There are many issues to do in Izmir, a metropolis that’s full of historical past, wonderful meals, implausible surroundings, and vibrant nightlife. There’s extra to Turkey than simply seashore resorts; it’s residence to a variety of implausible cities to discover, and one in every of my favorites is Izmir.
Because the third largest metropolis within the nation, Izmir has a laid-back, student-like vibe, but it surely’s removed from missing in substance.
My husband is from Aydin, which is round an hour’s drive away from Izmir. As such, we regularly go to and spend just a few days or perhaps a month there often.
It’s a spot that’s so endearing, I by no means wish to go away, and since there are such a lot of locations to see in Izmir, it by no means will get boring. It’s straightforward to see why that is such a must-visit vacation spot.
This whole a part of Turkey is like an open-air museum, with loads of Greek-era historical past to take a look at. One of the crucial in style Izmir points of interest is nearby Ephesus, one in every of my favourite locations in the entire world.
By the top of this information, I hope you’ll have fallen in love with the thought of visiting Izmir, simply as a lot as I like it in actual life.
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Greatest Issues To Do in Izmir
First issues first: Izmir is a big metropolis, so that you’re going to wish to make use of public transport, taxis, or drive to get round. Don’t be apprehensive about that, nonetheless, because it’s all fairly straightforward to do. The perfect sightseeing in Izmir is within the Alsancak/Konak space, however there are various different areas price exploring.
There are some nice day journeys simply exterior town and with so many high issues to do in Izmir itself, you’re going to wish to slender down your decisions. That’s the place my useful recommendation is available in helpful!
1. Konak Sq. & Izmir Clock Tower
One of the crucial well-known locations to go to in Izmir is Konak Square, which can also be residence to the well-known Izmir Clock Tower, in-built 1901. The sq. itself is a vibrant spot the place folks meet to talk, youngsters play, and avenue musicians carry out. It’s a busy a part of town, and the clock tower is all the time surrounded by many individuals taking images.
I used to be shocked at how well-preserved the tower is, and the design is so intricate. That is positively top-of-the-line free issues to do in Izmir, and the truth that there are such a lot of scrumptious avenue meals distributors round simply provides to the attraction.
In case you’re visiting Izmir on a sunny day, I like to recommend grabbing a espresso, sitting right here, and simply having fun with the hustle and bustle occurring round you. Nevertheless, you may also take an Izmir city tour which stops on the clock tower. Click here for details.
Handle: Kemeraltı Çarşısı, 35360 Konak/İzmir
2. Stroll Alongside the Kordon
One of many high points of interest in Izmir is the Kordon – a 1.5km lengthy waterside promenade that originates from the 1850s, operating from Alsancak all the best way down previous town heart. This is without doubt one of the coolest issues to do in Izmir, particularly on a sunny day.
You’ll see many locals simply wandering round and having fun with the climate, however you may also rent a motorcycle (there are cycle lanes), strive avenue meals, have a picnic on the grassed areas, or take the old school tram. That is such a picturesque space, so taking some snaps of your environment is a should.
Handle: Alsancak, 35250 Konak/İzmir
3. Go to Kemeraltı Çarşısı
One of many high issues to see in Izmir metropolis heart is Kemeraltı Çarşısı – an enormous open market the place you should buy just about every little thing you’ll be able to consider. That is additionally a terrific spot for conventional souvenirs, akin to Turkish delight, spices, and textiles.
From private expertise, this space is extremely busy, and it’s essential to maintain maintain of your youngsters in the event you’re touring as a household; the bazaar is slender and winding, and it’s very straightforward to get misplaced.
Additionally, do hold maintain of your bag right here; it’s not unsafe, however it’s a hotspot for pick-pockets, and it’s finest to be protected moderately than sorry, by taking precautions.
Out of all of the issues to do in Izmir, this is without doubt one of the most genuine. You’ll have to haggle, so begin practising now, and also you’ll seize the perfect bargains to take again residence with you.
Handle: 35360 Konak/İzmir
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4. A Day Journey to Ephesus
I’ve been to a variety of locations in Turkey, and most of them blew me away, however Ephesus was a very totally different beast. This place is so wonderful and stunningly stunning, and it’s one of many high locations to go to close to Izmir.
Relationship again to the tenth century BC, this was one of the essential and busiest cities of its time, and the ruins nonetheless stand extraordinarily well-preserved right now.
Many day and half-day tours go to Ephesus from Izmir, and also you’ll usually have a information with you that can assist you perceive what you’re seeing. If not, there are indicators with info in every single place, however I extremely suggest you’re taking your time right here. It’s an enormous area, and it may possibly get very crowded in the course of the summer time months. Click here for tour information.
