Hotels near Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary

Ephesus is Turkey's most visited archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage listing since 2015. The city was founded as a Greek colony in the 10th century BCE and grew under Roman rule into a metropolis of roughly 250,000 people, second only to Rome itself. Walking the marble Curetes Street brings you past the Temple of Hadrian, the Terrace Houses with their vivid frescoes and mosaics, and the two-storey facade of the Library of Celsus (built 114-117 CE), one of the most photographed ruins on earth. Ten minutes uphill by taxi sits the House of the Virgin Mary (Meryemana), a small stone chapel believed by many Catholics and Muslims to be where Mary spent her final years.

Opening hours: April to October 08:00 to 19:00, November to March 08:30 to 17:00. 2026 adult entry to Ephesus is 1,000 TRY; Terrace Houses add 400 TRY; the House of the Virgin Mary is 400 TRY separately (not covered by Museum Pass).

Pro Tip: Enter through the Upper Gate and walk downhill to the Lower Gate - it saves your legs and finishes at the Library of Celsus, where the light is best for photos in the late afternoon.