Selcuk town is fairly compact and flat, making the center reasonably easy to explore on foot. However, historic sites like Ephesus, the Basilica of St. John and the fortress involve uneven ground, marble paths, slopes and steps that are challenging for strollers and wheelchairs. Comfortable shoes are essential, and visiting early helps you beat both the crowds and the midday heat.
Turkey is generally a safe and welcoming destination, and Selcuk is a relaxed town where serious crime is rare. As anywhere, keep an eye on valuables in busy areas and at the markets. At Ephesus, you may meet eager souvenir sellers, so a polite no is fine. Friendly locals and an easygoing pace mean most travelers feel very comfortable here.
Tipping is customary in Turkey and appreciated. In restaurants, leaving around 5 to 10 percent for good service is common, unless a service charge is already included. Small tips for guides, drivers and hotel staff are welcome too. Cash is the easiest way to tip, so keeping some Turkish lira on hand is helpful as you explore Selcuk and Ephesus.
The star attraction is the ancient city of Ephesus, with its grand Library of Celsus and great theater. In Selcuk itself, see the lone column of the Temple of Artemis, the hilltop Basilica of St. John and Ayasuluk Fortress, and the excellent Ephesus Archaeological Museum. Nearby, the House of the Virgin Mary and the charming hill village of Sirince are well worth visiting.
Turkey uses the Turkish lira (TRY). In Selcuk, hotels, larger restaurants and shops generally accept cards, but smaller cafes, market stalls and some attractions prefer cash. ATMs and exchange offices are available in town. It is handy to carry some lira for everyday purchases, tipping and the local bazaar, where cash is often the easiest way to pay.
The official language is Turkish. In Selcuk and around Ephesus, which welcome many international visitors, English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants and shops, so getting by is easy. Learning a few Turkish phrases is appreciated and adds a friendly touch to your interactions with the welcoming locals.
Turkish cuisine is rich and varied. Try gozleme, a thin stuffed flatbread, and kofte, grilled meatballs, along with fresh mezze starters and crisp salads. Sample local olives, cheeses and figs from the fertile Aegean region. Pair your meal with ayran, a refreshing yogurt drink, or Turkish tea, and finish with baklava or lokum, also known as Turkish delight.
Spring, from April to June, and autumn, in September and October, are the best times to visit Selcuk, with warm, comfortable weather ideal for exploring Ephesus without the intense summer heat. Summers are hot, so early starts are best for the largely shadeless ruins. Winters are cool and quiet but still pleasant for sightseeing, with fewer crowds at the main sites.