In case you can, head to Ephesus in the course of the shoulder months and even the winter. There’s little or no shade, which makes visiting within the peak summer time months fairly uncomfortable. That is such a beautiful place, you don’t need the climate to spoil it.
Handle: Acarlar, Efes Harabeleri, 35920 Selçuk/İzmir
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5. Store at Discussion board Bornova
In case you get the urge to splash the money somewhat, a go to to Forum Bornova is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Izmir. Filled with home and worldwide shops, you’ll discover every little thing you’re searching for right here, and doubtless much more apart from.
That is an open-air shopping center, and it’s all the time embellished for numerous occasions, together with New 12 months. There are sometimes reveals operating and plenty of issues to do at any given time. It’s additionally full of eating places and occasional retailers, so you’ll be able to take your time looking and revel in just a few pitstops alongside the best way.
Handle: Kazımdirik, 372. Sk. No:75, 35100 Bornova/İzmir
6. Eat Road Meals in Alsancak
Attempting native avenue meals is one in every of my favourite issues to do regardless of the place I’m on the planet, however I discovered some implausible choices in Alsancak. This a part of town is full of life and vibrant regardless of the time of day, so that you’re certain to search out plenty of totally different meals to fit your style.
Be sure to give the well-known Izmir bombası a strive; Çelebi Unlu Mamuller is the perfect place to go, (there’s all the time an enormous queue exterior, which says so much!). And a phrase of recommendation: in the event you order it heat, be affected person – don’t be like me and burn your mouth! It’s full of chocolate and will certainly offer you a sugar rush.
You’ll discover doner kebabs, amongst different sorts of kebabs, sweetcorn, Börek, lahmacun, soup, toasties… the record goes on. One of the crucial enjoyable issues to do in Izmir is to take the Izmir City Gourmet Tour the place you’ll be able to fill your self up alongside the best way. Click here for details.
Handle: 35220 Konak/İzmir
7. Go to Hisar Mosque
Constructed between 1592 and 1598, Hisar Mosque is without doubt one of the high locations to go to in Izmir, and it’s proper within the coronary heart of town heart. Again in Ottoman occasions, this was town’s largest mosque, and it nonetheless stands proud right now, stunningly stunning in its structure.
Above the principle door, you’ll see the well-known inscription in gold leaf: “Whoever goes in there shall be protected.” The mosque advanced is giant and intricately embellished. It’s a serene and calm place in the course of town and a beautiful place to discover, whether or not you’ve been to a mosque earlier than or not.
In case you aren’t acquainted with mosque etiquette, you’ll have to put on respectable garments, (no shorts or vest tops). You’ll have to cowl your head with a shawl or pashmina in the event you’re a girl, and everybody must take off their footwear, so be sure to’ve acquired some socks with you. As soon as inside, spend a while in quiet contemplation and admire the gorgeous structure.
Handle: Konak, 904. Sk. No:52, 35250 Konak/İzmir
8. Agora Open Air Museum
The realm in and round Izmir is full of historical past, and a lot of it’s open to discover. Visiting Agora Open Air Museum is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Izmir for households as a result of it’s so giant and simple to stroll round. Youngsters will love trying out the ruins and hiding across the columns whereas studying one thing alongside the best way.
I really like outdated issues like this, and I notably loved visiting this enormous museum. It’s conveniently situated too, in contrast to Ephesus which it’s good to journey to.
It was initially constructed within the 4th century by the Greeks however, like many buildings of its time, it was devastated by an earthquake. Nevertheless, Roman Emperor Aurelius demanded it’s rebuilt and it turned one of the essential Roman websites thereafter.
This is without doubt one of the faster issues to see in Izmir; round 1.5 hours is sufficient time to spare, so you’ll be able to simply mix this with one thing else to refill your day.
Handle: Yeni, Tarik Sari Sokağı No:16, 35240 Konak/İzmir
9. Examine Out the Sundown from Pasaport
As you’re strolling alongside the Kordon, one of many high issues to do in Izmir for {couples} is to cease round sundown and take a look at the golden hues from Pasaport Pier. There are many small cafes and eating places round right here, so you would mix it together with your night meal, however the view is definitely one thing particular.
I had a scrumptious meal at Margaux Restaurant whereas watching the solar go down, and it was positively a night to recollect. However, even in the event you don’t wish to cease to eat, it’s a terrific concept to simply sit and watch the wonderful present from Mom Nature. By way of what to see in Izmir, I’d extremely suggest this as a stop-off level, and it’s one other place the place you’ll want your digital camera.
Handle: Akdeniz, Pasaport İskelesi, 35210 Konak/İzmir
10. Izmir Historic Elevator Constructing
One of the crucial distinctive issues to do in Izmir may also offer you loads of wonderful views on the similar time. The Historic Elevator Building won’t sound like a lot, however belief me, it’s top-of-the-line issues to do in Izmir, fingers down.
