The first attraction in the Aegean Sea: the biblical city of Ephesus

1. Introduction to Ephesus Ephesus is a historic city founded by the ancient Greeks, located on the Aegean coast of western Türkiye. It was once the capital of the province of Asia in the Roman period and has preserved a large number of magnificent relics, such as the Library of Celsus, the Theater, the Terrace House, the Temple of Hadrian, etc. Today, Ephesus has been listed as a World Cultural Heritage and is an important window for understanding ancient Roman and Greek civilizations. 2. Transportation and Tickets •Transportation: •Airplane Arrival: The nearest international airport is Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), about 100 kilometers from Ephesus. • Ground transportation: You can get there by bus, minibus (Dolmuş) or rental car from Izmir, Kusadasi or Selcuk. Some guides suggest taking a day trip from Kusadasi, which is convenient and allows you to visit surrounding attractions. •Ticket information: •The ticket price for the ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus is about 200 liras (about 11 US dollars), and the recommended visiting time is 2.5 to 3.5 hours. Some passes may include access to other nearby attractions, such as Terrace Houses.  3. Must-see attractions It is recommended to visit the main attractions in Ephesus in order. Here are some key recommendations: • Library of Celsus: This building once housed 12,000 volumes of books and is one of the most iconic relics in Ephesus. Its exquisite stone carvings and magnificent architecture are stunning. •The Great Theatre: The ancient Roman theatre, which can accommodate 25,000 people, not only showcases ancient entertainment methods, but is also an important venue for city gatherings. •Terrace House: A representative of the residences of the rich in ancient times, it has exquisite murals and mosaic floors, and is a good place to understand the lifestyle of the ancients. •Temple of Hadrian: The architectural details are exquisite and well preserved, making it a must-see monument among the ruins. •Other highlights: Public toilets, mosaic sidewalks, porches, Augustus Gate, etc. are also details worth noting, allowing you to experience the wisdom of life of the ancient Romans. 4. Recommended tour route One-day tour itinerary (partial reference guide): 1. Entry options: It is recommended to enter from the south gate (usually the route is easier) and visit the main ruins according to the instructions. 2. Visit the main attractions: • First visit the Library of Celsus, then walk along the marble streets, gradually visit the Great Theater, Terrace House and Hadrian Temple. 3. Transportation within the scenic area: • If you are not physically fit, you can choose the carriage or minibus service within the scenic area (the cost is about 400 liras), but it is recommended to inquire about the price in advance. 4. Extended tour: • After visiting the ancient city, you can drive to the nearby town of Şirince to taste the famous local fruit wine and snacks, and then go to the Izmir seaside for dinner.  5. Tips •Best time to visit: The weather is pleasant in spring and autumn (April to June, September to November), and there are relatively few people; in summer, it is hot, so it is recommended to visit in the morning or evening. •Dressing recommendations: The ancient city is large, so it is recommended to wear comfortable sports shoes, sun-protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses, and bring enough water and snacks. •Guide and explanation: You may consider renting a Chinese interpreter or joining a one-day tour with a Chinese guide to better understand the historical stories behind the monuments. •Ticket discounts: If you hold a museum card or combination ticket, you may enjoy certain discounts. Please check the relevant information in advance.  6. Accommodation and surrounding tours •Accommodation recommendations: Selçuk has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget hostels to boutique hotels. You can choose suitable accommodation according to your budget and prepare for the next day's journey. •Surrounding attractions: In addition to the ancient city ruins, you can also arrange: •Virgin Mary's Cottage: It is said to be the place where the Virgin Mary died. •Ephesus Museum: It houses a large collection of archaeological artifacts, supplementing the deficiencies in the history of the ancient city. •Kusadasi Beach: Perfect for relaxing and tasting local seafood. The ancient city of Ephesus is not only an archaeological site, but also a history classroom that vividly reproduces the glory of ancient civilization. Whether you are a traveler interested in history or a tourist who wants to experience cultural heritage, this place will provide an unforgettable experience.