><\/span>8. The Basilica of St. John and the \u0130sa Bey Mosque<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Sel\u00e7uk itself hides three monuments that together tell the story of three eras. On Ayasuluk Hill stand the remains of the <strong>Basilica of St. John<\/strong>, where tradition holds the apostle John is buried, and above them a <strong>Byzantine castle<\/strong>. At the foot of the hill spreads the beautiful <strong>14th-century \u0130sa Bey Mosque<\/strong> with its tranquil courtyard. In just a few hundred metres you pass through antiquity, Christianity, and Islam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-sirince-vinarska-vesnice-v-kopcich-px.jpg\" alt=\"\u015eirince, a wine-making village in the hills\" class=\"wp-image-231606\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-sirince-vinarska-vesnice-v-kopcich-px.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-sirince-vinarska-vesnice-v-kopcich-px-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-sirince-vinarska-vesnice-v-kopcich-px-700x394.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-sirince-vinarska-vesnice-v-kopcich-px-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-sirince-vinarska-vesnice-v-kopcich-px-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-sirince-vinarska-vesnice-v-kopcich-px-696x392.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-sirince-vinarska-vesnice-v-kopcich-px-1392x783.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Duygu \/ Pexels<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Sirince_a_wine-making_village_in_the_hills\"><\/span>9. \u015eirince, a wine-making village in the hills<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Just a few kilometres above Sel\u00e7uk, tucked into the green hills, nestles <strong>\u015eirince<\/strong>, a picturesque village of stone houses and narrow lanes once founded by Greek settlers. It&#8217;s famous for its <strong>fruit wines<\/strong> \u2013 you can taste pomegranate, peach, or mulberry varieties here \u2013 and for stalls selling local jams, olive oil, and handicrafts. Have a late lunch here with views over the valley; it&#8217;s the perfect quiet counterpoint to bustling Ephesus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 Tip: Vegetarians will be more than happy in \u015eirince and in the Sel\u00e7uk taverns. Go for <strong>meze<\/strong> (cold starters), <strong>g\u00f6zleme<\/strong> (stuffed flatbreads with cheese or spinach), grilled vegetables, and salads with sheep&#8217;s cheese. The local fruit wines make a great souvenir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-priene-miletos-a-didyma-px.jpg\" alt=\"Priene, Miletus and Didyma\" class=\"wp-image-231607\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-priene-miletos-a-didyma-px.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-priene-miletos-a-didyma-px-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-priene-miletos-a-didyma-px-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-priene-miletos-a-didyma-px-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-priene-miletos-a-didyma-px-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-priene-miletos-a-didyma-px-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-priene-miletos-a-didyma-px-1392x928.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Fidan Jafarova \/ Pexels<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Priene_Miletus_and_Didyma\"><\/span>10. Priene, Miletus and Didyma<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>South of Ephesus lies a trio of less-visited ancient cities that make for a brilliant full-day loop. <strong>Priene<\/strong> will charm you with its perfectly preserved city plan on the mountain slopes and the photogenic <strong>Temple of Athena<\/strong>. <strong>Miletus<\/strong> was a powerful port with a giant theatre. And <strong>Didyma<\/strong> hides the monumental <strong>Temple of Apollo<\/strong> with its gigantic columns, one of the largest ancient sanctuaries of all. You&#8217;ll meet a fraction of the crowds here compared with Ephesus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1281\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-pamukkale-a-hierapolis-624997a1.jpg\" alt=\"Pamukkale and Hierapolis\" class=\"wp-image-231702\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-pamukkale-a-hierapolis-624997a1.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-pamukkale-a-hierapolis-624997a1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-pamukkale-a-hierapolis-624997a1-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-pamukkale-a-hierapolis-624997a1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-pamukkale-a-hierapolis-624997a1-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-pamukkale-a-hierapolis-624997a1-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-pamukkale-a-hierapolis-624997a1-1392x929.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: A.Savin \/ Wikimedia Commons, FAL<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_Pamukkale_and_Hierapolis\"><\/span>11. Pamukkale and Hierapolis<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>About three hours inland lies another visual icon of Turkey \u2013 <strong>Pamukkale<\/strong>, the &#8220;Cotton Castle&#8221;. Brilliant white travertine terraces filled with turquoise thermal water cascade down into the valley, and above them spreads the ancient spa city of <strong>Hierapolis<\/strong> with its large theatre and sprawling necropolis. Admission is <strong>\u20ac30<\/strong>. \u26a0\ufe0f You can only walk the terraces <strong><a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Littleshoes\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/doporucujeme\/littleshoes\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">barefoot<\/a><\/strong> (the surface is sharp and slippery in places), and to protect the white colour a large part of the terraces is deliberately kept dry \u2013 don&#8217;t expect a mountain flooded with water like in the old photos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u26a0\ufe0f The famous <strong>Cleopatra&#8217;s Pool<\/strong> in Hierapolis is <strong>closed<\/strong> for swimming in 2026 due to extensive maintenance, and a reopening date has not yet been set. Check before you travel so you&#8217;re not disappointed when you arrive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-pergamon-akropole-v-oblacich-px.jpg\" alt=\"Pergamon, an acropolis in the clouds\" class=\"wp-image-231610\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-pergamon-akropole-v-oblacich-px.