Top 10 Ancient Cities to Visit in Turkey: A Historical Travel Guide
Turkey is a country that has hosted many civilisations throughout history and attracts attention with its rich cultural heritage. The ancient cities in these lands are full of unique structures that carry the traces of the past to the present. These cities, each telling a different story, are almost open-air museums for history and archaeology enthusiasts. So, what are the best ancient cities in Turkey? How to visit ancient cities in Turkey? Let's explore together.
1. Ancient City of Ephesus (Izmir)
Ephesus is considered one of the most important metropolises of the ancient world. With a history dating back to 6000 BC, it has witnessed the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods. It is famous for its buildings such as the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Artemis and the Grand Theatre.
Transportation: You can reach the Selçuk district from Izmir by minibuses. You can reach Ephesus from Selçuk with a short minibus ride.
Visiting Hours:
Summer (April-October): 08:00 - 19:00
Winter Period (November-March): 08:00 - 17:00
Entrance Fee: 400 TL (Müzekart is valid). There is an additional 85 TL fee for Terrace Houses.
Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds. We also recommend taking extra time to see the Terrace Houses.
2. Ancient City of Aphrodisias (Aydın)
Aphrodisias is one of the most important sculpture centres of the Roman period. It attracts attention with its Temple of Aphrodite, Sebasteion and large stadium.
Transportation: You can reach the Karacasu district from the centre of Aydin and from there to Aphrodisias. The total distance is approximately 100 km.
Visiting Hours: 08:00 - 19:00 (until 17:00 in winter)
Entrance Fee: 12 Euros (Müzekart is valid).
Sightseeing Tip: The size and preservation of the stadium are impressive. It is an ideal place for photographers.
3. Aspendos Ancient City (Antalya)
Aspendos is especially famous for its Roman theatre. With a capacity of approximately 15,000 people, it still hosts concerts and events today.
Transportation: It is 8 km to the Serik district of Antalya. You can reach from the centre of Antalya via the D400 highway in the direction of Serik.
Visiting Hours:
Summer Period: 08:00 - 19:00
Winter Period: 08:30 - 17:30
Entrance Fee: 200 TL (Müzekart is valid).
Travel Tip: It is the ideal time to take photos at sunset in the theatre.
4. Ancient City of Laodikeia (Denizli)
Laodikeia is one of the important trade and textile centres of antiquity. It attracts attention with its great theatre, stadium and church.
Transportation: You can reach Pamukkale road from Denizli center in about 10 minutes.
Visiting Hours:
Summer Period: 08:00 - 19:00
Winter Period: 08:00 - 17:00
Entrance Fee: 280 TL (Müzekart is valid).
Travel Tip: Thanks to its proximity to Pamukkale, you can visit both places on the same day.
5. Patara Ancient City (Antalya)
Patara is one of the most important port cities of Lycia. It is also known as the birthplace of St. Nicholas, known as Santa Claus.
Transportation: It is located between the Kaş district of Antalya and Fethiye. It is 42 km to Kas and 72 km to Fethiye.
Visiting Hours:
April 1 - October 31: 08:00 - 19:30
November 1 - March 31: 08:30 - 17:30
Entrance Fee: 15€ (Müzekart is valid).
Travel Tip: Thanks to its proximity to Patara Beach, you can combine the pleasure of the sea with a historical trip.
6. Ancient City of Assos (Çanakkale)
Assos is where the philosopher Aristotle lived and taught for a while. It is famous for the Temple of Athena overlooking the sea.
Transportation: It is located in the Behramkale village of Ayvacık district of Çanakkale. It is 86 km from Çanakkale and 156 km from Balıkesir.
Visiting Hours: 08:00 - 20:00
Entrance Fee: It is recommended to contact the Assos Archaeological Site for current fee information.
Travel Tip: You can take a walk by the sea in Assos Ancient Harbour and enjoy fresh seafood.
7. Ancient City of Hierapolis (Denizli)
Hierapolis is located right next to the Pamukkale travertines. It is famous for its ancient theatre, necropolis and ancient pool.
Transportation: You can reach Pamukkale from Denizli centre by minibuses. You can reach Hierapolis with a short walk from Pamukkale.
Visiting Hours:
Summer Period: 08:00 - 19:00
Winter Period: 08:00 - 17:00
Entrance Fee: It is recommended to get information from local sources for current fee information.
Sightseeing Tip: You can experience swimming in the ancient pool. However, it is recommended to go early, considering that the pool may be busy.
8. Ancient City of Bergama (Pergamon) (Izmir)
Bergama is known as the capital of the Kingdom of Pergamon in ancient times and was one of the most important cultural and health centres of the Hellenistic period. It is known for its buildings such as the Acropolis, the Asclepion and the Library of Pergamon.
Transportation:
By road: You can follow the E87 highway from Izmir city centre and head towards Bergama. You can reach the Pergamon Ancient City with a drive of approximately 1.5 hours.
By Public Transportation: There are regular buses departing from Izmir Bus Station to Bergama. You can reach the ancient city with a short taxi ride from the Bergama bus station.
By Cable Car: Since the ancient city is located on a hill, there is a cable car service. For the year 2023, students can pass to the ancient city for 120 TL or the full 160 TL. You pay the cable car fee only on the way; there is no additional charge for the return.
Visiting Hours:
Summer Period (April 1 - October 1): 08:30 - 20:00
Winter Period (October 1 - April 1): 08:30 - 17:30
Entrance Fee: As of 2025, the entrance fee is 15 Euros, equivalent to Turkish Lira. The Museum Card is valid.
Travel Tip:
It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes when visiting the ancient city, as the area is quite large and hilly.
It is recommended to spend at least half a day to visit the Acropolis and the Asclepion areas.
You can visit the Bergama Museum and take a closer look at the artefacts unearthed from the region.
9. Ancient City of Perge (Antalya)
Located in the Aksu district of Antalya, the ancient city of Perge draws attention with its monumental structures from the Roman period. It offers a magnificent atmosphere to its visitors with its theatre, stadium, agora and collonaded streets.
Transportation: You can reach the Aksu district from Antalya city centre by bus or private car in about 20 minutes. You can easily reach Perge Ancient City from the Aksu district by following the signs directing you to Perge Ancient City.
Visiting Hours:
Summer Period (April 1 - October 31): 08:30 - 19:00
Winter Period (November 1 - March 31): 08:30 - 17:30
It is open to visitors every day.
Entrance Fee: 400₺ (free entrance is possible with Müzekart).
Travel Tip: It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes when visiting the Ancient City of Perge, as the area is quite large. It will also be useful to have a hat and water to protect yourself from the sun.
10. Sagalassos Ancient City (Burdur)
Sagalassos Ancient City, located 1500 meters above sea level in the Ağlasun district of Burdur, draws attention with its Roman buildings and magnificent view. It offers a historical journey to its visitors with its structures such as the Antonine Fountain, the theatre and the agora.
Transportation: After reaching the Ağlasun district from Burdur city centre, you can reach Sagalassos Ancient City with a journey of approximately 7 km. It is worth noting that the road is winding and narrow for those travelling by private car.
Visiting Hours:
Summer Period (April 15 - October 1): 08:30 - 21:00
Winter (October 16 - April 2): 08:30 - 17:30
It is open to visitors every day.
Entrance Fee: 291₺ (Müzekart is valid).
Travel Tip: When visiting Sagalassos Ancient City, it is recommended to bring sunscreen and water due to the high altitude and open areas. It will also be useful to wear comfortable shoes.
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