There are many issues to do in Izmir, a metropolis that’s filled with historical past, wonderful meals, implausible surroundings, and vibrant nightlife. There’s extra to Turkey than simply seaside resorts; it’s residence to a spread of implausible cities to discover, and considered one of my favorites is Izmir. Because the third largest metropolis within the nation, Izmir has a laid-back, student-like vibe, however it’s removed from missing in substance.
My husband is from Aydin, which is round an hour’s drive away from Izmir. As such, we frequently go to and spend a couple of days or perhaps a month there sometimes. It’s a spot that’s so endearing, I by no means need to depart, and since there are such a lot of locations to see in Izmir, it by no means will get boring.
This complete 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 vital in style Izmir sights is close by Ephesus, considered one 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.
Finest Issues To Do in Izmir
First issues first: Izmir is a big metropolis, so that you’re going to want to make use of public transport, taxis, or drive to get round. Don’t be nervous about that, nonetheless, because it’s all fairly straightforward to do. The very best sightseeing in Izmir is within the Alsancak/Konak space, however there are a lot of different areas price exploring.
There are some nice day journeys simply outdoors town and with so many prime issues to do in Izmir itself, you’re going to need to slender down your selections. That’s the place my useful recommendation is available in helpful!
1. Konak Sq. & Izmir Clock Tower
One of the vital well-known locations to go to in Izmir is Konak Sq., which can be residence to the well-known Izmir Clock Tower, inbuilt 1901. The sq. itself is a vibrant spot the place folks meet to speak, kids play, and road musicians carry out. It’s a busy a part of town, and the clock tower is at all times surrounded by many individuals taking pictures.
I used to be shocked at how well-preserved the tower is, and the design is so intricate. That is undoubtedly among the finest free issues to do in Izmir, and the truth that there are such a lot of scrumptious road meals distributors round simply provides to the attraction.
When 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 happening round you. Nonetheless, you too can take an Izmir metropolis tour which stops on the clock tower. Click on right here for particulars.
Handle: Kemeraltı Çarşısı, 35360 Konak/İzmir
2. Stroll Alongside the Kordon
One of many prime sights in Izmir is the Kordon – a 1.5km lengthy waterside promenade that originates from the 1850s, working from Alsancak all the way in which down previous town middle. This is among 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 too can rent a motorbike (there are cycle lanes), strive road meals, have a picnic on the grassed areas, or take the old style 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 prime issues to see in Izmir metropolis middle is Kemeraltı Çarşısı – an enormous open market the place you should purchase just about every thing you possibly can consider. That is additionally an excellent spot for conventional souvenirs, resembling Turkish delight, spices, and textiles.
From private expertise, this space is extremely busy, and it’s essential to maintain maintain of your kids should you’re touring as a household; the bazaar is slender and winding, and it’s very straightforward to get misplaced. Additionally, do preserve maintain of your bag right here; it’s not unsafe, however it’s a hotspot for pick-pockets, and it’s finest to be secure somewhat than sorry, by taking precautions.
Out of all of the issues to do in Izmir, this is among the most genuine. You’ll have to haggle, so begin working towards now, and also you’ll seize the perfect bargains to take again residence with you.
Handle: 35360 Konak/İzmir
4. A Day Journey to Ephesus
I’ve been to loads of locations in Turkey, and most of them blew me away, however Ephesus was a completely completely different beast. This place is so wonderful and stunningly lovely, and it’s one of many prime locations to go to close to Izmir. Courting again to the tenth century BC, this was one of the crucial essential and busiest cities of its time, and the ruins nonetheless stand extraordinarily well-preserved right this moment.
Many day and half-day excursions go to Ephesus from Izmir, and also you’ll sometimes have a information with you that will help you perceive what you’re seeing. If not, there are indicators with data all over the place, however I extremely suggest you are taking your time right here. It’s an enormous house, and it could actually get very crowded throughout the summer time months. Click on right here for tour data.
When you can, head to Ephesus throughout 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
5. Store at Discussion board Bornova
When you get the urge to splash the money a little bit, a go to to Discussion board Bornova is among the finest issues to do in Izmir. Full of home and worldwide shops, you’ll discover every thing you’re in search of right here, and possibly much more apart from.
That is an open-air shopping center, and it’s at all times embellished for numerous occasions, together with New 12 months. There are sometimes displays working and plenty of issues to do at any given time. It’s additionally filled with eating places and occasional retailers, so you possibly can take your time looking and luxuriate in a couple of pitstops alongside the way in which.
