Selçuk, Turkey: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2025

Selçuk offers a wonderful range of places to stay, blending small-town warmth with easy access to major historical sites. Most accommodations are clustered around three main areas — the town center, Ayasuluk Hill, and the nearby village of Şirince — each with its own charm and atmosphere.

In the town center, you’ll find a mix of comfortable mid-range hotels and friendly guesthouses within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the train station. Staying here is convenient if you plan to explore Ephesus and the surrounding region without a car. A great option is Hotel Bella, known for its rooftop terrace overlooking the Basilica of St. John and its traditional décor. Another popular choice is Urkmez Hotel, a welcoming, family-run property with clean rooms and a warm, local atmosphere. Both provide easy access to the Ephesus Museum and İsa Bey Mosque, as well as the dolmuş (minibus) stops for day trips.

For a more historical setting, Ayasuluk Hill offers boutique stays that combine history and elegance. This area sits just above the main town, offering quiet surroundings and panoramic views over the valley. Ayasoluk Hotel is a standout, blending restored stone architecture with modern comfort, plus an on-site restaurant serving organic Aegean cuisine. Nearby, Livia Hotel Ephesus delivers refined rooms and a serene garden atmosphere just a short walk from the Basilica of St. John.

If you prefer a more rustic and romantic escape, the hillside village of Şirince, around 8 km from Selçuk, is perfect. Known for its stone houses, winding cobbled streets, and local wine, it’s an idyllic alternative to staying in town. Several traditional guesthouses and small boutique hotels offer charming views and peaceful surroundings. Staying here provides a quiet retreat while still being close enough to Ephesus and Selçuk for day visits.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Selçuk. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Visiting Selçuk in Spring (Best)

Spring, from March to May, is the best time to visit Selçuk. The weather is warm but not too hot, with blooming wildflowers and green hills creating a stunning backdrop for exploring Ephesus and the surrounding countryside. This season also hosts the Efes Culture, Art, and Tourism Festival, celebrating the region’s music, dance, and heritage — a highlight for visitors seeking a cultural experience.

Visiting Selçuk in Summer

Summer (June to August) brings high temperatures and larger crowds, especially at Ephesus. Despite the heat, early mornings and evenings are pleasant, and long daylight hours make it ideal for sightseeing and photography. Beaches in nearby Kuşadası also provide a refreshing escape after a day of exploring.

Visiting Selçuk in Autumn

Autumn (September to November) offers cooler weather and fewer tourists, making it another great season to visit. The vineyards and olive groves of the region are in harvest, giving the town a rustic, festive atmosphere. It’s an excellent time for wine tasting in nearby Şirince Village and relaxed strolls through the countryside.

Visiting Selçuk in Winter

Winter (December to February) is the quietest season, with mild temperatures compared to much of Europe. While some attractions operate on reduced hours, the peaceful atmosphere and lower prices make it ideal for travelers seeking solitude and authentic local encounters.

Getting to Selçuk by Air

Nearest airports: The closest major airport is Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), located about 60 km north of Selçuk. It offers frequent domestic and international flights, including routes from Istanbul, Ankara, and several European cities. From the airport, you can reach Selçuk by train, car rental, or shuttle bus in about an hour.
For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to on Booking.com.

Getting to Selçuk by Train

Selçuk is conveniently located on Turkey's main western railway line. Trains run frequently between Izmir, Denizli, and other nearby cities, stopping at Selçuk Station in the town center. The journey from Izmir takes about 1 hour, while trains from Denizli (via Pamukkale) take roughly 3 hours. This makes train travel a comfortable and scenic option for visitors exploring the Aegean region.
You can use the official TCDD Taşımacılık website to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for Turkey's national and regional trains operated by TCDD. For a more streamlined experience (especially if you prefer an English interface or want to compare across countries), we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book train tickets across Turkey and the rest of Europe — all in one place.

Getting to Selçuk by Car

Selçuk is well connected by road, sitting along the D550 highway between Izmir and Aydın. Driving from Izmir takes just over an hour, and the route is clearly signposted. Car rental is widely available at the airport and in major cities, giving visitors flexibility to explore nearby attractions like Şirince, Kuşadası, and the Temple of Artemis. Parking is easy and inexpensive in town, though expect some narrow streets in the historic center.
If you are looking to rent a car in Turkey I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Travelling Around Selçuk

Once in Selçuk, getting around is simple. The town is compact and easy to navigate on foot, with most major sites within walking distance. Local dolmuş minibuses connect Selçuk with Ephesus, Şirince, and Kuşadası. Taxis are also available for short trips or reaching more remote spots such as the House of the Virgin Mary. Renting a scooter or bicycle is another fun way to explore the surrounding countryside at your own pace.