If you like the Ancient Greeks, you will love Turkey. It’s home to a phenomenal number of spectacular ruins: from amphitheatres, towns and temples to the world famous library of Ephesus.
We’ve been to many of them and, apart from Troy (a huge anti-climax – don’t bother unless you’re nearby), they are all worth a visit. We have to point out that we’ve not been to Aphrodisias yet, or it would probably be on the list, but here’s our top 5:
Ephesus:
Why? Ephesus easily rivals the Acropolis and is Europe’s most complete classical city.
During the Roman Empire, Ephesus had over 250,000 inhabitants and was the fourth largest city in the empire. Today, it’s well preserved and there’s far more to the site than the iconic library of Celsus. Don’t miss: the amphitheatre, the terraced houses, Curetes Way, the Temple of Hadrian, the latrines, Harbour Street and the Agora.
The town of Selcuk has other notable classical sites – check out the 14th century Isa Bey Mosque, the Temple of Artemis and the Cave of The Seven Sleepers.
Tip – if you’re overnighting, stay in the nearby village of Sirince. Despite tourist hoards during the day, in the evening this hilltop village of traditional Greek houses is beautiful, low key and atmospheric. The local food is also amazing.
Pergamon:
Why? The dramatic setting and lack of crowds.
The large, ancient site of Pergamon is perched on top of a hill with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. As it’s not near any main tourist sites, it’s remarkably quiet and we had whole areas to ourselves when we visited. It’s UNESCO listed, don’t miss the remarkable shelving amphitheatre and the Asklepion.
Tip – visit early evening for the best views and the chance to have the place to yourself.
Didyma:
Why? For intact temple walls and a sense of scale.
Didyma was a world famous ancient religious centre. The Temple of Apollo was, and is, architecturally stunning and a magnet because of its oracle. Today, the flights of steps, walls and columns still give an impression of the size and grandeur of the past.
Tip – combine your visit with nearby Miletus and Priene , both impressive sites.
Perge:
Why? For sheer size.
Perge is one of the largest ancient settlements in Europe. The site is vast and home to: an acropolis, amphitheatres, a stadium, colonnaded streets, baths, ornate gates and a northern and southern nymphaeum.
Tip – take water and sunscreen as there’s no shade.
Assos:
Why? For sea views and serenity.
The hilltop 6th century BC city of Assos is compact, but still home to an agora, amphitheatre and necropolis. The view from the Temple of Athena is breathtaking – overlooking the coast and the nearby Greek island of Lesbos. As it’s off the beaten track, it’s another site you can have to yourselves at certain times of the day.
Tip – stay, or at least eat, in the beautiful port of Assos at the bottom of the hill. It’s our favourite place in Turkey.
Other sites:
Narrowing down our list to 5 was difficult. Don’t miss the following if you’re nearby: Dalyan, Aspendos, Side and Heiropolis.