Handle: Kazımdirik, 372. Sk. No:75, 35100 Bornova/İzmir
6. Eat Road Meals in Alsancak
Making an attempt native road meals is considered one of my favourite issues to do irrespective of the place I’m on the planet, however I discovered some implausible choices in Alsancak. This a part of town is energetic and vibrant irrespective of the time of day, so that you’re certain to search out plenty of completely different meals to fit your style.
Ensure you give the well-known Izmir bombası a strive; Çelebi Unlu Mamuller is the perfect place to go, (there’s at all times an enormous queue outdoors, which says so much!). And a phrase of recommendation: should you order it heat, be affected person – don’t be like me and burn your mouth! It’s filled with chocolate and will certainly provide you with a sugar rush.
You’ll discover doner kebabs, amongst different varieties of kebabs, sweetcorn, Börek, lahmacun, soup, toasties… the record goes on. One of the vital enjoyable issues to do in Izmir is to take the Izmir Metropolis Connoisseur Tour the place you possibly can fill your self up alongside the way in which. Click on right here for particulars.
Handle: 35220 Konak/İzmir
7. Go to Hisar Mosque
Constructed between 1592 and 1598, Hisar Mosque is among the prime locations to go to in Izmir, and it’s proper within the coronary heart of town middle. Again in Ottoman occasions, this was town’s largest mosque, and it nonetheless stands proud right this moment, stunningly lovely in its structure.
Above the primary door, you’ll see the well-known inscription in gold leaf: “Whoever goes in there will probably be secure.” The mosque advanced is massive 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.
When 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 should you’re a girl, and everybody must take off their sneakers, so be sure to’ve received 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 world in and round Izmir is filled with historical past, and a lot of it’s open to discover. Visiting Agora Open Air Museum is among the finest issues to do in Izmir for households as a result of it’s so massive and simple to stroll round. Kids will love testing the ruins and hiding across the columns whereas studying one thing alongside the way in which.
I like previous issues like this, and I significantly loved visiting this big museum. It’s conveniently positioned too, not like 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. Nonetheless, Roman Emperor Aurelius demanded it’s rebuilt and it grew to become one of the crucial essential Roman websites thereafter.
This is among the faster issues to see in Izmir; round 1.5 hours is sufficient time to spare, so you possibly can 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 prime 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 could possibly mix it along 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 undoubtedly a night to recollect. However, even should you don’t need to cease to eat, it’s an excellent concept to only 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 digicam.
Handle: Akdeniz, Pasaport İskelesi, 35210 Konak/İzmir
10. Izmir Historic Elevator Constructing
One of the vital distinctive issues to do in Izmir can even provide you with loads of wonderful views on the identical time. The Historic Elevator Constructing may not sound like a lot, however belief me, it’s among the finest issues to do in Izmir, fingers down.
The constructing itself dates again to 1907, when a Jewish businessman known as Nesim Levi determined to create the elevator to permit folks to maneuver from road to road with extra ease. As of late, the constructing provides probably the most beautiful, sweeping view over the entire of Izmir, and on a transparent day, you possibly can see for miles. It’s considered one of my favourite views by far.
There’s a restaurant on the prime, and it’s an excellent spot to go should you’re in search of a romantic night along with your associate. It’s a good suggestion to order a desk forward of time, nonetheless – after 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 like museums, and this one is filled with actually fascinating artifacts courting again so far as the Bronze Age. When you occur to get a wet day throughout your go to, undoubtedly head to the Izmir Archaeology & Ethnography Museum because it’s one of many prime issues to do in Izmir, come rain or shine. Barely older kids, maybe age 10 and above, will get pleasure from exploring this museum.
For me, probably the most fascinating piece was The Marble Statue of Androklos, which is alleged to have belonged to the founding father of close by Ephesus. There are many statues that have been salvaged from shipwrecks across the space, and I spent a very good two hours exploring this big museum and its items. I felt like I actually discovered one thing too.
As one of many prime vacationer sights in Izmir, it could actually get fairly busy right here, particularly throughout 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 house, accidentally however I’m so glad I did. When you’re visiting on a light day and the solar is shining, this is among the prime issues to do close to Izmir, and so many individuals don’t even understand it exists! Nonetheless, you have to to stroll honest 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 avoid wasting your toes.
İnciraltı Kent Ormanı is positioned in Balçova, the place you’ll discover a small, pebbly seaside right here too, so take your swim gear. The forest itself is lush and inexperienced, with loads of shade throughout the scorching days. There are small huts the place you possibly can 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 chance of fireplace.
