Izmir Travel Guide

Turkey's third-largest city, Izmir is a bustling port, commercial hub and gateway to the Aegean Coast. Despite its size and importance, it retains a relaxed holiday atmosphere that draws visitors to its lively streets.

Vibrant and cosmopolitan, Izmir is also scenic, with its palm-lined promenades along the bay, complemented by elegant avenues and terraces that rise gently up the slopes of surrounding hills.

Visitors come to explore the sights, haggle in the colourful markets, and enjoy meals at the waterfront restaurants. Formerly known as Smyrna, the destination boasts a history dating back to around 3,000 BC. Though almost destroyed by a fire in 1922, the city has been thoughtfully rebuilt, blending modernity with historical charm.

Key sights include the 19th-century Clock Tower, the 18th-century Konak Cami Mosque and the city's Archaeology Museum. A must-see is the iconic public elevator, which links Mithatpasa Street with the summit of Halil Rifat Pasa Hill. From here, visitors can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the city and the bay. One of the best ways to experience Izmir is to take a relaxing evening stroll or enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride along the promenade between Konak Meydan and Alsancak.

Shopping

Like any major city and popular holiday destination, Izmir offers a variety of shopping options. The best stores are found along the Kordon Promenades in Alsancak, Karsiyaka, and Cumhuriyet Avenue. However, the real charm lies in the atmospheric old district, with its narrow streets and hidden doorways.

Konak Square and Kemeralty Bazaar are vibrant marketplaces, perfect for those looking to shop for antiques, dried figs (a local specialty), handmade shoes, fine jewelry, and clothing.

Restaurants

Izmir is well known for its exceptional seafood, but it caters to all tastes with a wide range of affordable eateries. The Kordon Boyu promenade is lined with excellent restaurants offering views of the Aegean. A local specialty is Cipura, or gilt-head bream, which is often grilled and served with fresh greens, herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. It's so popular that it's farmed locally and served in many restaurants.

Nightlife

Izmir's nightlife offers something for everyone, whether visitors are seeking a lively atmosphere or a more laid-back evening. The after-dark scene centres around the Kordon Boyu, Passport Pier, and Karsiyaka, where nightclubs and bars stay open into the early hours. Alsancak's 1448 Sokak is particularly well-known for its clubs, and it's also a popular area for LGBTQ+ nightlife.

Holiday activities

Izmir boasts fascinating archaeological sites and museums, including the Izmir Museum of Archaeology, which is home to artefacts from the region's ancient civilisations. The city's parks, such as Kulturpark, provide a perfect escape after a day of sightseeing, with its amusement park, zoo, restaurants, and tranquil gardens. The Kadifekale Castle, perched on a hilltop, is another popular attraction, offering sweeping views of the city.

Visitors can take a stroll along the waterfront promenade or wander through the charming streets of Alsancak. Numerous day trips from Izmir are also worth exploring.

Just a short dolmus (minibus) ride to the west is the Cesme Peninsula, famous for its beautiful sandy beaches. Here, travellers can enjoy water sports or take a scenic boat trip along the coast. Local operators offer excursions to nearby thermal baths, fishing villages, and even the renowned Roman ruins of Ephesus, which is about an hour's drive from Izmir.

Any negatives?

Visitors should be aware that summer temperatures in Izmir can be quite extreme, often exceeding 35°C (95°F) during the hottest months of July and August. It's advisable to plan outdoor activities in the cooler parts of the day, especially during the peak summer season.