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-pergamon-akropole-v-oblacich-px-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-pergamon-akropole-v-oblacich-px-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-pergamon-akropole-v-oblacich-px-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-pergamon-akropole-v-oblacich-px-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-pergamon-akropole-v-oblacich-px-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-pergamon-akropole-v-oblacich-px-1392x928.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Mert Erim \/ Pexels<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_Pergamon_an_acropolis_in_the_clouds\"><\/span>12. Pergamon, an acropolis in the clouds<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>North of \u0130zmir, <strong>Pergamon<\/strong> rises on a steep hill above the modern town of Bergama. A cable car carries you to the top, and the views over the countryside are fantastic. The biggest draw is the <strong>Pergamon theatre<\/strong>, set into a slope so sheer that the top rows leave anyone with vertigo gasping. Pergamon had the second-largest library of the ancient world after Alexandria, and it was here that <strong>parchment<\/strong> was invented.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1280\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-kusadas-pristav-plaze-a-holubi-ostrov-px.jpg\" alt=\"Ku\u015fadas\u0131: port, beaches and Pigeon Island\" class=\"wp-image-231611\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-kusadas-pristav-plaze-a-holubi-ostrov-px.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-kusadas-pristav-plaze-a-holubi-ostrov-px-300x240.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-kusadas-pristav-plaze-a-holubi-ostrov-px-700x560.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-kusadas-pristav-plaze-a-holubi-ostrov-px-768x614.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-kusadas-pristav-plaze-a-holubi-ostrov-px-1536x1229.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-kusadas-pristav-plaze-a-holubi-ostrov-px-696x557.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ephesus-kusadas-pristav-plaze-a-holubi-ostrov-px-1392x1114.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Serhat \/ Pexels<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Kusadasi_port_beaches_and_Pigeon_Island\"><\/span>13. Ku\u015fadas\u0131: port, beaches and Pigeon Island<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re longing to add some sea to your ancient sights, <strong>Ku\u015fadas\u0131<\/strong> is the obvious choice. This lively resort serves as the region&#8217;s main <strong>cruise-ship port<\/strong> and offers long beaches (the popular <strong>Ladies Beach<\/strong>), a promenade lined with caf\u00e9s, and the photogenic <strong>Pigeon Island (G\u00fcvercinada)<\/strong> with a small fortress linked to the mainland by a causeway. It&#8217;s a comfortable swimming base from which you can reach Ephesus and the southern trio of ancient cities by car in no time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_taste_around_Ephesus\"><\/span>What to taste around Ephesus<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Aegean cuisine is a little paradise for vegetarians \u2013 it revolves around <strong>olive oil, fresh vegetables, herbs, and cheeses<\/strong>. After a demanding day among the marble, don&#8217;t miss these classics:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Meze<\/strong> \u2013 a colourful array of cold starters: bean paste, braised cabbage, stuffed vine leaves <em>(yaprak sarma)<\/em>, yoghurt dips. An ideal meat-free dinner to share.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>G\u00f6zleme<\/strong> \u2013 a thin stuffed flatbread baked on a griddle, most often with cheese, spinach, or potato. The cheap and filling king of street food.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u00c7i\u011f k\u00f6fte<\/strong> \u2013 once meat-based, now commonly served in a meat-free version made of bulgur and spices, in a lettuce leaf with lemon.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Menemen<\/strong> \u2013 scrambled eggs with tomatoes, peppers, and spices, a classic Turkish breakfast scooped up with bread.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fruit wines from \u015eirince<\/strong> with a Turkish coffee or tea to finish \u2013 the perfect sweet ending.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Local gastronomy also offers grilled fish and lamb; these are regional specialities for non-vegetarians, while vegetarians will get by handsomely on meze and vegetable dishes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practical_tips_for_visiting_Ephesus\"><\/span>Practical tips for visiting Ephesus<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Be at the gate by 8:00 a.m. or after 3:30 p.m.<\/strong> Between ten and three, Ephesus is flooded by thousands of passengers from the cruise ships docked in Ku\u015fadas\u0131. In the morning head straight for the Library of Celsus; in the afternoon the crowds head back to the port and the sun isn&#8217;t so fierce.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u26a0\ufe0f <strong>Consider the Museum Pass.<\/strong> If you want to visit more sites, the <strong>Museum Pass Aegean (\u20ac95)<\/strong> is valid for 7 days and covers over 40 places, including Ephesus, Pergamon, and Pamukkale. It also lets you skip the ticket queues.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sturdy footwear is essential.<\/strong> The marble slabs have been polished by millennia of footsteps and are <strong>incredibly slippery<\/strong>, and the terrain is uneven. Leave the sandals and heels at the hotel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Litres of water and a hat.<\/strong> There&#8217;s almost no shade in the site, and the water stalls inside are overpriced. Bring at least 1.5 litres per person from the entrance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>No dress code.<\/strong> In Ephesus itself you can happily go in shorts and a T-shirt. But for the \u0130sa Bey Mosque and the House of the Virgin Mary, choose clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u26a0\ufe0f <strong>Watch out for fake guides.