Things to do in Ephesus

Ephesus is the headline, but the area around Selçuk and Kuşadası has enough Roman, Christian and coastal interest to justify more than a flying visit.

1. 1

   Walk ancient Ephesus

   Follow the marble streets past the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre and the mosaic-floored Terrace Houses. Go early or late to dodge the heat and the cruise crowds.

2. 2

   Visit the House of the Virgin Mary

   On Bülbül mountain above Ephesus, this modest chapel is a pilgrimage site believed to be Mary's final home. Quiet, shaded and moving whatever your faith.

3. 3

   Climb to the Basilica of St John

   In Selçuk, the ruins of a great Byzantine basilica mark the traditional burial place of the apostle, with fine views and the lone column of the Temple of Artemis nearby.

4. 4

   Taste the wines of Şirince

   The hill village above Selçuk is known for its fruit wines and old stone houses. A relaxed afternoon of tasting, browsing and long lunches.

5. 5

   Have a beach day near Kuşadası

   Long Beach and the sands at Pamucak give you sea and sun a short drive from the ruins, an easy way to balance culture with downtime.

6. 6

   Make sense of it at the museum

   Selçuk's archaeological museum gathers the finest finds from the site, including the statues of Artemis, and joins up what you have just walked through.

In-depth Ephesus guides

• Visiting Ephesus — A Practical Guide
  How to visit Ephesus — the highlights worth your time, tickets and extras, whether to take a guide, getting there, and dodging the heat and cruise crowds.