Independent travel and view of the city of Ephesus! History of the city of Ephesus Ephesus (Greek φεσος, Latin...
Ephesus (Greek φεσος, Latin Ephesus) is an ancient Greek city located on the west coast of Asia Minor, near the modern city of Selcuk in Turkey, in the province of Izmir.It was one of the greatest centers of the ancient world - an economic, religious and cultural hub of the Eastern Mediterranean.
The city was famous:
The Temple of Artemis is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
The magnificent library of Celsus;
A large amphitheatre, seating up to 25,000 spectators;
And, in a later period, by what the apostles Paul and John preached here.
Early Period and Mythological Basis
According to legend, Ephesus was founded in the XI century BC by immigrants from Attica under the leadership of Androclus, the son of the Athenian king Codra. The myth says that the oracle at Delphi told Androclus to build a city where "the fish and the boar would indicate the place." On the site of the future city, the fish fell out of the fire and set fire to the bush, because of which the boar ran out - so Androcles understood the omen.
But archaeological finds show that the settlement existed as early as the II millennium BC, when Luwians and Carians lived here, as well as Greek Ionians who came later.
Archaic and Classical Periods (VIII-IV centuries BC)
By the eighth century B.C. Ephesus becomes the wealthy port city of Ionia. Here is built the great temple of Artemis (about 560 BC), one of the most grandiose in antiquity:
The length is about 115 m.
55 m wide,
more than 120 columns with a height of about 18 m.
The temple served not only as a religious center, but also as a bank and refuge: its sacred lands were a zone of immunity.
In the VI century BC. e. the city came under the rule of the Lydian king Croesus, who, according to Herodotus, donated funds to decorate the temple of Artemis. Later, Ephesus came under Persian rule, retaining a certain autonomy.
During the Ionian Uprising (499-494 BC) Ephesus played a significant role as a transshipment point for Greek forces, but after the defeat of the uprising, it submitted to the Persians.
Hellenistic period (IV-I centuries BC)
After the campaigns of Alexander the Great (334 BC) Ephesus was liberated from Persian rule. Alexander visited the city and offered to finance the restoration of the temple of Artemis, burned by Herostratus, but the Ephesians refused, saying that "it is not proper for a god to build a temple for another goddess."
Later, Ephesus became part of the states:
First under the rule of the Diadochs, Alexander's successors,
Then under Lysimachus, who moved the city closer to the sea and gave it a new planning device (circa 290 BC).
Under the Seleucids and Attalids, the city developed as a major trading port.
Roman period (133 BC – IV century AD)
In 133 BC. Ephesus, together with the kingdom of Pergamum, came under the rule of the Roman Republic. From this moment begins the golden age of Ephesus.
The city became the capital of the province of Asia, the main port of Asia Minor and the richest city of the eastern part of the empire. An estimated population of up to 250,000 was one of the largest cities in the ancient world.
During this period, construction was carried out:
The library of Celsus (II century AD) is the third largest in the ancient world after Alexandria and Pergamon;
The Bolshoi Theatre, which accommodated up to 25,000 spectators;
Agora, baths, fountains, marmur street, stadium and many temples.
Ephesus also became the center of early Christianity.
Here the apostle Paul preached, having arranged famous clashes with the priests of Artemis;
Here, according to legend, the Virgin Mary lived under the care of the Apostle John;
The Third Ecumenical Council was held here (431 AD).
Late antiquity and decline
After the fourth century A.D. Ephesus gradually lost importance due to:
The introduction of the harbor with silt of the Kaistr River (modern Menderes) - the sea retreated for several kilometers.
Earthquakes destroyed the city (especially in 262 and 614 AD).
Arab invasions in the VII-VIII centuries, after which life moved to the fortified hills.
By the Byzantine period, Ephesus had become a small settlement. After the Turkish conquest (XIV century), the city was finally deserted.
Ephesus today
Today, the archaeological complex of Ephesus is one of the best preserved ancient cities in the world. Here you can see:
facade of the Library of Celsus,
The Great Theatre,
The ruins of the Temple of Artemis,
The Kuret road with marble slabs,
Baths, fountains, temples, houses of nobility with mosaics,
St. John’s Basilica on the hill of Ayasoluk.
Ephesus is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List (2015).
Ephesus is not just an open-air museum. This is a journey through time: here you can literally touch history, see the ruins that almost completely preserved the layout of the ancient city, and imagine how life boiled more than two thousand years ago.
