Ephesus or not

I have been to Rome and Athens and other ruins all over the world, and I would say do not miss Ephesus. It's amazing to walk through and see these incredible and historic structures. I can't even explain how I felt when I was there. It was like no place else. I'm not religious, but knowing that people like the Apostles Paul and John walked the same path and preached there just sends shivers down my spine.

It was at the top of my list when I went to Turkey back in 2007 and I'm so glad I went there. I had about the same amount of time you did, and it was at the top of my list. Of course, if you decide not to go there, that's your business and no one else's. But since you're asking, my recommendation is not to miss it.

And don't forget that the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus is one of the seven wonders or the ancient world.

We have visited Rome, Ostia Antica, Pompeii, Herculaneum, Athens, and Egypt. We just returned this week from Turkey. We hired a private guide from Ephesus Shuttle to visit Ephesus. It was the highlight of our trip! I debated whether or not to see the terraced houses, and I am SO glad we did. Yes, we've seen similar houses in Italy, but these were different and extremely well preserved. I think that having a good guide to explain the details makes all the difference. I would highly suggest going to Ephesus and highly suggest hiring a guide.

Completely agree with Mardee. I have visited Ephesus multiple times over the decades and am always impressed and amazed at the efforts to excavate and highlight the area. Like you and your husband, I have visited Greek and Roman ruins throughout Europe and Africa and understand questioning whether another site is worth it--it most definitely is! I believe Ephesus is best appreciated as an entire city rather than an isolated temple or colosseum. You essentially can walk through the entire city layout (at least the sections that have been excavated) to understand the "flow" of city life. I would strongly recommend that you consider using a private guide (do some research to see if any strike your fancy); and, your visit must definitely include the terrace houses which I believe require an additional fee, but it is so worth it.

Good luck,

~Darrel

And don't forget that the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus is one of the seven wonders or the ancient world.

Yes, that's definitely a must-see while you're there. There are just foundations and fragments remaining. But when you think of the history behind it and what it stood for, it just makes me shiver.

I completely understand about “ruin overload.” I’ve felt that way on a long trip before. However, Ephesus isn’t just a ruin. It was a highlight for me. I would spend the extra day.

We've been to Rome, Ostia Antica, Athens, Pompeii, Delos, Ephesus, and other sites. While "ruin burnout" is understandable, do not miss Ephesus. You will regret it. The history of the place, and the condition of the ruins is what makes it unique.

One more thing; if you do decide to go to Ephesus and are looking for a guide, here is a recent thread that mentions one guide that is recommended. https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/turkey/private-tour-guide-ephesus-kusadasi-recommendations

Thank you all for the helpful replies. We will add Ephesus to our itinerary.