Ephesus City: city guide to Ephesus and Selçuk

Nature and Agrotourism

Dutlu Yol (Mulberry Path)

If you are looking for a peaceful escape in the heart of nature, Dutlu Yol is waiting for you! This enchanting route offers a unique experience for hikers and history enthusiasts alike. Weaving together natural beauty and historic character, Dutlu Yol has a new story to discover around every corner.

Museums and Art

Ephesus Museum, Selçuk

The Ephesus Museum takes you on a journey into the fascinating world of ancient Ephesus. Here you can get to know the history and cultural heritage of Ephesus more closely. The museum is full of important artefacts recovered from excavations in the ancient city, offering a deep understanding of the history of Ephesus.

Faith

İsa Bey Mosque

İsa Bey Mosque is a historic building in the Selçuk district of Türkiye. Built in 1374–1375 by order of İsa Bey of the Aydınid (Aydınoğulları) Beylik, the mosque was designed by the architect Ali, son of Mushimish al-Dimashki, and displays fine architectural elegance and stonework. Located in the centre of Selçuk, it offers visitors a historic atmosphere, aesthetic architectural details and spiritual peace. With its fine carvings inside and its spacious courtyard, İsa Bey Mosque is an important destination for history and photography enthusiasts alike. The nearby Ancient City of Ephesus and local food stops make your visit unforgettable.

Sea and Beaches

Kazan Lake

Zeytinköy is a lovely village on the shore of Kazan Lake, offering an escape close to nature. With its lake views and lush green surroundings, this quiet village in Selçuk is a perfect spot for nature lovers. In Zeytinköy you can enjoy pleasant walks around the lake, have a picnic and simply take in the outdoors. With activities such as fishing and birdwatching at Kazan Lake, you can leave the bustle of the city behind and find peace. With its natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere, Zeytinköy offers an unforgettable getaway.

Sea and Beaches

Pamucak Beach

Pamucak is a popular beach in the Selçuk district of İzmir province, Türkiye. Located in the Aegean Region, it is known for its clean sand, clear sea and relaxing atmosphere. Favoured by holidaymakers and locals alike, Pamucak Beach is an ideal place for families and young people to unwind. The beach stretches over a wide area and the water is generally shallow, making it well suited to swimming and water sports. There are also various cafés and restaurants around the beach, so visitors can enjoy a pleasant day out. With its campsites and picnic areas, Pamucak is also an attractive option for anyone seeking a holiday close to nature.

History and Culture

Virgin Mary (Meryemana) Nature Park

Meryemana Nature Park in Selçuk, İzmir, is home to the House of the Virgin Mary and full of historic and natural beauty. Ideal for nature walks.

Ayasuluk Fortress (Selçuk Castle)

Crowning the hilltop in Selçuk, Ayasuluk Fortress stands on the earliest settlement of Ephesus, with walls from the Byzantine, Aydınid and Ottoman eras.

Basilica of St. John and the Gate of Persecution

The Basilica of St. John in Selçuk, built by Emperor Justinian and his wife Theodora, is notable for its cross-shaped plan and six great domes.

Byzantine Aqueduct

Beginning east of the Basilica of St. John, Selçuk's Byzantine aqueduct survives in good condition in the town, especially around the train station.

Çamlık Open-Air Steam Locomotive Museum

The Çamlık Open-Air Steam Locomotive Museum, in Çamlık village just 7 km from Ephesus Selçuk, is a treasure trove of railway history.

Cave of the Seven Sleepers

The story of the Seven Sleepers is known as one of the most intriguing and miraculous events in the history of Christianity.

Ephesus Museum

Opened in 1964, the Ephesus Museum in Selçuk is one of Türkiye's most visited museums, home to the famous Great Artemis and Beautiful Artemis statues.