Atmosphere and impressions
When you enter through the gates of the ancient city, you are greeted by wide marble roads decorated with columns, statues and fountains. Above you is the blue sky of the Aegean coast, and ahead are majestic facades, like scenery for a movie about Rome.
There is no sense of "ruins" - on the contrary, Ephesus is alive. He whispers at every turn:
“Look what the world was like when civilization was born.”
Library of Celsus
One of the most beautiful ancient buildings in the world. Its facade – the symbol of Ephesus – amazes with the grace of columns and statues. It once held more than 12,000 scrolls and was considered the third largest library in antiquity.
The Grand Theatre
A grandiose building that could accommodate up to 25,000 spectators. Dramas, gladiatorial fights and performances took place here, and later the sermons of the Apostle Paul. Climbing the upper rows, you will see a stunning view of the entire valley.
Temple of Artemis
From the once majestic wonder of the world, only one column remains, but the spirit of its greatness is still felt. The temple was once a huge center of worship, wealth and art.
Agoras, Baths and Houses of Nobility
Walking along the Kuret Road, you can see fountains, temples, sanctuaries and houses of wealthy Ephesians with beautifully preserved mosaics and frescoes. Each detail shows the high level of culture and luxury of the ancient city.
House of the Virgin Mary
In the vicinity of Ephesus, on Mount Bulbul, there is a shrine - the House of the Virgin, where, according to legend, she spent the last years of her life. The place is quiet, green, filled with a special spiritual peace.
1. High-end resorts (4-5★)
Such hotels are most often located closer to the coast (Pamuchak Beach) or have their own infrastructure: swimming pools, spas, all-inclusive. Suitable for relaxation with comfort, families or those who want "everything and all at once." Example: Labranda Ephesus Princess is a large resort complex with a beach, park, swimming pools and a high level of service.
2. Mid-range hotels (3-4★)
Cozy hotels in the center of Selcuk, with breakfast, good location - closer to the railway station, buses, to the town. A good option for tourists who want to be in a comfortable place, but do not pay for the suite. Example: Ephesus Centrum Hotel - located in Selcuk itself, easy to get to, with good reviews.
3. Budget options / guest houses / boarding houses
For budget travelers, or those who value simplicity, ease of accommodation and access to major attractions. Often these are small hotels or guest houses with a minimum set of services. Examples:
Homeros Pension & Guesthouse is a budget option.
Anz Guest House Pansiyon is also among the low-cost offers.
Ephesus is not just one object, but a complex of ancient monuments located around the modern city of Selçuk in Turkey. Everything is quite compact, so many tourists go around everything in one busy day - on foot, by taxi or with a guide.
1. The Ancient City of Ephesus (Ephesus Ancient City)
The main pearl of the region is the archaeological park Ephesus, included in the UNESCO list. There are many magnificent buildings on its territory:
The library of Celsus is one of the symbols of antiquity, with a beautiful facade.
The Great Theatre (up to 25,000 spectators) is the place where the Apostle Paul spoke.
Temple of Hadrian, Fountain of Trajan, Odeon, Agora.
Terraces of houses (Terrace Houses) with frescoes and mosaics - an example of ancient luxury.
Kuretov Road, Marble Street, Hercules Gate.
Time for inspection: 2-3 hours minimum.
Tip: Come early in the morning - fewer tourists and a soft light for photos.
How to get there
From Selchuk - only 3 km, you can reach:
on foot (about 30-40 minutes),
by taxi (5-10 minutes, about 100-150 TRY),
on the dolmus (minibus from the city center or bus station - the inscription Efes).
From Kusadasi - about 20 km, 25 minutes by car or bus.
2. Temple of Artemis (Temple of Artemis)
Historical background
Once it was one of the Seven Wonders of the World - a grand temple built in honor of the goddess Artemis. Today, only one column and part of the foundation remain, but the site is still impressive in its historic scale and atmosphere.
Location: 1 km north of the center of Selcuk.
Examination: 10-15 minutes.
Tip: convenient to visit on the way from the city to the ruins of Ephesus or the museum.
How to get there
Walking from the center of Selchuk - 10-15 minutes.
Taxi, 5 minutes.
Tour buses often make a short stop here.
