Curetes Street is one of the most captivating routes within the ancient city of Ephesus, lined with impressive ruins, temples, and marble statues that tell stories of a bygone era. This historic avenue stretches between the Celsus Library and the Hercules Gate, drawing visitors eager to walk in the footsteps of ancient Greeks and Romans. If you’re planning to visit, knowing how to get to Curetes Street will make your trip smoother and ensure you don’t miss any of the key highlights along the way. This guide will provide clear directions from nearby cities.
By Air
The nearest airport to Ephesus is Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), located around 60 kilometers away. Once at the airport, you can take a direct shuttle, taxi, or rent a car to reach Ephesus in approximately one hour. Taxis and private shuttles are available at the airport for a more direct route to Selçuk, the town close to Ephesus.
By Train
If you’re already in Turkey, taking a train is another scenic and economical option. Trains run regularly from major cities like Izmir to Selçuk, which is just 3 kilometers from the Ephesus site. From Selçuk station, a quick taxi ride or a short walk will lead you to the site entrance, making it a convenient choice for travelers already in the Izmir area.
By Car
Driving to Ephesus is straightforward if you’re coming from Izmir or nearby areas. Use the O-31 highway from Izmir, and follow the signs to Selçuk. The journey typically takes an hour. Parking is available near the entrance gates, so this is ideal if you’re looking for flexibility in your visit.
By Bus
Multiple bus services operate routes to Selçuk from various Turkish cities. Once you arrive in Selçuk, take a short taxi ride or a local dolmuş (minibus) directly to the Ephesus entrance.
Guided Tours
Many visitors opt for guided tours, which often include round-trip transportation from nearby cities like Kusadasi or Izmir, and even from the cruise port in Kusadasi. These tours are a great way to ensure you see all the major sights with the added context from a guide.
On Arrival at Ephesus
Curetes Street, one of Ephesus’s most iconic avenues, is easily accessible from both the Upper Gate and Lower Gate of the archaeological site. Visitors typically start at the Upper Gate to walk downhill along Curetes Street, making it easier to enjoy the many ancient landmarks along the way. Curetes Street runs through key parts of the city, leading past attractions like the Temple of Hadrian and the Terrace Houses, offering an immersive experience into ancient Ephesian life. Elevate your experience of Curetes Street with our top-rated tour offering.
For visiting hours and tips, Ephesus generally opens from 8:00 AM to around 5:00 PM in winter and 7:00 PM in summer. Wear comfortable shoes, as the marble streets can be uneven, and bring sun protection if you’re visiting during the warmer months.