11 Best Things to Do in Selcuk & Ephesus, Turkey (2024)
What is Selcuk known for?
Selcuk may only be on your list because of its proximity to the ruins of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. But there are more things to do in Selcuk while you’re there.
Perfect for history enthusiasts, this small town in the Izmir Province is a goldmine of history and religious architecture. Plus, it’s the location of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World!
As one of the must-visit tourist landmarks in Turkey, I finally made it here on my fourth trip to the country and absolutely loved it! Even though I’m not the biggest fan of historical ruins, I found Selcuk to be super charming, and the locals, oh so, hospitable.
Without further ado, here’s a list of things to do in Ephesus and Selcuk, Turkey.
Small Group Ephesus Tour
Best for History Buffs
Top Things to Do in Selcuk
Selcuk has a super interesting history that goes back thousands of years. From Anatolian civilizations to the Roman Empire, from early Christianity to the Ottoman Empire, Selcuk has played a major role in the history of Turkey and the world. That’s why you’ll find so many cool ruins there!
1. Learn the History of Ephesus
If you’re into history, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ephesus, is the perfect destination for you!
During the Hellenistic period, Selcuk was known as Ephesus and was a prominent Greek port city. But the city really hit its peak under Roman rule, with a whopping estimated population of 250,000 people!
List of the Best Ephesus Attractions
🏛 Library of Celsus
Arguably, the most famous attraction in Ephesus is the Library of Celsus. You know, that iconic postcard-worthy spot every tour operator uses as their advertising cover photo.
The beautiful façade was once the exterior of one of the largest libraries in Ancient Greece, home to over 12,000 scrolls. The library was built in the 2nd century AD and is an elaborate example of Roman architecture.
🏛 Grand Theatre
Another must-see attraction in Ephesus is the Grand Theatre, and it is grand. The Greeks built the theatre but later expanded by the Romans to hold up to 25,000 people, which is impressive even by today’s standards.
This open-air theater was used for various events such as concerts, plays, and gladiator battles. The theatre is still used today for concerts and other events.
🏛 Walk Down Curetes Street
Curetes Street is the main pedestrian-only walkway in Ephesus, lined with columns and many well-preserved buildings.
Walking down Curetes Street is like taking a step back in time, where you’ll pass by the usual establishments like the temple of Hadrian, the Trajan Brothels, ancient bathrooms, terraced houses, directional statues, etc.
🏛 The Terrace Houses
The Terrace Houses are where the 1%’ers of Ephesus used to live. The discovery of the mosaics and frescoes found in these houses made huge waves in the archaeological world.
And they’re still making money from it by charging extra to see the frescoes, like almost half the price of an already expensive Ephesus entrance ticket! Although there is a slightly cheaper combined ticket option.
🏛 Odeon Theatre
The Odeon Theatre is a smaller but well-preserved theater near the upper entrance. It’s actually one of the first buildings you’ll see when you stroll into Ephesus south entrance.It was built in the 2nd century AD and could seat up to 1,500 people.
2. The House of Virgin Mary
The House of the Virgin Mary is just near Ephesus’s south entrance. According to Christian tradition, this is where the Virgin Mary spent her last days. It is believed that St. John brought her to this house after the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
On a hillside, surrounded by beautiful gardens and olive trees, it is a peaceful and spiritual place where visitors can light candles and offer prayers. The house’s interior is simple, with a small altar and a statue of the Virgin Mary.
A spring is also nearby, which is believed to have healing powers.
If you plan to visit the Virgin Mary’s house, just remember that it’s a religious site where dressing modestly and showing respect is expected.
Many Ephesus tours like this one include a visit to this attraction too!
3. St. John’s Basilica
The basilica is located on the slopes of Ayasuluk Hill, under the Selcuk castle, right outside downtown Selcuk. The Basilica of St. John overlooks the whole town and the surrounding countryside and is a great spot for sunset photography.
Despite being a skeleton of its former self, the basilica is still a nice site for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. It has the remains of a big central nave, two aisles, and a transept. The basilica initially had a huge dome, but it sadly collapsed in an earthquake during the 14th century.
There is a fee to enter St. John’s Basilica.
4. Isa Bey Mosque
Isa Bey mosque, built in 1375, is a stunning example of Seljuk Turkish architecture. The mosque incorporates columns and stones from the ruins of Ephesus and the Temple of Artemis.
The Isabey Mosque is well-known for its stone carvings and stunning architecture. It’s got a courtyard with a prayer hall with a high dome. Unlike most mosques, this one was built asymmetrically.