3. Museum of Ephesus (Ephesus Museum)
A modern, compact museum, where the best finds from archaeological excavations are collected:
Original statues of Artemis of Ephesus,
sculptures of emperors,
Mosaics and household items found in the homes of the nobility.
Address: Atatürk Mah. Uğur Mumcu Sevgi Yolu, Selçuk.
Working hours: daily, usually 08:30-18:30 (summer longer).
Ticket: Separate from the entrance to the archaeological area.
How to get there
Located in the center of Selchuk, near the railway station and bus station.
Walk 5-10 minutes from most hotels.
4. Basilica of St. John (Basilica of St. John)
According to legend, the Apostle John spent the last years of his life here and was buried here. Basilica of the VI century, built by Emperor Justinian, stands on the hill of Ayasoluk, from where the panorama of the city opens.
Location: center of Selcuk, right under the fortress.
Inspection: 30-45 minutes.
Tip: Climbing the fortress (Ayasuluk Kalesi) will give you the best view of the valley of Ephesus.
How to get there
Walking from the city center (5-10 minutes).
From Ephesus – by taxi (about 5 minutes).
5. House of Virgin Mary (Meryem Ana Evi)
On the mountain Bulbul (Bülbül Dağı) there is a shrine where, according to Christian tradition, the Virgin Mary lived under the care of the Apostle John. The place is recognized by the Catholic Church, pilgrims from all over the world come here annually.
Distance: about 9 km from Ephesus, in the mountains.
Working hours: 08:00-17:00.
Entrance is about 100 TRY.
How to get there
By taxi from Selcuk (15-20 minutes).
On tour buses.
By rented car: convenient road with signs Meryem Ana Evi.
6. Pamucak Beach (Pamucak Beach)
The sandy beach 7 km from Ephesus is a great place to refresh yourself after exploring the ruins. There are several hotels and campgrounds, including the Labranda Ephesus Princess and Aqua Fantasy.
Location: north of Kusadasi, along the Aegean coast.
Tip: can be combined with a visit to the Aqua Fantasy Aquapark.
How to get there
From Selchuk - by dolmus or taxi (10-15 minutes).
From Kusadasi - also on dolmus, they run every 20-30 minutes.
Transport accessibility of the city
Nearest airports
Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) - about 60 km, 1 hour by car or train.
Direct flights from Istanbul, Ankara, Europe.
From the airport, you can take the İZBAN commuter train to Selçuk station (with a transfer to Torbalı).
Trains.
İZBAN and TCDD trains run between Izmir, Torbala, Tiras, Selchuk and Denizli. Train Izmir → Selchuk – about 1.5 hours, ticket ~60 TRY.
Buses.
From Kusadasa, Izmir, Pamukkale - regular buses and minivans (dolmush).
Selçuk Otogar Bus Station is located in the city centre.
Rent a car / taxi
You can rent a car in Izmir, Kusadasy or directly in Selchuk.
Taxis are convenient for short routes: Ephesus, House of the Virgin Mary, beach.
1. The Ephesus Opera and Ballet Festival
It is held in summer – usually from late June to mid-July. The main venue is the ancient theater of Ephesus, which creates a unique atmosphere: performances are held in the open air among ancient columns. The program includes opera, ballet, symphony concerts, participation of international artists.
Tip: Book your tickets in advance and arrive early - by the beginning of sunset, the theater is full.
2. Camel Wrestling Festival (Camel Wrestling Festival)
One of the most colorful and ancient Turkish spectacles. It is held annually on the third Sunday of January at the arena near Pamuchak beach, near Selchuk. Residents from all over the Aegean region come to the festival: music is played, street food is prepared, a craft fair is held. The festival reflects the rural culture of the region and attracts tourists who want to see authentic Turkish action.
Tip: in winter it can be cool - take warm clothes and waterproof shoes.
3. Music and cultural festival "Here Ephesus!" (What a Fest)
A modern festival combining music, art and street culture. Takes place in July in the city of Selcuk and its surroundings. For several days there are open-air concerts, exhibitions, master classes and evening parties. This is one of the brightest summer events, especially popular among young people.
Tip: Housing at this time buys up quickly, so book hotels in advance.
4. Selçuk Liberation Festival (Selçuk Liberation Festival)
September 8 is the day of liberation of the city from occupation in 1922. On the streets there are festive parades, exhibitions, concerts and tastings of local dishes. The main square is decorated with flags, in the evening there are performances of famous Turkish artists and fireworks. This is a warm, family-friendly holiday, in which the whole city turns into one big stage.
