Selçuk - Discovering Turkey

Travelling to Selçuk

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Selçuk, a pretty good destination in Turkey (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Selçuk and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Selçuk, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Turkey, here's everything to know about Selçuk for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Selçuk

Selçuk is a charming town located in the Aegean region of Turkey, near the popular tourist destination of Ephesus. It is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning natural beauty. The town is home to several ancient landmarks, including the ancient city of Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis, and the House of the Virgin Mary. Selçuk is also surrounded by idyllic natural landscapes, such as hills, valleys, and forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, camping, and horseback riding, or simply relax and take in the beautiful scenery. The town is also famous for its delicious food, friendly locals, and traditional marketplaces where visitors can find unique handmade crafts and souvenirs.

What to visit in Selçuk

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Selçuk, Turkey, along with some information about each of them: 1. Ephesus: One of the most well-known ancient cities in the world, which was considered as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It is a magnificent outdoor museum that you can explore at your own pace. Ephesus features breathtaking history, architecture, and culture, and it's a must-visit attraction for those who come to Selçuk.
2. The Temple of Artemis: This is one of the most ancient temples in the world, constructed to honor the Greek goddess of the hunt, Artemis. Although only a few pillars remain, it is still a well-preserved site and an impressive sight.
3. The House of Virgin Mary: It is an important religious site for Catholics, where it is believed that the Virgin Mary lived her last years. The house has been transformed into a shrine and attracts many visitors and pilgrims throughout the year.
4. İsa Bey Mosque: Built in 1375 by the Aydinids, İsa Bey Mosque represents a beautiful example of Seljuk architecture, characterized by its striking asymmetry, large domes, and arches. The view of the mosque illuminated at night is gorgeous and captivating.
5. Saint John's Basilica: A must-visit attraction for those looking to explore Turkey's Christian heritage. The basilica is dedicated to Saint John the Apostle, who is believed to have written one of the Gospels of the New Testament. 6. The Selçuk Citadel: Located on a high hill overlooking the town of Selçuk, the citadel provides a magnificent view of the city and its surroundings, as well as offering visitors the opportunity to see and explore the ancient castle walls.
7. Şirince Village: Located about seven kilometers from Selçuk, Şirince village is a charming, picturesque mountain village which has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, known for its beautiful handcrafts and delicious wines.
8. The Archaeological Museum of Selçuk: The museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts, sculptures, and mosaics from the ancient city of Ephesus and other surrounding areas, giving visitors an opportunity to see how people in this region lived thousands of years ago.
These are just a few examples of the many attractions to be found in Selçuk, Turkey.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Turkey, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Selçuk.

When to go on holiday to Selçuk

The best time to visit Selçuk, Turkey is during the spring months of April to May and during the fall months of September to November. During these months, the temperature is mild, and the crowds are thinner. However, if you prefer warmer weather, the summer months of June to August offer long sunny days, which are perfect for outdoor activities. But keep in mind that this is the peak tourist season and Selçuk can get quite crowded. The winter months of December to March can get chilly and wet, but if you're looking for a budget-friendly trip, this is the time to go as prices for accommodations and flights tend to be lower.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Selçuk

Selçuk is a popular tourist destination in Turkey, located in the western province of İzmir. Here are some ways to get there: 1. By plane: The nearest airport to Selçuk is İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), which is about 60 km away. From the airport, you can take a bus or a taxi to Selçuk.
2. By train: Selçuk is also accessible by train from İzmir. The journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
3. By bus: There are regular buses to Selçuk from İzmir and other major cities in Turkey. The bus station in Selçuk is located in the town center.
4. By car: Selçuk is connected to İzmir and other nearby towns by well-maintained roads. You can rent a car and drive there, or hire a taxi.
I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any further questions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Selçuk, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Selçuk

Here are some typical foods of Selçuk, Turkey: 1. Köfte: This is a traditional Turkish meatball dish made with minced lamb or beef. It is spiced with herbs and served with rice or salad.
2. Mantı: This is a popular Turkish dumpling dish that is similar to Italian ravioli. It is typically filled with minced meat, onions, and spices and is topped with yogurt and tomato sauce.
3. Pide: Pide is a Turkish-style pizza that is typically topped with cheese, meat, and vegetables. It is baked in a stone oven and served hot.
4. Adana kebab: This is a famous Turkish kebab made with minced lamb or beef that is mixed with spices and grilled on a skewer. It is usually served with rice, salad, and bread.
5. Dolma: This dish consists of stuffed vegetables such as peppers, zucchinis, and tomatoes that are filled with rice, spices, and sometimes meat. It is typically served cold with yogurt.
6. Baklava: Baklava is a sweet pastry made from layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and honey syrup.
7. Tavuk göğsü: This is a Turkish dessert made from shredded chicken breast, milk, and sugar that is flavored with vanilla and cinnamon. It has a creamy texture and is considered a unique delicacy. 8. Şerbet: Şerbet is a refreshing Turkish drink made from fruits or flowers such as rose or lemon. It is mixed with sugar and water and served cold.
You can find general info about typical foods in Turkey here.

