The north gate at Ephesus is busier and has better facilities. The south gate is quieter and allows for a downhill walk through the ancient city.
How many entrance gates does Ephesus have?
The extensive ruins of Ephesus are one of Turkey’s tourist highlights. Thousands of people visit the site every day, but knowing where to enter can have a major impact on your experience.
The ancient Greek, Roman and Byzantine city had several entrance gates in the past, but these days there are just two. The main entrance to Ephesus is the north gate – sometimes called the lower gate. But there is also the upper gate at the southern end of the site.
Ephesus North Gate vs South Gate
Of the two Ephesus entry gates, the north gate is considered the main entrance. This is where many of the large tour buses park.
However, the south gate is on higher ground. Enter via the south gate, and it’s a downhill walk through the Ephesus site. Obviously, this makes for an easier walk, but it also makes for a more gradual introduction.
The southern end of the city is where the state and political buildings congregate, and the northern end was where the ordinary people tended to live. The major highlights are towards the southern end – including the Roman terrace houses, the Library of Celsus and the enormous Theatre.
Which Ephesus gate to choose
If you want to just quickly see the main attractions in Ephesus, then the north gate is the best bet. The north gate has more facilities outside, too – notably shops and restaurants.
If you want to spend more time at Ephesus, see more and walk through the city, then the south gate is the better option.
If travelling independently, the best plan for tackling Ephesus is to get a taxi to the south gate and enter there. You can then walk downhill through the city, not battling against the tide of the crowds so much, and finish with the big-hitter attractions.
It’s also much easier to pick up a taxi at the northern end when you’re ready to leave.
Best Ephesus entry gate on a tour
Obviously, if you’re on a tour, you don’t have a lot of choice in which Ephesus entry gate you use. You can, however, look through the options – Viator has dozens – and pick one that enters via the south gate.
As a general rule, the smaller group tours are more likely to enter via the south gate.
More Ephesus travel advice
Other Ephesus travel pieces on Planet Whitley include a look at the best time to visit the House of the Virgin Mary.
