Understanding Izmir means embracing the success and admiration of Turkey’s third-largest city and its smaller coastal resorts. The province has long been renowned as a central Aegean hub, known throughout Turkey for setting trends and being forward-thinking.
Spanning a significant portion of the western coast, many still recall the days when Izmir was known as Smyrna. Its historical significance stretches back over 5,000 years, encompassing numerous empires including the Aeolians, Ionians, Lydians, Alexander the Great, and Romans. A key point in its history was as a center of early Christianity, and by the time Ottoman rule began in the 15th century, it had become a major international trading port due to its strategic location on the Aegean Sea.
Izmir’s success in business and economy continues today, now complemented by achievements in education and tourism. If you plan to visit, be prepared to enjoy a fascinating insight into Turkey’s most cosmopolitan city.
Izmir, Turkiye
All About Izmir in Aegean Turkey
1: Reasons to Visit Izmir
There are numerous reasons to visit Izmir, but perhaps the best is its uniqueness within Turkey. Its reputation as a western-oriented destination perfectly introduces the laid-back attitude of Aegean Turkey. From budget hostels to luxurious five-star hotels, Izmir offers diverse accommodation options. Culinary experiences abound, ranging from global cuisines to traditional street food. Visitors will never run out of things to do, and Izmir is home to one of Turkey’s top attractions, the ancient city of Ephesus. Read on to discover more reasons to add Izmir to your travel list.
2: How to Get There
Izmir, Turkiye
Traveling to Izmir is straightforward, whether from within Turkey or abroad. Adnan Menderes Airport is just a 30-minute drive from the city center and offers year-round international and domestic flights, especially to and from Istanbul. The city’s central bus station (otogar) has frequent routes to many parts of Turkey, and drivers can rely on Izmir’s connections to major highways like the D550. Additionally, Izmir city and nearby Cesme coastal resort are official sea entry ports.
3: When to Visit
The best time to visit depends on your activities and destinations. The main tourism season runs from May to October, when coastal resorts are at their peak. Outside these months, local life slows down, and the weather becomes cooler, making sunbathing and swimming less appealing. January and February are the coldest months with the most rainfall, while August and September are the hottest, often reaching mid-40s in temperature. For those who enjoy exploring, March to June and September to December are ideal times to visit.
4: About Izmir’s Regional Cuisine
While you can find any food you desire in Izmir, sampling the regional cuisine is highly recommended. The Kordon area in the city center is famous for fresh fish and seafood, offering delights like sea bass, sea bream, grilled octopus, and calamari, often paired with traditional Turkish mezes and a glass of Raki, Turkey’s national alcoholic drink. Popular regional items sold by bakeries and street vendors include Boyoz, a pastry often filled with spinach or cheese, typically eaten with a boiled egg. Kumru sandwiches make a perfect on-the-go lunch, while Sambali is a treat for those with a sweet tooth.
Izmir, Turkiye
5: Notable Areas of Interest
Izmir refers not only to the city center but also to the larger peninsula, which includes many interesting places for exploration or overnight stays. Some notable areas include:
- Konak Square: Known as old Izmir, the Konak district is home to the famous clock tower, an iconic landmark, and the nearby 18th-century yali mosque. The Kemeralti bazaar, Izmir’s oldest market, is a short walk away and perfect for souvenir shopping.
- Cesme and Alacati: These coastal resorts are popular getaways, known for Alacati’s blue and white Greek cottages and windsurfing, and Cesme’s reputation as an upscale resort.
- Foca: Located 43 miles from the city center, Foca is a favorite destination for retirees, featuring two bays and an ancient castle. The area is protected due to its unique flora and fauna.
- Seferihisar: Turkey’s first Cittaslow city, promoting quality of life through urban planning, cultural preservation, and eco-friendly practices.
- Tire: Known for its fertile lands and production of cotton, cherries, figs, watermelon, and tobacco, Tire is respected in domestic tourism and offers a glimpse into traditional craftsmanship.
- Guzelbahce: Meaning “pretty garden,” this area is ideal for trekking, hiking, and outdoor exploration, with many Turks owning summer houses here.
6: Things to Do and Places of Interest
A three-day visit is enough to tour the main sites, but Izmir offers enough activities to keep you occupied for weeks. Popular attractions include:
- Ephesus City Ruins: One of Turkey’s top three most visited sites, Ephesus offers ancient buildings like the large theatre, Celsius library, and terraced Roman houses.
- Pergamon: Famous for its steep theatre and the invention of parchment paper in the 2nd century BC.
- Beaches: Smaller coastal resorts like Ilica, Urla, Mordogan, Akkum, and Foca offer some of Izmir’s best beaches.
- Museums: Notable museums include the Ataturk, Arkas Art (featuring Picasso), Key Museum (cars and motorbikes), Archaeological, History and Art, and the Arts and Sculpture Museum.
- Izmir Wildlife Park: Home to a variety of animals living in environments that mimic their natural habitats.
- Kadifekale: Also known as the velvet castle, it offers fantastic views despite being in ruins.
- Agora Ruins: The ruins of the ancient market place of Smyrna provide insight into Izmir’s history.
- Asansor: This historical building offers a rooftop restaurant with stunning views over the city and bay.
Exploring Izmir reveals a vast range of activities and attractions, making it a must-visit destination with endless opportunities for discovery