Is Selçuk an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other cities in Turkey, Selçuk is relatively affordable for tourists, especially when it comes to food and accommodation. However, prices can vary depending on the season, with summer being the peak tourist season. Additionally, prices may be higher near popular tourist attractions such as the Ephesus ruins. Overall, Selçuk can be considered a reasonably priced destination for tourists in Turkey.

Where to find accomodation in Selçuk

The best areas to find accommodation in Selçuk, Turkey are the town center and the area around the Ephesus archaeological site. The town center is convenient for exploring the local markets, restaurants, and historical attractions, while the area around the Ephesus site is ideal if you want to be within walking distance of the ancient ruins. Both areas offer a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Additionally, some visitors choose to stay in nearby areas such as Kusadasi or Izmir and take day trips to Selçuk.
You can check hotel prices at Selçuk here:
Booking.com

Is Selçuk a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Selçuk in Turkey is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The crime rate is low and the locals are friendly and hospitable towards visitors. However, as with any tourist destination, it is always important to take common precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding poorly lit and isolated areas at night, and keeping your belongings secure. It is also recommended to check the current travel advisories for Turkey before planning your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Turkey here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Selçuk.

What type of travelers will enjoy Selçuk the most?

Selçuk, Turkey is a versatile destination that offers something for everyone. Here are some types of travelers that will enjoy Selçuk the most: 1. History buffs - Selçuk is home to many important historical sites, including the ancient city of Ephesus and the Temple of Artemis, that offer insight into the region's rich cultural heritage.
2. Couples - With its picturesque streets, intimate restaurants and stunning views of the countryside, Selçuk is the perfect place for a romantic getaway.
3. Families - Selçuk has plenty of family-friendly attractions, such as the Aquapark Adaland and the Pamucak Beach, that cater to travelers with children.
4. Outdoor enthusiasts - Hiking, cycling, and paragliding are popular activities in the surrounding hills and mountains, providing ample opportunities to explore the outdoors and take in the breathtaking scenery.
5. Culture seekers - Selçuk offers a unique blend of Ottoman and Greek cultures, making it an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the local customs and traditions.

How to get around Selçuk

In Selçuk, Turkey, you can use various modes of transportation to move around. These include: 1. Walking: Selçuk is a small town, and most of its tourist attractions are located within walking distance.
2. Bicycle rental: You can rent a bicycle to explore the town and nearby areas. Bicycle rental shops are available throughout Selçuk.
3. Dolmuş: The minibusses locally known as 'dolmuş' is a popular mode of transportation among locals and tourists. They run on set routes with fixed fares and operate regularly throughout the day.
4. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Selçuk, and they are useful if you want to visit places located outside of town.
5. Car rental: It's possible to rent a car and drive yourself around Selçuk and its surrounding areas. Several rental companies have offices in the town.

What to see around Selçuk

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Selçuk: 1. Pamukkale: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its dazzling white travertine terraces, natural hot springs and ancient Hierapolis city ruins.
2. Ephesus Archaeological Site: Ephesus is one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world, with famous landmarks like the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Artemis and the Great Theatre.
3. Şirince Village: This charming village, located about 8 km northeast of Selçuk, is known for its well-preserved Greek and Ottoman architecture, vineyards and traditional handicrafts.
4. Kuşadası: This seaside town is a popular destination for cruise ships, with its picturesque marina, beaches, bazaars and restaurants.
5. Priene, Miletus, Didyma: These three ancient cities are located close to each other and are often referred to as the "Sacred Triangle" of ancient Greek culture in Asia Minor.
6. Çamlik Steam Locomotive Museum: This museum houses a large collection of steam locomotives and railcars from the Ottoman Empire and the Turkish Republic era.
7. İzmir: The third largest city in Turkey, İzmir is known for its historic district of Kemeraltı Bazaar, the seaside promenade of Kordon and the ancient Greek city ruins of Smyrna.
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