Explore ancient Ephesus

It's around a two-hour journey to Ephesus, which takes you past Izmir and then on through cotton, melon and vegetable fields.

Ephesus is a huge site with a long history, which your guide will relate to you as you walk. Dating back as far as 6,000 BC, the city first came into prominence when it was inhabited by Hittites. It then survived through Greek settlement from the 10th century BC through to 650 BC, the Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic periods before being invaded by the Romans in 88 BC.

It became a decidedly Roman city and was even made capital of Asia Minor in the 1st century. It was during this period that the city was at its most opulent, with several exquisite buildings including the famed Library of Celsus and Temple of Artemis.

Upon entry to the site, you'll pass by the State Agora and baths, past the odeon to the piazza, home to the remains of the Pollio Fountain, Domitian Temple and monument to Memius.

From here you'll head toward the famous Curetes Street, at the top of which you'll have an excellent view down toward the Library of Celsus.

Passing through the Hercules Gates you'll walk down the street, past the Trajan Fountain and the latrines. Inside this area is a terrace that has perhaps the best viewpoint over the Library. Your guide will take you down past Hadrian's Temple into the Library itself, then out along Marble Street past the Governor's House and the Agora toward the Great Theatre.

You'll exit along Harbour Street, and then make the two-hour journey back to Alaçati.