Read an ancient city, not one monument
Ephesus lies near Selçuk, inland from the modern Aegean shore. Its streets and public buildings reveal an ancient city rather than a single temple site. An interpreted route can connect the upper civic area, Odeon and Prytaneion with Domitian Square, Curetes Street, the Temple of Hadrian, latrines and the Library of Celsus.
Follow the wider urban fabric
The Terrace Houses introduce domestic life and decorated interiors, with their access scope checked separately. The commercial agora, Marble Street, Great Theatre and harbour-side route explain trade and public gathering. Surviving remains and reconstructed elements should be distinguished when interpreting the site; a façade alone does not tell the whole history.
Selçuk and religious associations
The Temple of Artemis remains, Ephesus Museum and Basilica of Saint John add distinct interests around Selçuk. The House of the Virgin Mary lies on a separate hillside and is a place of religious tradition, not a building inside the main archaeological streets. The Seven Sleepers area is another separate reference; include each only when it serves the planned visit.
Set a practical visiting scope
Plan walking on uneven and exposed surfaces, the chosen entrance and the exit transfer. Izmir, Selçuk and Kuşadası play different roles as transport gateway, nearby town and coastal base. Confirm admissions, accessibility and any faith-related arrangement individually. Outdoor heat and the number of separate sites matter more than a compressed checklist.