Tip: September is the perfect time to visit: comfortable weather and a rich program of events.
5. The Ephesus Cultural Road Festival
Takes place in late October – early November and is dedicated to art, history and modern culture. The festival includes exhibitions, lectures, theater productions, street concerts and master classes. The main sites are located in museums, cultural centers of Selcuk and among the ancient ruins of Ephesus. The festival attracts artists and creative teams from all over Turkey.
Tip: At this time, the evenings are already cool, so you should take a light jacket.
Other interesting events and holidays
Easter services and pilgrimages (Easter Pilgrimage) - in April and May, especially in the area of the House of the Virgin Mary.
National Holidays of Turkey - April 23 (Children's Day), May 19 (Youth and Sports Day), August 30 (Victory Day), October 29 (Republic Day). These days there are concerts, parades and fireworks.
Summer Concerts in Kuşadası are popular artists performing on beaches and outdoor areas.
Local Food & Craft Fairs are held all year round, where you can taste local wine, olive oil and sweets.
Ephesus is located on the west coast of Turkey, in the Aegean region, near Izmir and the resort town of Kusadasi. The climate here is Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, humid winters. The average annual air temperature is about +20 ° C, and the sun shines more than 300 days a year.
Spring (March-May)
Air temperature:
March: +16... +20°C
April: +20... +25° C.
May: +24... +28°C
Water temperature:
March: +17° C.
April: +19° C.
May: +21... +22°C
Weather and features: Spring is one of the best times to travel. Nature blooms, fields are covered with greenery and flowers, the weather is mild, without exhausting heat. This is an ideal period for excursions to the ruins of Ephesus, walks in Selcuk, visits to the House of the Virgin Mary and mountain valleys.
Travel advice: Take light clothes during the day and a windbreaker for the evening - it can be cool in the evenings.
Recommended season for excursion rest.
Summer (June - August)
Air temperature:
June: +30... +33°C
July: +33... +37° C.
August: +32... +36°C
Water temperature:
June: +23... +25° C.
July: +26... +27°C
August: +27... +28°C
Weather and features: Summer is hot and sunny. There is almost no rain, the sky is clear, the sea is warm. This is a high tourist season: festivals, concerts and holidays are held. Many tourists stop in Kusadasi, combining a beach holiday with a visit to Ephesus.
Travel advice: Plan excursions in the morning or towards the evening when the sun is milder. It is better to rest by the sea during the day.
The best season for beach holidays and festivals.
Autumn (September-November)
Air temperature:
September: +28... +30°C
October: +24... +26°C
November: +19... +22°C
Water temperature:
September: +26° C.
October: +23° C.
November: +20° C.
Weather and features: Autumn is a calm and comfortable time: the heat goes away, the sea remains warm, there are fewer tourists. Perfect for combining excursions and swimming. In September, festivals and holidays are held, including Selcuk Liberation Day.
Travel advice: October is particularly good - prices are lower, the weather is mild, grape plantations and olive groves in their prime.
The best season for comfortable rest and excursions.
Winter (December to February)
Air temperature:
December: +15... +17° C.
January: +12... +15° C.
February: +13... +16°C
Water temperature:
December: +18 oh C.
January: +17° C.
February: +17° C.
Weather and features: In winter, Ephesus is mild and relatively warm. Sometimes it rains, but snow is rare. Few tourists, quietly, you can walk through archaeological sites without crowds. It is in winter that the Camel Combat Festival is held, one of the most colorful events in the region.
Travel advice: Suitable for quiet travel, photo tours and cognitive excursions. Take a light jacket and an umbrella.
The best season for cultural and ethnographic tourism.
Ephesus and the neighboring town of Selcuk is a tourist center with a rich history and cultural heritage. Although it is a very welcoming place, knowing basic norms of communication and respecting local customs will help you better understand Turkish culture and avoid misunderstandings.
Language of communication
Official language: Turkish.
In Ephesus and Selchuk, where there are many tourists, English is also common, especially in hotels, restaurants, museums and guides.
In resort areas (such as Kusadasi), staff often understand Russian, German and French, although proficiency levels may vary.
Turks appreciate it when foreigners try to say at least a few words in Turkish - it immediately appeals to friendliness.
