Izmir - Discovering Turkey

Travelling to Izmir

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Izmir, a pretty good destination in Turkey (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Izmir and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Izmir, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Turkey, here's everything to know about Izmir for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Izmir

Izmir is a city on the western coast of Turkey, located on the Aegean Sea. It is the third-largest city in Turkey with a population of over 4 million people, and it is a significant commercial and industrial center for the country. With a history dating back to ancient times, there are many historical sites to visit in Izmir, including the Agora Open Air Museum, the Kadifekale castle, and the Roman Amphitheater. Izmir also has a beautiful coastline, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking sun, sea, and sand.

What to visit in Izmir

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Izmir, Turkey and some information about each: 1. Kemeralti Bazaar - This is a historical open-air market that dates back to the 17th century. The market has a maze-like layout and sells a variety of goods, including spices, textiles, jewelry, and antiques. It's a great place to shop, eat, and soak up the local culture.
2. Konak Square and Clock Tower - Konak Square is a popular gathering spot in the heart of Izmir. It's known for its impressive clock tower, which was built in 1901 and stands 25 meters tall. The tower is an iconic symbol of the city.
3. Kadifekale - This ancient castle dates back to the 3rd century BC and sits atop a hill overlooking the city. Visitors can climb to the top of the castle for stunning views of Izmir and the Aegean Sea.
4. Alsancak - This historic neighborhood is known for its charming streets, cafes, and shops. It's a great place to wander and explore the local architecture and culture.
5. Saat Kulesi - Saat Kulesi, or the "Clock Tower of Izmir," is a historic clock tower located in the Konak Square area of the city. It was built in 1901 and is an iconic symbol of Izmir.
6. Izmir Archaeological Museum - This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from the ancient city of Smyrna, as well as other nearby sites. Visitors can see everything from ancient pottery and sculptures to mosaics and coins.
7. Agora of Smyrna - This ancient Roman marketplace dates back to the 4th century BC and is one of the best-preserved examples of an ancient agora in Turkey. It's a great place to explore and learn about the history of the city.
8. Asansör - This historic elevator was built in 1907 and connects the coastal neighborhood of Karatas to the higher neighborhood of Kemeralti. It offers stunning views of the city and the Aegean Sea and is a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
9. Ataturk Museum - This museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey. Visitors can see personal items, photographs, and documents related to Ataturk's life and political career.
10. Cesme Castle - This impressive medieval castle was built by the Genoese in the 14th century. It overlooks the harbor of Cesme and is a popular spot for history buffs and photographers.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Turkey, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Izmir.

When to go on holiday to Izmir

The best time to visit Izmir, Turkey is during the months of April, May, September and October. During these months, the weather is mild with average temperatures around 20-25°C, making it pleasant for sightseeing and other outdoor activities. Moreover, the crowds are much smaller during this time as the peak tourist season starts from late June till August. However, if you are interested in visiting the beach, swimming or sunbathing, then the peak season may be the best time to go as the weather is very warm and sunny. Just keep in mind that accommodation and flights may be more expensive during this time and the beaches could be crowded.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Izmir

There are several ways to get to Izmir, Turkey: 1. By air: Izmir has its own airport, Adnan Menderes Airport, which is located about 18 km southwest of the city center. There are regular international flights from major cities around the world.
2. By train: There are direct train services from Istanbul to Izmir. The journey takes about 13 hours.
3. By bus: There are regular bus services to Izmir from Istanbul, Ankara, and other major cities in Turkey.
4. By car: You can rent a car and take the coastal highway from Istanbul to Izmir, which offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
Once you arrive in Izmir, there are several transportation options available, including taxis, public buses, and metro.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Izmir, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Izmir

