Guide to Combining Ephesus Ancient City and Şirince in One Day: Time Management, Route and Transport Tips

Can You Do Both in One Day?

Absolutely. In fact, this is the most popular itinerary for travelers in the Selçuk area. The two destinations are only about 10-12 km apart, but they offer completely different vibes: monumental ancient history in the morning, and relaxing village atmosphere in the afternoon.

The Golden Rule: Order Matters

We strongly recommend doing Ephesus FIRST, Şirince SECOND. Here is why:

1. Heat and Shade: Ephesus is an open-air archaeological site with very little shade. Marble stones reflect the heat. It gets incredibly hot by midday in summer. You want to be there as early as possible (opens at 08:00).
2. Crowds: Cruise ship groups flood Ephesus starting around 10:00 - 11:00. Arriving at 08:30 gives you a head start.
3. Relaxation: After walking for 2-3 hours on ancient stones, you will be tired. Şirince is perfect for sitting down, eating a long lunch, drinking wine, and wandering slowly. It is the reward after the 'work' of touring Ephesus.

The Perfect Itinerary

08:30 – 11:30: Ephesus Ancient City

• Start at the Upper Gate (Magnesia Gate). This allows you to walk downhill towards the Library of Celsus.
• Don't miss the Terrace Houses (requires extra ticket, but worth every penny). It is under a roof, so it's cooler.
• Exit through the Lower Gate.

11:30 – 12:00: Transport to Şirince

• If you have a car, drive towards Selçuk and follow signs for Şirince (about 15 mins).
• If using public transport: Take a minibus (dolmuş) or taxi from the Ephesus Lower Gate to Selçuk Bus Terminal (Otogar). From the Opogar, change to the Şirince Dolmuş. They run every 20 minutes in summer.

12:00 – 14:00: Lunch and Wine in Şirince

Arrive in Şirince. The temperature will be 2-3 degrees cooler than Ephesus due to the altitude.

Head straight to a restaurant. Order "Gözleme" (stuffed flatbread) or a full Aegean breakfast.

Sample the local fruit wines.

14:00 – 16:30: Explore the Village

Walk up to St. John's Church for the view.

Wander the bazaar for olive oil soaps, handmade lace, and jewellery.

Treat yourself to "Kumda Kahve" (Turkish coffee cooked on hot sand).

17:00: Return

Catch the minibus back to Selçuk or drive back to your hotel.

Transport Tips

• Taxi Cost: A taxi from Ephesus directly to Şirince is the fastest option. It saves you the transfer at Selçuk Otogar.
• Minibus: Cheap and reliable, but requires the transfer in Selçuk. The last minibus down from Şirince is usually around 20:00 or 21:00 in summer, but check with the driver!