Traditions and etiquette of communication
The Turks are hospitable and respectful people. Communication here is built on warmth, respect and politeness.
Basic rules:
Greeting: It is customary to say hello to the words Merhaba and a slight nod. Handshaking is acceptable, especially between men. A woman is only given a hand if she initiates herself.
Address: People older than themselves are treated with respect:
Bey (for example, “Ahmet Bey”)
To the woman – Hanım (“Ayşe Hanım”).
Hospitality: If you are offered tea or coffee, politely accept at least one cup. Failure without explanation can be perceived as coldness.
Gestures and facial expressions: Do not point your finger or make sharp gestures – this may be considered rude. When talking, it is customary to look the interlocutor in the eyes - this is a sign of respect.
Address to the elders: The Turks have great respect for age. When dealing with the elderly, be especially polite, do not interrupt or sit down until the elder offers.
Religious and cultural norms
Ephesus is a historical and cultural region with Muslim traditions, but it is open and tolerant to tourists. There are certain rules of conduct in public places:
Clothes:
Light clothing can be worn in everyday life, especially in tourist areas.
When visiting mosques, monasteries or the House of the Virgin Mary, shoulders and knees should be covered.
Women should wear a headscarf when entering the mosque.
In mosques and some houses, shoes are removed before entering.
In tourist areas, wine and beer are available in cafes and hotels, but drinking alcohol on the street is not customary. On religious holidays (for example, Ramadan), it is better to refrain from displaying food and drink in public during the day.
Excessive displays of feelings (kissing, hugging) in public places can be perceived disapproving, especially in small cities.
Laws and regulations for tourists
Documents: Always carry a copy of your passport or ID and keep the original in your hotel safe. The police may ask for an ID during the check.
Photography:
It is allowed to shoot sights, but do not photograph people without permission.
At mosques and religious sites, filming is sometimes limited - check before entering.
Archaeological finds: It is strictly forbidden to export any antiquities, stones, coins and artifacts. There is a criminal penalty for violation.
Transport and traffic: Drivers in Turkey often drive fast, but pedestrians must cross the road only on the Zebra. For driving under the influence - heavy fines and deprivation of rights.
Smoking: It is forbidden to smoke in public places (restaurants, transport, hotels). There are special zones for this.
Money and tip: Currency is Turkish Lira (TRY). In restaurants and cafes, it is customary to leave 5-10% tip, in hotels - 1-2 euros for staff services.
Greetings and communication
Hello - Merhaba (Merhaba)
Good morning - Günaydın (Gunaydın)
Good afternoon - İyi günler (yi günler)
Good evening - İyi akşamlar (yi akşamlar)
Good night by Iyi geceler (Yi Gegeler)
Good-bye (the departing one says) - Hoşça kal (hoshcha kal)
Good-bye (the remainder speaks) – Güle güle (Gulé gulé)
How are you? - Nasılsınız?
All right, thank you - İyiyim, teşekkür ederim (Yiyim, Teshekür ederim)
Please - Lütfen (Lutfen)
Thank you - Teşekkür ederim (Tesekkür ederim)
Thank you very much - Çok teşekkür ederim (chok teşekkür ederim)
Sorry / Sorry - Affedersiniz (afedersiniz)
I don't understand - Anlamıyorum (anlamyoyorum)
Do you speak English? - Ingilizce biliyor musunuz?
Yes - Evet.
No - Hayır (khayyr)
At the hotel.
Do you have any spare rooms? - Boş oda var mı?
I booked a room - Rezervasyon yaptırdım (reserve of yaptyrdym).
How much is the room? - Oda ne kadar?
Can I see the room? - Odayı görebilir miyim?
I need a single room - Tek kişilik oda istiyorum (tekh kishilik oda istiyorum)
I need a double room - Çift kişilik oda istiyorum (chift qishilik oda istiyorum)
Is there Wi-Fi? - Wi-Fi var mı?
Where's breakfast? - Kahvaltı nerede?
When's departure? - Çıkış saati ne zaman?
Thank you for the hospitality - Misafirperverliğiniz için teşekkür ederim (misafirverliginez icin teshekur ederim)
In a cafe or restaurant
Menu, please - Menü lütfen (menu lutfen)
What do you recommend? - Ne tavsiye edersiniz?
