Temple

Temple of Artemis at Ephesus

Ephesus · TurkeyBest Season: :Spring and autumn (April-June, September-October) offer mild weather ideal for outdoor visits. Summer can be hot, winter occasionally rainy.Suggested Duration: :Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour (small site for photos and reading information boards)

Introduction

The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, located near the ancient city of Ephesus in Turkey, was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Built around 550 BC by the Lydian king Croesus, it was dedicated to Artemis, the Greek goddess of hunting. The temple was immense, measuring 115 meters long and 55 meters wide, with 127 columns 18 meters high, adorned with exquisite reliefs. Although only a single pillar and scattered ruins remain today, the site still conveys its former glory. It represents the pinnacle of ancient Greek architecture and art, carrying profound religious and historical significance. A visit here allows you to travel back in time and imagine the bustling pilgrimages of antiquity, making it an essential stop for exploring ancient civilizations.

Opening Hours

Friday8:30-19:00

Monday8:30-19:00

Sunday8:30-19:00

Tuesday8:30-19:00

Saturday8:30-19:00

Thursday8:30-19:00

Wednesday8:30-19:00

Summer (April-October) hours extended to 19:00, winter (November-March) to 17:00. Check official announcements.

Ticket Information

Free AdmissionFree for all visitors

AdultFree (the ruins are an open area, no separate ticket required)

ChildFree

Visiting Ephesus ancient city requires a separate ticket (approx. 200 Turkish Lira); the Temple of Artemis site itself has no entrance fee.

Transportation

Bus

Frequent minibuses (dolmuş) from Selçuk town center to Ephesus entrance; a 10-minute walk to the Temple of Artemis site.

Driving/Parking

Drive with GPS to 'Temple of Artemis'. Limited parking nearby; recommend parking at Ephesus ancient city lot and walking.

Note

The site is open-air; wear comfortable walking shoes.

Subway

No subway coverage. The nearest major city is Izmir; take a train or bus from Izmir to Selçuk.

Travel Tips

1Visit early morning or late afternoon for good photo lighting and fewer crowds.

2Souvenir stalls nearby sell postcards and replica artifacts.

3Combine with Ephesus ancient city and House of the Virgin Mary for a half-day tour.

FAQ

QWhat remains of the Temple of Artemis?

Only one reconstructed pillar stands on-site, along with scattered stone blocks and foundation remnants. Most columns and sculptures were taken to the British Museum and elsewhere.

QIs there an entrance fee?

The site itself is free with no ticket gate. However, visiting the nearby Ephesus ancient city requires a ticket (approx. 200 Turkish Lira).

QHow do I get there from Izmir?

Take a train from Izmir's main station to Selçuk station (about 1 hour), then walk or take a minibus to the site. You can also drive or join a day tour.

Quick Info

Best Season

Spring and autumn (April-June, September-October) offer mild weather ideal for outdoor visits. Summer can be hot, winter occasionally rainy.

Duration

Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour (small site for photos and reading information boards)