<\/strong> They&#8217;ll offer their services at the entrance; if you do want a guide, agree on the price in advance and check their official Ministry of Tourism licence.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_go_next_in_western_Turkey\"><\/span>Where to go next in western Turkey<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ephesus is the pinnacle of Aegean antiquity, but Turkey has so much more to offer. For fairytale rock spires and balloons head to <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/cappadocia-turkey-things-to-do\/\">Cappadocia<\/a>, for a city straddling two continents go to <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/istanbul-turkey-things-to-do\/\">Istanbul<\/a>, and for beaches and a lagoon make for <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/fethiye-blue-lagoon-turkey\/\">Fethiye and \u00d6l\u00fcdeniz<\/a>. A short hop from Ephesus lie the white terraces of <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/pamukkale-turkey-guide\/\">Pamukkale<\/a> with ancient <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/hierapolis-turkey\/\">Hierapolis<\/a>; for sun and resorts, head to <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/antalya-turkey\/\">Antalya<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_asked_questions\"><\/span>Frequently asked questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<p><!-- GYG:Efes --><\/p>\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1780987187000\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">How much does entrance to Ephesus cost in 2026?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The entrance fee at the main gate costs <strong>40 \u20ac<\/strong> and now mandatorily includes the Ephesus Experience Museum. <strong>Terrace Houses<\/strong> are paid separately for <strong>15 \u20ac<\/strong>. If you want to visit more ancient sites, it&#8217;s worth getting the <strong>Museum Pass Aegean (95 \u20ac)<\/strong> valid for 7 days, which covers Ephesus as well as Pergamon and Pamukkale, plus it saves you from waiting in line.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1780987187001\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Avoid_Crowds_in_Ephesus\"><\/span>How to Avoid Crowds in Ephesus?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Be at the gate right when it opens at <strong>8:00 AM<\/strong> and head straight to the Library of Celsus, or arrive after <strong>3:30 PM<\/strong>. Between ten and three o&#8217;clock, the site gets flooded with thousands of passengers from cruise ships docking in nearby Ku\u015fadas\u0131, and walking among them is significantly less pleasant.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1780987187002\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_it_worth_paying_the_extra_entrance_fee_to_the_Terrace_Houses\"><\/span>Is it worth paying the extra entrance fee to the Terrace Houses?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes. For an extra \u20ac15 you&#8217;ll get into the <strong>air-conditioned space<\/strong> with amazingly preserved mosaics and frescoes from the villas of Ephesus&#8217;s wealthy elite. Plus, large tour groups don&#8217;t come here, so you&#8217;ll get a break from the crowds on the main street \u2013 and in the summer heat you&#8217;ll also appreciate the shade and air conditioning.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1780987187003\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_it_better_to_stay_in_Selcuk_or_in_Kusadasi\"><\/span>Is it better to stay in Sel\u00e7uk or in Ku\u015fadas\u0131?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>It depends on what you expect from the trip. <strong>Sel\u00e7uk<\/strong> is an authentic, affordable and peaceful small town right next to the excavations, ideal for history lovers. <strong>Ku\u015fadas\u0131<\/strong> is a lively seaside resort with beaches and resorts, suitable if you want to combine ancient sites with swimming. From both places, it&#8217;s just a few minutes by car to Ephesus.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1780987187004\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_time_to_set_aside_for_Ephesus\"><\/span>How much time to set aside for Ephesus?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>For the Ephesus site itself, count on <strong>2 to 3 hours<\/strong>, and with the Terrace Houses and Experience Museum, easily half a day. If you want to explore Sel\u00e7uk as well (Temple of Artemis, House of the Virgin Mary, \u0130sa Bey Mosque) and the nearby village of \u015eirince, plan <strong>two full days<\/strong> for the region.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Ephesus, Turkey is the best-preserved ancient city in the world \u2013 stroll its marble streets between temples and the famous Library of Celsus. 13 tips for Ephesus and around: the Terrace Houses, the Temple of Artemis, the House of the Virgin Mary, Pamukkale, and how to cleverly dodge the cruise-ship crowds.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":231694,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","rank_math_title":"Ephesus Turkey: 13 Tips for the Ancient City 2026","rank_math_description":"Planning a trip to Ephesus, Turkey? Discover 13 tips for the ancient city and around \u2013 the Library of Celsus, Terrace Houses, Pamukkale, prices and crowd-free","rank_math_focus_keyword":"ephesus turkey","rank_math_seo_score":""},"categories":[332,320,550],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-237581","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-asia","8":"category-travel","9":"category-turkey"},"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/231588-knihovna-celsa-ikona-cele-antiky-63585f4d.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Lucie Kone\u010dn\u00e1","author_link":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/author\/lucie-konecna\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/237581","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=237581"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/237581\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":237745,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/237581\/revisions\/237745"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/231694"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=237581"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=237581"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=237581"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}