Usually, entrance to the mosque is free. But, unfortunately, the Isabey Mosque has been undergoing renovation. And as of 2023, you can only admire its beauty from behind the scaffolding from the outside.
5. The Temple of Artemis
The Temple of Artemis was a massive temple built entirely from marble and was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today, only one reconstructed pillar and stacks of boulders remain in an empty field to the west of the center of Selcuk.
At its zenith, the temple had 127 columns, and today, the only remaining column is often topped by a stork’s nest.
The Temple of Artemis was dedicated to the Greek goddess Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, the wilderness, childbirth, and virginity.
The temple, constructed in the 6th century BCE, went through multiple destructions and reconstructions throughout the centuries. Eventually, it is claimed that a mob led by the Goths completely demolished it in 268 AD.
The Temple of Artemis is free to visit.
6. The Ephesus Museum
Located right by the town center, the Ephesus Archaeological Museum contains a collection of archeological artifacts from the ancient city. The exhibits range from pottery and coins to jewelry and sculptures.
The museum’s highlights include a collection of statues, like the famous Artemis statue, the head of Socrates, and the Priapos Statue.
7. Ayasoluk Castle
Ayasoluk Castle, also spelled “Ayasuluk Castle,” is a fortified Ottoman lookout fort on the castle hill of Seljuk.
To reach the castle, you need to climb a steep hill. And although the castle itself is not very well-maintained, the view from the top is pretty nice. From up there, you can see the surrounding hills, the town of Selcuk, and the Aegean Sea. It’s also an excellent spot to watch the sunset.
The castle is open to visitors daily but closes before sunset at 5:30pm. There is a small entrance fee to enter.
8. Cave of the Seven Sleepers
The Cave of the Seven Sleepers is located approximately two kilometers down a road from the ancient ruins of Ephesus. This small cave system has an interesting local folklore attached to it.
According to the legend, seven early Christian converts were persecuted by Emperor Decius and then sealed up by the emperor in this cave.
They were believed to have “slept” there for around 300 years and lived to tell the tale.
Explore the cave and see the small niches where the seven sleepers are said to have slept.
The cave is a bit further from Selcuk but still walkable, and you can combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Ephesus ruins.
9. Sirince Village
Get out of Selcuk with a trip to Sirince, an old Greek village less than 10 kilometers away from the city. The village, dubbed “the Tuscany of Turkey,” is set atop a mountain slope and is known for its Ottoman architecture and quaint cobbled streets.
The village’s highlights include its stone houses with tile roofs, colorful flowers adorning balconies and windowsills, and vineyards where you can enjoy a glass of wine.
Take some time to explore the village and visit local shops selling handicrafts, traditional clothing, and souvenirs. There are plenty of restaurants where you can taste homemade dishes and village breakfast platters.
Sirince is easily accessible by taxi or minibus from Selcuk, and you can easily spend a whole day exploring the village.
10. Saturday Market in Downtown Selcuk
Every week, the streets of downtown Selcuk come alive with tables of goods near the bus station, creating a bustling Saturday Market.
From fresh produce to handmade crafts, you’ll find it all at the Saturday Market. Taste traditional Turkish sweets, pastries, spices, and herbs to bring home and add to your cooking.
In addition to food, the market offers a wide variety of household items, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.
11. Day Trip to Pamukkale
Note that this is not the closest day trip from Selcuk, but if you are short on time, Pamukkale is worth seeing.
Pamukkale, which translates to “Cotton Castle” in Turkish, is about two and a half hours from Selcuk. It is a white mountain of cascading hot springs and travertine terraces with milky pools – an Instagrammer’s dream!
You can climb the steps of the tiered white cliffs of Pamukkale to reach the top.The terrain is also home to the ancient city of Hierapolis and its well-preserved ruins, as well as Cleopatra’s pool.
To visit Pamukkale, booking a full-day tour with lunch and round-trip transportation is best. It will honestly be cheaper than you trying to organize it yourself since there’s no direct transportation to Pamukkale.
Where to Stay in Selcuk, Turkey
Selcuk is an ideal place to stay for seeing the Ephesus ancient city and surrounding tourist attractions.
Saint John Hotel
⭐ RATING: 9 out of 10 Stars | $$
Book a stay at Saint John Hotel, a traditionally decorated small hotel with balconies facing into a swimming pool centerpiece. In the heart of old Selcuk, it’s right next to the castle and within walking distance of historic sites. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a good breakfast provided every morning.
