As of 2024, the ancient city of Ephesus can be visited until midnight. The streets of the city and key landmarks such as the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Hadrian have been illuminated to create a wonderful ambiance.
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After Dark Video of Ephesus Ancient City
The Benefits of Night Visits
Visiting Ephesus at night isn’t just a way to escape the scorching daytime temperatures and crowds of Ephesus, it’s an entirely different experience. As the sun sets and the heat dissipates, the city, which is open until midnight, welcomes visitors into a fantastic world illuminated by strategically placed lights that highlight its most important structures. This unique setting not only enhances the visual feast but also provides a more relaxed visiting environment.
Reasons to Visit Ephesus After Dark
- In the ancient city of Ephesus, the heat can be more intense as the marble absorbs heat. If you want to avoid the searing heat, visit Ephesus in the evening.
- If you have already visited the ancient city of Ephesus during the day and would like to experience its evening atmosphere, then consider visiting Ephesus at night.
- The evening illumination of the ancient city of Ephesus can provide great photo opportunities.
- Ephesus can be very crowded during the day. If you want to have a quieter and more comfortable tour, you should visit Ephesus in the evening.
- It is a great opportunity that the Ancient City of Ephesus remains open until midnight, for those who have other activities during the day and are only available in the evening.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The ancient city of Ephesus has two entrance gates, the Upper and Lower Gates, which are not close to each other. While both gates are open until 19:00, entry after 19:00 is only possible through the lower gate of Ephesus.
- As the Upper Gate entrance to Ephesus is closed to visitors after dark, your tour begins and ends at the Lower Gate.
- Entrance fees for evening visits to Ephesus are the same as for regular visits.
- For evening visits, the ancient city of Ephesus is accessible and illuminated up to the Temple of Hadrian. This part of the city already includes all the significant landmarks such as the Great Theatre, the Library of Celsus, the Latrines, and the Terrace Houses.
- The Ephesus Terrace Houses are open and illuminated for evening visits, but you will need to buy an extra ticket for evening visits, just as you would for day visits.
Useful Links: Ephesus Opening Hours, Ephesus Admission Fee
Don’t Forget to Visit the Ephesus Experience Museum
The Ephesus Experience Museum is also open until 23:30 and close to the lower gate of Ephesus. We recommend that you first explore the ancient city of Ephesus and on the way back to the lower gate complete your visit with a unique virtual reality visual and audio experience at the Ephesus Experience Museum. There is no additional fee for the Ephesus Experience Museum; admission is included in your Ephesus ticket price. Be sure to keep your ticket safe.
Also See the Blog Post: The Ephesus Experience Museum
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If you would like to explore the ancient city of Ephesus after dark with us, you can reach us at the links below.