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.
Why book the Best of Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi Port?
- 🏛️ The Library of Celsus & Grand Theatre: Walk through one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the world, marveling at the two-story facade of the iconic library and the massive 25,000-seat theatre where St. Paul once preached.
- 🙏 House of the Virgin Mary: Visit this peaceful pilgrimage site nestled on Nightingale Mountain, believed by many to be the final residence of Mary, and explore the sacred spring and wishing wall.
- 🏺 Temple of Artemis: Stand on the site of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World; though only ruins remain, the historical significance of this once-colossal temple to the goddess Diana is a must-see for history buffs.
- ⚓ Hassle-Free Shore Excursion: Specifically designed for cruise passengers, this tour offers flexible pick-up directly from the Kusadasi Port with a “back-to-ship” guarantee, ensuring you make the most of your limited time ashore.
- 🎓 Private Professional Guidance: Enjoy a personalized experience with a certified local guide who brings the ruins to life with stories of ancient Roman daily life, gladiatorial combat, and the city’s role in early Christianity.
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 (although you will find the much-photographed Nike relief here), and the northern end was where the ordinary people tended to live. The major highlights are towards the northern 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 Turkey travel
Other Turkey travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- The best time to visit the House of the Virgin Mary near Ephesus.
- Türkiye vs Turkey: When to start using a country’s new name?
- Getting the fear while quad biking in Cappadocia.
- Going deep underground at Derinkuyu Underground City in Cappadocia.