Ali Baba’s House
⭐ RATING: 9.1 out of 10 Stars| $
I stayed at Ali Baba’s House, and it was a great find! It’s centrally located in Selcuk, just a short walk from the bus station, the Ephesus Museum, and the Temple of Artemis. The owner is very friendly and hospitable. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with private bathrooms and a beautiful garden living room area. Plus, a traditional Turkish breakfast is included.
Food in Selcuk
When it comes to local cuisine in Selcuk, expect a delicious array of traditional Turkish dishes served everywhere.
- Kallinos Coffee: I spend two mornings here with the super friendly owner. The coffee shop has a great atmosphere. He has two locations, and one faces the front end of the St. John’s Basilica Gates. He even taught me how to make my own cappuccino.
- Ali Baba Kebab House: Owned by the same man as the hostel I stayed in, Ali Baba’s restaurant was tasty and cheap. Plus, it’s right next to the Ephesus Museum and the bus station.
- Cengiz Topel Road: Stroll along the pedestrian-only street in downtown Selcuk to find Yemekerli’s, pastry shops, watermelon trucks, and more. It’s a beautifully decorated street with a fountain at the end and a perfect spot for grabbing a cup of cay.
Getting Around Selcuk
Selcuk is relatively small and easy to navigate by foot. If you plan on visiting Ephesus or Sirince, you may need to consider other modes of transportation.
Minibus or Dolmushes
Selcuk has a local bus system that can take you to nearby towns and the main attractions. The buses are inexpensive and run on a regular schedule. You can pay in cash directly to the bus driver.
How far from Selcuk to Ephesus?
The distance from Selcuk to Ephesus is approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) to the south and north entrances.You can walk from Selcuk to Ephesus, but it’s a bit of a hike and can be challenging in the heat.The easiest way is to catch a ride to the upper entrance. Then, you can walk downhill through Ephesus and hop on a local bus back to Selcuk. The minibusses and cost 20 lira are only available at the lower entrance.
Inter-City Travel
By Bus
Busses are the most common way to travel between cities, with many bus companies from many cities all around the country.You can either go on an online booking website like obilet.com or just show up at the Selcuk bus station to buy your tickets in person.
Just make sure to bring your passport handy with you to show the officer.
By Train
Selcuk city center has a train station that connects you to Izmir and Denizli, which run several times daily.
If you want to go further, you may need to take a transfer line, which ends up taking much longer than the bus. However, in general, the train is cheaper than the bus.
Best Time to Visit Selcuk
Weather
The weather in Selcuk can be pretty hot and humid during the summer months, with temperatures often reaching 30°C or higher. If you prefer cooler temperatures, it’s best to visit Selcuk during the spring or fall when the weather is milder.
The winter months can be quite chilly, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C, but this can be a good time to visit if you’re looking for a quieter and more peaceful experience.
Crowds
Selcuk is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer when crowds can be large with tourist groups and cruise ships.
If you prefer to avoid crowds, visit Selcuk during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. You’ll still be able to enjoy the sights and attractions without dealing with the crowds.
Festivals and Events
Selcuk hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Selcuk Camel Wrestling Festival and the Selcuk-Ephesus International Festival. If you’re interested in attending one of these events, plan your trip accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions about Selcuk, Turkey
How long to spend in Selcuk?
Plan to spend two days and one overnight in Selcuk. Plan to spend a large part of one morning exploring the ancient city of Ephesus and its attractions. Spend the rest of the day in Selcuk town, visiting the Selcuk Museum, the Basilica of St. John, and the Isa Bey Mosque.
On the second day, head to Sirince or consider spending additional days visiting nearby destinations like the Pamukkale hot springs or the seaside town of Kusadasi.
Can you visit Ephesus without a tour?
Yes, you can visit Ephesus without a tour. The ancient city of Ephesus is open to the public, and you can explore it independently.
However, if you want to learn more about the history and significance of the site, consider hiring a licensed guide. A guide can provide valuable insights and information you might not learn on your own, or at least download an audio guide.
Is it better to stay in Kusadasi or Selcuk?
Kusadasi is a larger seaside town with many tourist amenities. Many cruise ships pass through here. Selcuk, on the other hand, is much quieter with a more relaxed atmosphere. It is a walkable home base to get to Ephesus.
Bucket List Worthy: Is Selcuk worth a visit?
Ephesus is, without a doubt, an incredible ancient site that shouldn’t be missed, and especially for independent travelers, Selcuk is the perfect home base to start from. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this town. It offered a bit of peace and quiet coming from the busy summer along Turkey’s Gold Coast.
Another great thing about Selcuk is its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. In western Turkey, I think I met some of the nicest locals here, with insane hospitality, always asking if I would like a cup of cay.
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