Top 10 must-see sites at Ephesus: Library of Celsus, Great Theatre, Terrace Houses, Curetes Street, and more. Plan your visit with our guide.
Ephesus is packed with ancient wonders. To make the most of your visit, focus on these top 10 must-see sites—and book your Ephesus tickets online to skip the queues.
1. Library of Celsus
Ephesus' most iconic landmark. The restored Roman façade once held 12,000 scrolls. Built in AD 117–120, it stands at the heart of Curetes Street. Arrive early for the best photos—morning light illuminates it beautifully.
2. Great Theatre
The 25,000-seat amphitheatre hosted gladiator contests and religious ceremonies. One of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world. Test the acoustics from the orchestra. The theatre was also the scene of the riot in Acts 19.
3. Curetes Street
The main street connecting the upper and lower city. Lined with temples, fountains, and shops. Walk downhill for the best experience. Named after the priests of Artemis.
4. Terrace Houses
Roman villas with mosaics, frescoes, and underfloor heating. Requires an add-on ticket. Highly recommended—among the best-preserved domestic architecture in the Mediterranean.
5. Temple of Hadrian
Elegant temple with reliefs and inscriptions. Located on Curetes Street. Honours the emperor who visited Ephesus.
6. Odeon
Small covered theatre near the upper gate. Used for council meetings and concerts. Seated about 1,500. A good warm-up at the start of your visit.
7. Fountain of Trajan
Monumental fountain dedicated to Emperor Trajan. A highlight on Curetes Street. The structure once featured statues of the emperor and his family.
8. Commercial Agora
Ancient marketplace. Located near the Library of Celsus. Once the hub of Ephesian trade—goods from across the Mediterranean passed through here.
9. Harbour Gymnasium
Large bath and gymnasium complex near the lower gate. Marks the ancient harbour area. Ephesus was a port city—the harbour has since silted up.
10. State Agora
Political and administrative centre. Near the upper gate. Where civic business was conducted in Roman times.
Suggested Route
Enter from the upper gate. Walk: Odeon → State Agora → Curetes Street (Temple of Hadrian, Fountain of Trajan) → Library of Celsus → Commercial Agora → Great Theatre → Terrace Houses (if you have the ticket) → Harbour Gymnasium. Allow 4–5 hours for a thorough visit.
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