Museum

Ephesus Museum

Ephesus · TurkeyBest Season: :Spring (Apr-May) and Autumn (Sep-Oct) with mild weather and fewer crowds.Suggested Duration: :1.5-2 hours

Introduction

The Ephesus Museum, located in the town of Selçuk, Turkey, right next to the world-famous ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus, was founded in 1964. It houses a vast collection of artifacts unearthed from Ephesus and its surroundings, serving as a vital window into the Aegean civilizations of the Greco-Roman period. Highlights include the renowned statue of Artemis, the Eros statue, and exquisite frescoes and mosaics. Why visit? The museum not only showcases the splendor of ancient Ephesus but also vividly recreates the daily life and religious practices of this great metropolis through its rich collection of sculptures, coins, and pottery. It is a must-see for history and culture enthusiasts seeking to delve into the Eastern Mediterranean civilization of the Roman Empire.

Opening Hours

Friday9:00-18:30

Monday9:00-18:30

Sunday9:00-18:30

Tuesday9:00-18:30

Saturday9:00-18:30

Thursday9:00-18:30

Wednesday9:00-18:30

Summer (Apr-Oct) extends to 19:00; Winter (Nov-Mar) closes at 17:00. Mondays are less crowded.

Ticket Information

Free AdmissionTurkish citizens under 18 and over 65 free; Museum Pass Turkey valid

Adult40 Turkish Lira (approx. €1.5)

ChildFree (under 6 years)

Ticket separate from Ephesus ancient city; combi ticket (city+museum) available for 120 TL.

Transportation

Bus

Local minibuses operate between the museum and the ancient city within Selçuk.

Driving/Parking

From Izmir, drive south on the D550 highway (about 45 min). Parking available at the museum.

Note

It is recommended to visit together with the Ephesus ancient city, only a 10-minute walk away.

Subway

No subway. Take a train from Izmir to Selçuk station (approx. 1 hour), then a 15-minute walk.

Travel Tips

1Do not touch the exhibits; photography allowed without flash for most statues.

2Visit the museum in the morning and the ancient city in the afternoon to avoid the heat.

3There is a small café and gift shop inside the museum.

FAQ

QIs the Ephesus Museum the same as the Ephesus ancient city?

No. The museum is an indoor exhibition hall for artifacts from the ancient city; the ancient city is an open-air site about 1 km away.

QWhat is the most famous exhibit in the museum?

Multiple statues of Artemis, especially the 'Great Artemis' symbolizing fertility and hunting.

QDo I need to buy tickets online in advance?

It is recommended to buy a Museum Pass Turkey or combo ticket online to avoid queues; walk-in tickets are also available.

Quick Info

Best Season

Spring (Apr-May) and Autumn (Sep-Oct) with mild weather and fewer crowds.

Duration

1.5-2 hours