I want it - Bunu istiyorum (bunu istiyorum)
Very tasty - Çok lezzetli (choc lazzetli)
Invoice, please - Hesap lütfen
One tea, please - Bir çay, lütfen (bir tea, lutfen)
One coffee, please - Bir kahve, lütfen (bir kahwe, lutfen)
No meat - Etsiz (etsis)
Without alcohol - Alkolsüz (Alkolsüz)
Thank you, everything was fine - Teşekkür ederim, her şey çok güzeldi (teshekur ederim, cher shei chok güzeldi)
Taxi or transport
- Taksi! (taxi)
Take me to Ephesus by Beni Efes’e Götürün (Beni Efese Götürün)
How much is the trip? - Ne kadar tutar?
Counter, please - Taksimetreyi açın, lütfen (Taximetreyi açın, lutfen)
Stop here - Burada durun (Burada durun)
I need a bus to Selçuk - Selçuk'a giden otobüs istiyorum (selcuk giden oobius istiyorum)
When's the bus? - Otobüs ne zaman?
On the market or in the store
How much does it cost? - Bu ne kadar?
It's expensive - Bu pahali (bu pahala)
Make a discount - İndirim yapar mısınız?
I'll take this -- Bunu alıyorum.
Can I try it on? - Deneyebilir miyim?
Do you have a different color/size? - Başka renk / beden var mı? (head Rank / Beden var we)
Thank you, I'm just looking - Teşekkür ederim, sadece bakıyorum (teshekur ederim, sadeje bakyorum)
In emergency situations
Help me! - Yardım edin!
I feel bad - Kendimi kötü hissediyorum (kendimi kötu hissediorum)
Call the doctor - Doktor çağırın (Dr. Chaaryn)
Call the police - Polisi çağırın (police chaaryn)
I lost my passport - Pasaportumu kaybettim (Kaibatim Passportumu)
Where's the pharmacy? - Eczane nerede?
I am allergic to Alerjim var (alerjim var)
Attraction sightseeing
Where is Ephesus? - Efes nerede? (Ephesus nerede)
It's beautiful! - Bu çok güzel!
Can I take a photo? - Fotoğraf çekebilir miyim?
Thank you for your help - Yardımınız için teşekkür ederim (Yardımınez icin tešekkur ederim)
You have a wonderful country - Ülkeniz çok güzel (Yulkeniz chok güzel)
See you later! - Görüşürüz!
1. Food and natural products
Olive oil (Zeytinyağı)
The main treasure of the Aegean region. It produces cold pressed oil, which is considered one of the best in Turkey. It is used for cooking, skin care and even cosmetics.
Best to buy:
on farms near Selcuk,
In specialized shops, where they offer tasting.
Tip: Choose an oil labeled "Soğuk Sıkım" - this means "cold pressed" and the best quality.
Wine from the village of Shirindje (Şirince)
10 km from Ephesus is the picturesque village of Şirince, famous for its homemade fruit wines. It’s not just a drink, it’s part of the Turkish hospitality culture.
Popular types of wine:
Nar Şarabı - pomegranate, rich and refreshing,
Vişne şarabı - cherry, sweetish-sour
İncir Şarabı is fig, thick and fragrant.
Usually these wines are sold in beautiful handmade bottles - a great gift to friends.
Honey and Herbs (Bal ve Bitkiler)
Local mountain honey (Dağ balı) has a dense texture and strong aroma of herbs. It is considered therapeutic - helps with colds, fatigue, strengthens immunity.
In the markets you can buy dry herbs:
Şalfei (Adaçayı) - for breathing and throat,
Kekik (thyme) - antiseptic and source of vitamins,
Lavanta (lavender) – calms and helps you sleep.
Oriental sweets
Turkey is a country of sweet tooth, and in Ephesus you can find real masterpieces of pastry art.
Try it:
Lokum - soft fragrant cubes with pistachios, nuts and fruits,
Helva - sweetness of sesame and sugar,
Kuru incir (Dried figs) is a symbol of the Aydin region.
Fındık ve fıstık are nuts and pistachios from southeastern Turkey.
2. Medicinal and natural remedies
Ephesus and the surrounding area are famous for eco-products and homemade cosmetics made according to ancient recipes.
Handmade soap (Zeytinyağlı sabun)
The real soap here is made by hand from olive oil. It is completely natural and suitable even for sensitive skin.
