Ephesus is an ancient Greek city in Asia Minor that attracts millions of people every year. Many travelers who visit Istanbul, also would like to visit Ephesus. In this post, I will talk about some different ways to get to Ephesus from Istanbul.
Where is Ephesus?
Ephesus is one of the twelve cities of Ionia in the classical Greek period. It is very close to a small city which is called Selcuk and it is located about 80 km south of the city of Izmir, which is on the coast of the Aegean Sea in the western region of Turkey.
If you want to be close to your accommodation preferences for your trip to Ephesus, you can choose the districts of Kusadasi or Sirince. But you can be sure that your transportation to many seaside districts in Izmir, such as Cesme, Alacati, will be short as well.
How far is Ephesus from Istanbul?
The distance between Istanbul and Ephesus is 337 miles (560 km) by driving and getting to Ephesus takes 6-7 hours by car depending on the speed.
When to travel to Ephesus?
Coldest time of the year is January and February. Average temperature these days are approximately 10 C /40 F. Almost never have any snow. Rainy season is in between October and April. It hardly rains in the summer time. The warmest time of the year is July and August. Midday temperature rises up to 43 C/110F. Best time to visit Ephesus is April, May, October, November. This is the time the weather is neither hot, nor cold.
How do I get from Istanbul to Ephesus?
Ephesus is the most important ancient city in Turkey as it’s considered as the birthplace of Greek civilization and myths in Minor Asia (west coast of Asian continent). Once upon a time, it was the main port in the Aegean Sea however today it’s an open-air museum in Selcuk district of Izmir province.
Izmir is the 3rd largest metropolis of Turkey with its multicultural and ethnic diversity along with natural beauties. Today Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport is one of the international airports which have direct and connecting flights with many European cities.
How long does it take from Istanbul to Ephesus?
You can take a 45 minutes domestic flight from Istanbul Airport (IGA) or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB). All domestic airline companies have a direct flight from big cities to Izmir. Upon arrival at Istanbul to Izmir Airport, you can take a 1 hour 30 minutes train ride to Selcuk or have a 1-hour private airport transfer or yellow taxi. If you are going only for a day tour, having private transfer and tour service is suggested otherwise using public transportation will waste most of your day.
How to get to Ephesus by train?
The ancient Anatolian city on the coast of Ionia.
The city was built in the 10th century BC and flourished especially during Roman period being the third largest city of Roman Asia Minor with upto 56000 population
Ephesus is three kilometers southwest of Selçuk town, at the south of İzmir Province. Closest train station is Selcuk train station.
The minibuses are running between Selcuk bus station and Ephesus regularly and frequently. Selcuk bus station is walking distance (600 mt) from Selcuk train station.
Getting to Ephesus by bus
Traveling by bus is one of the most preferred ways by those who want to go to Ephesus. Selcuk Bus Terminal is preferred because of its proximity to Ephesus. More than 20 bus services go to Selcuk Bus Terminal in one day at various bus terminals in Istanbul. You can easily go from Istanbul to Selcuk district with a bus ride that takes approximately 8 hours.
There are multiple bus companies that operate several bus services during a day. There are not huge differences between the bus companies. For this reason, you can buy a ticket within that hour, whichever time is best and suitable for you. The most preferred companies are especially Kamil Koc and Pamukkale. Both of them have offices in different locations in Istanbul. If you are staying on the European side of Istanbul you can use Esenler Bus Terminal and if you are on the Asian side of Istanbul you can use Dudullu Bus Terminal or Samandıra Bus Terminal in order to go to Selcuk bus terminal.
Getting to Ephesus by Car
If you prefer to drive from Istanbul to Ephesus, you should also remember that there are many places to visit on the road. I have to say that the roads along the route are safe and sound, including at night.
Departing from Istanbul, it will take approximately 6-7 hours to reach Ephesus. There are two different route you can use to reach Ephesus from Istanbul. One of them takes approximately 6 hours depending on your speed and other one takes 9 hours as it will also depend on your speed.
When you depart from Istanbul, you need to follow the road to Bursa, Balikesir, Akhisar, and then Izmir with the road signs. This will take 6 hours. Another way is following Bursa, Kutahya, Usak, and Izmir road and this will take more than the first option. While you are passing through Bursa, you need to stop at a restaurant and eat Iskender. You don’t want to miss this taste and you won’t be regret that you try it. When traveling between Bursa and Balıkesir, you should not neglect to stop in Susurluk. Susurluk is famous among travelers for its buttermilk and toast.
