Ephesus Travel Forum

Hello,

I am traveling to Turkey this summer to visit my cousin who is teaching English at a university there. I am meeting her in Istanbul to see the sites there but am also interested in going to Ephesus. Is it possible to take a day trip to Ephesus from Isanbul? What is the best way to get from Istanbul to Ephesus? Any suggestions for off the beaten path things to do in Istanbul. Thanks!

The only possible way to do it as a daytrip with a return to Istanbul on the same day is to fly to Izmir, rent a car, drive to Ephesus, then drive back to Izmir for the flight back to Istanbul.

Although it is possible, I don't think I'd recommend doing that! It would be a long and tiring day especially considering the summer heat and crowds at Ephesus. But the drive from Izmir is not too bad - and Turkish Airways' budget airlines, Sun Express does offer some good fares if you book early enough. Have a great time in Turkey!

If by land transport, that wold not be possible as it is almost 700kms away from Istanbul and about 10 hours trip.

By plane would be the only option, then again, you have to fly to Izmir which means, you ahve to take a 1.5 hours bus ride to Selcuk/Ephesus, and again, to tour the highlights - House of Virgin Mary on top of the mountain, the Ephesus archeo.site and cave of 7 sleepers & Basilica of St. John - you need almost the whole day... took us about 5 hours to tour those places and it was winter - not much crowd.