The constructing itself dates again to 1907, when a Jewish businessman called Nesim Levi determined to create the elevator to permit folks to maneuver from avenue to avenue with extra ease. Lately, the constructing presents probably the most gorgeous, sweeping view over the entire of Izmir, and on a transparent day, you’ll be able to see for miles. It’s one in every of my favourite views by far.
There’s a restaurant on the high, and it’s a terrific spot to go in the event you’re searching for a romantic night together with your accomplice. It’s a good suggestion to order a desk forward of time, nonetheless – once I went it was extraordinarily busy, and I used to be fortunate to get a desk.
Handle: Turgut Reis, Şht. Nihatbey Cd. 76/A, 35000 Konak/İzmir
11. Izmir Archaeology & Ethnography Museum
I really like museums, and this one is full of actually attention-grabbing artifacts courting again so far as the Bronze Age. In case you occur to get a wet day throughout your go to, positively head to the Izmir Archaeology & Ethnography Museum because it’s one of many high issues to do in Izmir, come rain or shine. Barely older youngsters, maybe age 10 and above, will get pleasure from exploring this museum.
For me, probably the most attention-grabbing piece was The Marble Statue of Androklos, which is claimed to have belonged to the founding father of close by Ephesus. There are many statues that had been salvaged from shipwrecks across the space, and I spent two hours exploring this enormous museum and its items. I felt like I actually discovered one thing too.
As one of many high vacationer points of interest in Izmir, it may possibly get fairly busy right here, particularly in the course of the weekends and public holidays. I like to recommend you go early after which spend the remainder of the day exploring the encompassing space.
Handle: Konak Mahallesi, Bahri Baba Parkı, Halil Rıfat Paşa Cd. No:4, 35260 Konak/İzmir
12. Take pleasure in Nature at İnciraltı Kent Ormanı
I stumbled upon İnciraltı Kent Ormanı, a beautiful pure area, by chance however I’m so glad I did. In case you’re visiting on a gentle day and the solar is shining, this is without doubt one of the high issues to do close to Izmir, and so many individuals don’t even realize it exists! Nevertheless, you’ll need to stroll truthful distance or get a taxi to search out it – it’s on the very finish of the Kordon, so I like to recommend a taxi to save lots of your toes.
İnciraltı Kent Ormanı is situated in Balçova, the place you’ll discover a small, pebbly seashore right here too, so take your swim gear. The forest itself is lush and inexperienced, with loads of shade in the course of the scorching days. There are small huts the place you’ll be able to have a picnic and even BBQ areas to benefit from, though do learn the indicators and abide by the foundations to keep away from the danger of fireplace.
For me, this is without doubt one of the best-hidden gem locations to see in Izmir, the place you’ll be able to see proper over town, all the best way again to Alsancak. Take some comfy footwear for all of the strolling you’ll do, however inhaling that recent forest air is an actual deal with.
Handle: Bahçelerarası, Engelliler Mrk. İçi Yolu, 35330 Balçova/İzmir
13. Go to Ataturk Museum
A go to to the Ataturk Museum ought to positively be in your record of issues to do in Izmir. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founding father of the Turkish Republic, is a very powerful determine in Turkey’s historical past. You’ll discover monuments devoted to him throughout the nation, however this specific museum helps you study a lot about his life and significance to Turkish folks.
This museum can also be centrally situated in Konak, so it’s straightforward to mix a visit right here with a number of spots for one full day in Izmir. As an illustration, you would stroll alongside the Kordon, go to this museum, go to Konak Sq. and the Clock Tower in a day, and nonetheless have time to roam.
I actually loved this museum, and I discovered so much. The constructing itself can also be essential because it’s the place Ataturk himself stayed whereas in Izmir. Inside you’ll discover objects that not solely inform you who Ataturk was, but in addition private objects that show you how to study extra deeply about him.
Handle: Alsancak Mh.,, Gündüğdu Caddesi No:242, 35220 Konak/İzmir
14. Haggle at Kızlarağası Inn
Purchasing is all the time enjoyable, however when you must haggle on your purchases, it’s even higher. Who is aware of what souvenirs you’ll come away with? Kızlarağası Inn dates again to Ottoman occasions, in 1744, and the outside structure is fairly spectacular, however inside is the place you’ll discover the treasure trove of buying alternatives.
Now, I’m not a haggling pure; it took me a while to construct my confidence, however now I can discount with the perfect of them. The advantage of this specific spot is that it’s very easy to comply with and as soon as inside, you’ll know you’re someplace atmospheric and historic.
That is one other spot I discovered by chance, and I imagine that simply strolling round this place is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Izmir. You discover so many issues that appear hidden away, and so they’re certain to boost your go to.
