+90 (531) 344 74 24 - Apasas Travel Licence: 6377
Where Is Ephesus Located? Ancient City Location & Modern Map Guide

 

Where Is Ephesus Located? Ancient City Location & Modern Map Guide

If you are wondering where is Ephesus located, you are not alone. Ephesus is one of the most famous ancient cities in the world, yet its exact location can be confusing for first-time visitors. Many travelers ask questions such as where is Ephesus today, where is Ephesus on a map, or is Ephesus in Turkey.

This guide clearly explains the modern location of Ephesus, its place on the map of Turkey, its relationship with nearby cities like İzmir and Selçuk, and how to reach the ancient site easily.

Where Is Ancient Ephesus Located?

Ancient Ephesus was originally a major port city of the ancient world. Located on the western coast of Asia Minor, it played a key role in trade, culture, and religion during Greek and Roman times.

  • Ephesus was situated near the Aegean Sea
  • It served as an important harbor city
  • Over centuries, silting caused the coastline to move away

As a result, although Ephesus was once a coastal city, it is no longer located directly by the sea today.

What Is Modern Day Ephesus Called?

One of the most common questions is where is Ephesus located today.

Today, the ruins of Ephesus are located near the modern town of Selçuk, which is part of İzmir Province in western Turkey. The ancient city itself is an archaeological site rather than a living town.

So when people ask what country is Ephesus in or is Ephesus in Turkey, the answer is clear: Ephesus is located in Turkey.

Ephesus on the Map

If you search for where is Ephesus on a map, you will find it in western Turkey, close to the Aegean coast.

  • Country: Turkey
  • Region: Aegean Region
  • Province: İzmir
  • Nearest town: Selçuk

Ephesus is approximately 3 km from Selçuk town center, about 80 km south of İzmir city, and roughly 20 km from the coastal resort town of Kuşadası.

How to Get to Ephesus

Reaching Ephesus is relatively easy due to its central location in the Aegean region.

  • Guided tours from İzmir or Kuşadası
  • Private transfers from nearby cities
  • Public transport to Selçuk followed by a short taxi ride

For detailed planning and background information, you can visit our Ephesus destination guide .

Nearest Airports and Cities

Nearest Airport

İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) is the closest airport to Ephesus, located approximately 60 km away. It offers the most convenient access for international and domestic travelers.

Nearby Cities and Towns

  • Selçuk: The closest town to Ephesus
  • İzmir: Major city with airport and transport links
  • Kuşadası: Popular cruise port and resort town

Where Was Ephesus Compared to Today?

In ancient times, Ephesus was a thriving harbor city with direct access to the sea. Over time, natural sediment buildup pushed the coastline farther away, leaving Ephesus inland.

This geographical change explains why modern visitors are often surprised by Ephesus’s current location despite its historical importance as a port city.

Final Overview – Where Is Ephesus Located?

  • Ephesus is located in Turkey
  • It lies near Selçuk in İzmir Province
  • It was once a coastal city but is now inland
  • It is easily accessible from İzmir and Kuşadası

Understanding where Ephesus is located helps visitors plan their trip more confidently and appreciate how geography shaped its ancient history.

Apasas Travel Logo

Apasas Travel
Usually responds the same day

Apasas Travel
Welcome to the Apasas Travel

How may i help you?
Today
+905313447424
X
Chat with a consultant
Get help planning your trip