How To Reach Terrace Houses (Ephesus) In 2026 - 2027

Historical Site

Welcome to Terrace Houses, Ephesus, Turkey Travel Guide

Ephesus is an ancient city located on the west coast of Turkey, near the modern town of Selçuk. Among its many historical treasures, the Terrace Houses offer a unique glimpse into the luxurious lifestyles of wealthy Romans during the 1st to 7th centuries AD. Here's your definitive guide to reaching the Terrace Houses for an enriching travel experience.

Getting There

By Air: The nearest airport to Ephesus is İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB). From there, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or rental car to reach Selçuk, which is about 60 kilometers away.

By Train: There are regular train services from İzmir and other major Turkish cities to Selçuk. The train station is conveniently situated just a short walk from the town center where you can find minibuses to Ephesus.

By Bus: Selçuk is well connected by bus to cities like İzmir, Istanbul, and Ankara. Once in Selçuk, minibuses frequently run to Ephesus, dropping visitors close to the site's entrance.

By Car: If you're driving, take the E87 and D515 highways towards Selçuk, then follow the signs to Ephesus. Parking is available near the site.

Don't forget to check the opening hours in advance as they may change due to special events or maintenance work:

Tuesday to Sunday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (summer)
Tuesday to Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (winter)

Note: There are two entrances to Ephesus: the Upper Gate (near the House of the Virgin Mary) and the Lower Gate (near Selçuk). The Terrace Houses are situated midway, so you can choose which way to start your tour based on your preferences.

Things to Remember

Before you embark on your journey to Terrace Houses, remember to:

Wear comfortable walking shoes as Ephesus is a vast site with uneven surfaces.
Carry water and sun protection, especially in the summer months.
Consider hiring a local guide or getting an audio guide to enrich your visit with historical insight.
Allocate at least half a day to explore the site thoroughly, including the Terrace Houses, which require a separate ticket.

By following this guide, you can ensure a smooth trip to the Terrace Houses and enjoy a walk through history in one of Turkey's most fascinating archaeological sites.