Handle: Tarihi Kızlarağası Hanı Han Yönetimi 871 Sokak No:19/106 Hisarönü, 35250 Konak/İzmir
15. Take pleasure in Izmir’s Vibrant Nightlife
It doesn’t matter what type of night you’re after, there are such a lot of issues to do in Izmir at evening. In case you’re after a chilled-out time, head to the Kordon and easily take a stroll, to benefit from the calm vibe and examine. In order for you one thing somewhat extra vibrant, head to both Alsancak or Bornova. In these areas, you’ll discover bars, eating places, cafes, cocktail bars, and nightclubs aplenty.
I all the time keep in Alsancak as a result of it’s so central, however equally as a result of the nightlife is so good. Eko Pub is one in every of my favourite locations to go within the night and their bar snacks are scrumptious too. Cafe Del Mundo is one other high spot, and it’s all the time evening at Molly Malone’s Irish Pub.
Handle: Alsancak, 35220 Konak/İzmir
BONUS!
Itemizing simply 15 enjoyable issues to do in Izmir was too arduous – right here’s an additional for you! In case you’re searching for an epic day journey, Pamukkale is sort of probably one of the scenic locations in Turkey. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for a carbonate mineral that’s leftover from the flowing thermal spring water – it appears to be like tremendous white!
On this trip from Izmir, you’ll go to Pamukkale and see the close by historical metropolis of Hierapolis. It’s a full day journey, however is price it for the views.
Issues To Do in Izmir: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on the perfect issues to do in Izmir, Turkey:
Izmir is thought for being a contemporary metropolis that’s stuffed with implausible points of interest. The Konak space is known, due to its waterside location however the metropolis has that laid-back vibe that makes you wish to return time and time once more.
Izmir is open all 12 months round, so there isn’t essentially a proper or unsuitable time to go – it is dependent upon what you wish to do. If you wish to spend time open air and by the seashore, the months between Could and October are superb. Nevertheless, for simpler sightseeing, I’d suggest visiting between March and June, and November.
There are such a lot of issues to see in Izmir that it ought to positively make it onto your must-visit record. Izmir is a really picturesque metropolis, but it surely additionally has plenty of historical past and modern-day enjoyable to dive into.
Three days is sufficient to get overview of town and to see the foremost sights. If you wish to go to sights across the space, akin to close by Kuşadası and Ephesus, then 5 days could be higher.
Izmir is a safe city to go to so long as you employ the identical frequent sense as you’ll in another giant metropolis world wide. Don’t stroll with extra quantities of money, and keep away from flashing valuables, notably in crowded areas.
One of the crucial in style issues to do in Izmir is to stroll alongside the waterside Kordon, which stretches from Alsancak all the best way down town and past. This route additionally takes you previous Izmir Clock Tower, one other well-known spot.
The Izmir area is known for a lot of various kinds of conventional meals, together with Manisa kebab, Izmir köfte, and kumru. The Izmir bombası is a candy deal with you HAVE to strive. For extra info on the dishes to not miss in Turkey, take a look at this put up: Turkish Meals: 15 Conventional Dishes to Strive in Turkey.
Three days is sufficient to see many of the high spots in Izmir, however if you wish to discover in a extra relaxed means, 5 days could also be a greater choice.
You can also make Izmir as low cost or as costly as you need. In comparison with many different giant European cities, the costs in Izmir are very cheap, but it surely is dependent upon the place you keep, eat, and spend your time.
Izmir’s nightlife is especially vibrant, and you could find every little thing from quiet and sedate venues to nightclubs. Alsancak is nice for nightlife, the place you’ll discover bars and golf equipment open till the early hours.
Town is lapped by the waters of the Aegean, but it surely doesn’t have a seashore. Close by Balçova has a small seashore, however there are a number of seashore resorts very near Izmir, together with Çeşme, Alaçatı, and Kuşadası.
It’s not advisable to swim within the metropolis heart, as a result of sheer variety of boats that use the waters, however you’ll be able to swim within the sea within the close by seashore resorts and additional away from town heart itself.
Each Izmir and Antalya are stunning in their very own proper, and neither is best than the opposite. Nevertheless, in order for you a extra cosmopolitan expertise, Izmir will serve you higher. However, Antalya has a few of the most stunning seashores in the entire of Turkey.
In Closing
Now you already know all the perfect locations to go to in Izmir, the one factor left to do is plan your keep. It’s no shock that many individuals return to Izmir 12 months after 12 months; it’s a kind of locations that grabs you, and makes it arduous to remain away.
The primary time I visited Izmir, I used to be stunned at how stunning it’s. I used to be so used to spending time in Istanbul that I didn’t assume one other metropolis might entice me fairly as a lot, however Izmir managed it. I’m fairly certain will probably be the identical story for you.