Popular species:
Defne sabunu - laurel soap, antiseptic and fragrant,
Gül sabunu - with rose water, refreshing and gentle,
Bal sabunu - soap with honey, nourishes and softens the skin.
Essential oils and rose water
Local shops offer oils of lavender, rosemary, mint, orange, eucalyptus - they are used for massage and aromatherapy. Gül suyu (pink water) is a natural tonic for the face and body, popular throughout Turkey.
Stone oil (Taş yağı)
A rare but interesting product is a thick mineral oil with herbs, which is used locally for pain in muscles and joints. It can be bought in pharmacy shops in Selcuk.
3. Souvenirs and handicrafts
Eye from the evil eye (Nazar Boncuğu)
The symbol of protection, luck and harmony is a blue amulet in the shape of an eye. The Turks believe it diverts evil energy. It can be found in the form of pendants, bracelets, key chains or even wall decorations.
Ceramics and amphorae
Ephesus is known for its workshops, where ceramic products with antique ornaments are made. You can buy miniature amphorae, painted plates, jugs - they will fit perfectly into the interior.
Textiles and embroidery
Local women create real masterpieces of cotton and linen. Pay attention to:
Pestemal is a lightweight bath towel.
Embroidered wipes, tablecloths, shawls,
Covered handmade with national patterns.
Turkish coffee and jezva
True Türk kahvesi (Turkish coffee) is a thick, fragrant drink brewed in cezve, a copper Turk with a long handle. In Ephesus, you can buy both coffee itself and gift sets with Turk and cups.
Ephesus and its surroundings are a calm and safe tourist destination. Here are friendly locals, developed infrastructure and attentive police. However, as in any other country, it is worth following basic precautions and knowing the basic rules of stay.
1. Documents required for travel
For citizens of most CIS countries (including Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, etc.) entry into Turkey without a visa under certain conditions.
Main documents:
A foreign passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
A return ticket is a confirmation that you plan to leave the country on time.
Confirmation of residence - hotel reservation or address of residence.
Medical insurance is required for entry (it can be checked at the border).
Money or bank card - in case of verification of financial solvency (optional, but desirable to have).
Tip: make copies of your passport and tickets (in paper and electronic form). The original passport is better stored in the hotel safe, and carry a copy or photo on your phone.
2. Health insurance and health safety
To enter Turkey, you need medical insurance covering treatment, ambulance and transportation. The minimum amount of coverage is 30,000 euros.
Insurance should include:
outpatient care,
hospitalization,
emergency dentistry,
Repatriation (in rare cases).
When applying to the hospital, you must present a passport and insurance policy. Most clinics in Selchuk and Izmir accept tourists and work around the clock.
3. Emergency services in Turkey
Since 2020, Turkey has a single emergency number - 112, similar to the European system. Calls are free from any phone, including foreign SIM cards.
Main numbers:
112 – Unified assistance service (police, ambulance, firefighters)
155 - Police (Emniyet Müdürlüğü)
156 Gendarmerie (in rural areas, including Ephesus)
110 - Fire protection
114 - Anti-poisoning / toxicological care
170 – Hotline for the protection of the rights of tourists
In tourist areas, there are tourist police (Tourism Police) - the staff speak English. In Selchuk and Izmir, they patrol near museums and attractions.
4. Communications and mobile operators
Turkey has three main mobile operators that provide sustainable connectivity and internet even in archaeological areas.
Turkcell is the best in terms of coverage, especially in rural areas (in the Ephesus area).
Vodafone Turkey is reliable and profitable at tariffs.
Türk Telekom is a budget option that works well in cities.
SIM cards are available for tourists:
can be bought at Izmir airport or in Selcuk communication salons;
You will need a passport to register the number;
The minimum cost of the launch package is about 600-800 liras (approximately 18-25 euros), including Internet traffic.
Turkey strictly controls the use of foreign phones: if you use your smartphone with a local SIM card for longer than 120 days, the device can be temporarily blocked. There are no restrictions for short trips (up to a month).
5. Term of stay of a tourist without a visa
For most citizens of the CIS countries there is a visa-free regime:
Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Kazakhstan up to 60 days without a visa
Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan, Moldova – up to 30 days without a visa
Total stay: no more than 90 days for every 180 days
If you plan to stay longer, you can apply for a tourist residence permit (İkamet) in Izmir or Kusadasi.
Create a query and local guides will offer you the best options