For me, this is among the best-hidden gem locations to see in Izmir, the place you possibly can see proper over town, all the way in which again to Alsancak. Take some comfy sneakers for all of the strolling you’ll do, however inhaling that contemporary 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 undoubtedly be in your record of issues to do in Izmir. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founding father of the Turkish Republic, is an important determine in Turkey’s historical past. You’ll discover monuments devoted to him throughout the nation, however this specific museum helps you be taught a lot about his life and significance to Turkish folks.
This museum can be centrally positioned 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 could possibly 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 be essential because it’s the place Ataturk himself stayed whereas in Izmir. Inside you’ll discover gadgets that not solely inform you who Ataturk was, but additionally private gadgets that allow you to be taught extra deeply about him.
Handle: Alsancak Mh.,, Gündüğdu Caddesi No:242, 35220 Konak/İzmir
14. Haggle at Kızlarağası Inn
Procuring is at all times enjoyable, however when it’s important to 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 procuring 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 benefit of this specific spot is that it’s very easy to observe and as soon as inside, you’ll know you’re someplace atmospheric and historic.
That is one other spot I discovered accidentally, and I imagine that simply strolling round this place is among 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
Nomatter what sort of night you’re after, there are such a lot of issues to do in Izmir at evening. When you’re after a chilled-out time, head to the Kordon and easily take a stroll, to benefit from the calm vibe and examine. If you’d like one thing a little bit extra vibrant, head to both Alsancak or Bornova. In these areas, you’ll discover bars, eating places, cafes, cocktail bars, and nightclubs aplenty.
I at all times 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 considered one of my favourite locations to go within the night and their bar snacks are scrumptious too. Cafe Del Mundo is one other prime spot, and it’s at all times a very good evening at Molly Malone’s Irish Pub.
Handle: Alsancak, 35220 Konak/İzmir
Issues To Do in Izmir: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on the perfect issues to do in Izmir, Turkey:
Izmir is understood for being a contemporary metropolis that’s filled with implausible sights. The Konak space is known, due to its waterside location however the metropolis has that laid-back vibe that makes you need to return time and time once more.
Izmir is open all yr round, so there isn’t essentially a proper or unsuitable time to go – it is determined by what you need to do. If you wish to spend time outside and by the seaside, the months between Might and October are preferrred. Nonetheless, 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 undoubtedly make it onto your must-visit record. Izmir is a really picturesque metropolis, however it additionally has plenty of historical past and modern-day enjoyable to dive into.
Three days is sufficient to get a very good overview of town and to see the foremost sights. If you wish to go to sights across the space, resembling close by Kuşadası and Ephesus, then 5 days could be higher.
Izmir is a secure metropolis to go to so long as you utilize the identical frequent sense as you’d in another massive metropolis world wide. Don’t stroll with extra quantities of money, and keep away from flashing valuables, significantly in crowded areas.
One of the vital in style issues to do in Izmir is to stroll alongside the waterside Kordon, which stretches from Alsancak all the way in which 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 several types of conventional meals, together with Manisa kebab, Izmir köfte, and kumru. The Izmir bombası is a candy deal with you HAVE to strive.
Three days is sufficient to see many of the prime spots in Izmir, however if you wish to discover in a extra relaxed means, 5 days could also be a greater choice.
You may make Izmir as low-cost or as costly as you need. In comparison with many different massive European cities, the costs in Izmir are very cheap, however it is determined by the place you keep, eat, and spend your time.
Izmir’s nightlife is especially vibrant, and you’ll find every 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, however it doesn’t have a seaside. Close by Balçova has a small seaside, however there are a number of seaside resorts very near Izmir, together with Çeşme, Alaçatı, and Kuşadası.
It’s not advisable to swim within the metropolis middle, as a result of sheer variety of boats that use the waters, however you possibly can swim within the sea within the close by seaside resorts and additional away from town middle itself.
Each Izmir and Antalya are lovely in their very own proper, and neither is best than the opposite. Nonetheless, if you’d like a extra cosmopolitan expertise, Izmir will serve you higher. However, Antalya has among the most lovely seashores in the entire of Turkey.
In Closing
Now you recognize 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 yr after yr; it’s a type of locations that grabs you, and makes it laborious to remain away.
The primary time I visited Izmir, I used to be stunned at how lovely it’s. I used to be so used to spending time in Istanbul that I didn’t suppose one other metropolis may entice me fairly as a lot, however Izmir managed it. I’m fairly certain will probably be the identical story for you.
