Ephesus

Ephesus is an ancient city in the Selçuk district of İzmir, 2–3 km from Selçuk town centre. Lysimachos, a general of Alexander the Great, founded the new city here in the 4th century BC. Under Rome it was the capital of the province of Asia. UNESCO added it to the World Heritage List in 2015.

The Library of Celsus was built in the early 2nd century AD by Celsus's son in his father's honour. Curetes Street passes the Temple of Hadrian. The Great Theatre stands on the hillside nearby. Terrace House 2, run as a separate unit, shows wall paintings and mosaics from wealthy Roman homes.

From İzmir, İZBAN trains run to Tepeköy, where you change for Selçuk. İzmir Airport is on the same line. Allow at least half a day. July and August highs in Selçuk average about 35 °C, so start early and carry water. Check current opening hours and tickets before you go.