Ephesus

Ephesus was one of the greatest cities of the ancient Mediterranean, a Greek and then Roman metropolis traditionally said to have held a quarter of a million people, though modern estimates run lower near the Aegean coast, and today one of the best-preserved classical cities anywhere. Its marble streets lead past the magnificent facade of the Library of Celsus, the vast theatre that held twenty-five thousand, temples, baths and terraced houses, a UNESCO window into the Roman world.

What you actually see

• The Library of Celsus - the magnificent restored two-storey facade.
• The Great Theatre - the vast amphitheatre carved into the hillside.
• The marble streets - the colonnaded avenues of the ancient city.
• The Terrace Houses - the frescoed and mosaic homes of the wealthy.

When to go

Spring and autumn for mild weather; summer is fiercely hot on the shadeless marble, so go at opening or late afternoon and bring water and a hat. It is busy with cruise groups, so early or late is calmer.

Honest expectations

It is exposed and shadeless, punishing in summer heat, so go early or late with water and a hat. It is very popular with cruise and tour groups, busiest midday. It is large, so allow half a day, and the frescoed Terrace Houses are a worthwhile extra ticket.

Nearby

Selcuk, the House of the Virgin Mary and the beaches of the Aegean coast are close; Pamukkale is within reach.