Sure, here are some typical foods of Izmir: 1. Boyoz - A local pastry made with flour and yeast, then filled with a mixture of cheese, eggs, and olive oil. It's served for breakfast with a cup of Turkish tea.
2. Kumru - A warm, crusty sandwich made with a sesame-covered bread roll, filled with cheese, tomatoes, and sucuk (Turkish sausage).
3. Çiğ köfte - A type of spicy minced meatball that’s served with lettuce leaves, sour pomegranate sauce, and freshly-squeezed lemon juice.
4. Kuzu İncik - Braised lamb shanks that are slow-cooked with garlic, tomatoes, onions, and various herbs and spices.
5. Şambali - A type of Turkish sweet cake made with semolina, soaked in syrup, and topped with chopped nuts.
6. Midye dolma - Steamed mussels stuffed with a mixture of spicy rice, pine nuts, and currants.
7. İzmir köfte - A type of meatball made with ground beef and lamb mixed with bread crumbs, onions, garlic, and spices, then grilled to perfection.
8. Enginar dolması - Artichoke hearts that are stuffed with a mixture of rice, onions, tomatoes, and various herbs and spices and cooked in olive oil.
You can find general info about typical foods in Turkey here.

Is Izmir an expensive destination for tourists?

Izmir, Turkey is not considered a very expensive destination for tourists. In general, the cost of living in Izmir is lower than in other popular Turkish cities such as Istanbul or Antalya. Accommodation prices can vary depending on the season and location, but overall they are reasonably priced. The cost of food, transportation, and attractions are also relatively affordable. However, as with any travel destination, the cost of your trip to Izmir will largely depend on your personal preferences and budget.

Where to find accomodation in Izmir

In Izmir, there are several areas where you can find good accommodation depending on your preferences and budget. If you want to be close to the city center and the main tourist attractions, you can choose Konak, Alsancak or Karsiyaka. For a more relaxed and quieter environment, you can consider coastal areas such as Balcova or Cesme. There are also some popular beach resorts outside the city center, like Foca and Urla. Overall, it is best to choose a location that fits your itinerary and travel style.
You can check hotel prices at Izmir here:
Booking.com

Is Izmir a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Izmir is generally considered a safe place for tourists. It is a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers, and the city takes measures to ensure the safety and security of visitors. However, as in any city, it is important to take basic safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding walking alone at night in unlit areas, and keeping valuables secure. It's also a good idea to follow the advice of local authorities and stay informed about any potential security risks.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Turkey here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Izmir.

What type of travelers will enjoy Izmir the most?

Izmir can be a great destination for different types of travelers. - Couples can enjoy the city's romantic atmosphere and beautiful coastal views, such as walking hand-in-hand along the Konak Pier. They may also find it interesting to visit the historical landmarks such as the Kadifekale Castle or the Kemeralti Bazaar. - Young people can have fun discovering Izmir's nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs in the Kordon promenade area. They may also enjoy spending a day at the beach in Cesme, which is about an hour's drive from the city. - Families can explore the city's museums and parks that cater to all ages, such as the Izmir Wildlife Park or the Blue Park. They can also take a ride on the historic Asansor that offers stunning views of the city and the Aegean Sea. Overall, Izmir can be a wonderful destination for different types of travelers, but it depends on their interests and preferences.

How to get around Izmir

In Izmir, you can use various types of transportation to move around the city, including buses, trains, metro, trams, ferries, and taxis. Buses and metro are the most common and affordable means of transportation in the city. The metro and tram systems are interconnected and cover most parts of the city, while buses offer more flexibility and multiple routes. Ferries are also available for transportation across the sea and along the coastline. Taxis are also widely available; however, they are usually more expensive compared to other modes of transportation.

What to see around Izmir

Certainly! Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Izmir: 1. Cesme: This beautiful area is located around an hour's drive away from Izmir and is known for its sandy beaches and turquoise waters. You can also visit the Cesme Castle, a fortress dating back to the Ottoman era.
2. Ephesus: This ancient city is one of the most well-preserved and impressive Roman ruins in the world. It is located around an hour and a half's drive from Izmir and is definitely worth a visit for history buffs.
3. Sirince: This charming village is located around an hour's drive away from Izmir and is known for its quaint cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and locally-produced fruit wines.
4. Karaburun: This is a peaceful coastal town that is located around an hour and a half's drive away from Izmir. It is surrounded by stunning views of the Aegean sea and you can enjoy some fresh seafood while you're there.
5. Urla: This is a picturesque town that is located around 45 minutes' drive from Izmir. It's a great place to visit for some relaxation and to sample locally produced wine and olive oil. Hopefully, this list helps you plan your day trip from Izmir!
For every travel information about Turkey you can click here.

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