Exploring Ancient Ephesus: A Guide to Accessible Travel and Wheelchair-Friendly Routes

Visiting Ephesus is like stepping back in time to one of the most well-preserved ancient cities of the world. However, for travelers with physical disabilities and wheelchair users, navigating this historic site comes with unique challenges. 

In this guide, we provide essential information on the accessibility of Ephesus, practical tips for an easier visit, and details on transportation and tour options.  

Ephesus is one of the most remarkable ancient cities in the world, located in present-day Turkey. Once a major hub of commerce, culture, and religion in the Roman Empire, it flourished as a thriving port city known for its grand temples, impressive theaters, and intricate marble streets.  

Founded in the 10th century BCE by Greek colonists, Ephesus later became one of the most significant cities in Asia Minor under Roman rule. It is home to several well-preserved ruins, including the world-famous Library of Celsus, the majestic Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. 

Beyond its architectural grandeur, Ephesus was also an important center for early Christianity, mentioned multiple times in the Bible and visited by figures such as Saint Paul and Saint John. 

Today, Ephesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting millions of visitors who come to explore its rich history, stunning ruins, and the fascinating stories that echo through its ancient streets.  

Is Ephesus Wheelchair Accessible?  

Ephesus is an expansive archaeological site featuring cobblestone streets, steep inclines, and uneven marble pathways, making full accessibility difficult. However, improvements have been made, including a designated wheelchair-friendly route and accessible entrances. 

With proper planning and assistance, wheelchair users can explore key landmarks such as the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.  

Accessible Entrance Options

When visiting Ephesus as a wheelchair user, choosing the right entrance is crucial:
If the disabled traveler has an official disability card, they can enter the sites free of admission. 

✅ Lower Gate Entrance (Best for Accessibility)

• Located near the Great Theatre
• Provides the easiest access to main attractions
• Wheelchair-friendly paths available (though assistance may still be required)

❌ Upper Gate Entrance (Not Recommended)

• Located near the House of the Virgin Mary
• Steep and rocky pathways make it difficult for wheelchair users to navigate
• Avoid unless using a specialized tour with assistance

Accessibility of Key Attractions  

Library of Celsus

✅ Accessible

The Library of Celsus is one of the most iconic structures of Ephesus, originally built in the 2nd century AD as a monumental tomb for the Roman senator Tiberius Julius Celsus.

The stunning two-story facade with its Corinthian columns is a masterpiece of Roman architecture. Wheelchair users can access the site via a hard gravel pathway, allowing them to admire the grand exterior up close.

Harbor Street  

✅ Accessible

Harbor Street was once the main thoroughfare leading to the city’s port. This wide, straight road was used for grand processions and trade, connecting Ephesus to the outside world. 

Today, it is one of the easiest routes for wheelchair users, featuring a hard gravel path that provides relatively smooth access.  

Great Theatre

⚠️ Partially Accessible

The Great Theatre of Ephesus is one of the largest ancient theaters in the world, with a seating capacity of 25,000. It was used for gladiator fights, plays, and political gatherings.

Wheelchair users can reach the lower levels, but upper seating areas remain inaccessible. As of March 2025, restoration work is underway, limiting access to outside viewing only, which still provides a great opportunity for photography.

Temple of Hadrian

⚠️ Difficult

Dedicated to Emperor Hadrian, this temple is one of the best-preserved structures in Ephesus. It features intricate relief carvings depicting the mythological foundation of the city. 

Due to uneven terrain, wheelchair users may only be able to view the temple from a distance.

Terrace Houses

❌ Not Accessible

The Terrace Houses, also known as the “Houses of the Rich,” give insight into the luxurious lifestyles of Ephesus’ elite. These houses feature beautifully preserved mosaics and frescoes.

However, they are built on steep terraces with many steps, making them inaccessible to wheelchair users.

Marble Road

⚠️ Partially Accessible

Marble Road, connecting major landmarks in Ephesus, was used for processions and daily activities. The terrain is rough, and assistance is recommended for wheelchair users.

House of the Virgin Mary

❌ Not Accessible

Believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary, this sacred site attracts many pilgrims. However, a six-inch step at the entrance and the absence of ramps make it inaccessible for wheelchair users.

Basilica of St. John

✅ Partially Accessible

Built in the 6th century AD by Emperor Justinian, the Basilica of St. John is believed to house the tomb of St. John the Apostle. Some ramps are available, but the terrain remains uneven.