There are many issues to do in Izmir, a metropolis that’s filled with historical past, superb meals, improbable surroundings, and vibrant nightlife. There’s extra to Turkey than simply seaside resorts; it’s house to a spread of improbable cities to discover, and certainly one 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 a couple of days or perhaps a month there often. It’s a spot that’s so endearing, I by no means need to go away, 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. Some of the widespread Izmir sights is close by Ephesus, certainly 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 concept 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 wish to make use of public transport, taxis, or drive to get round. Don’t be fearful 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 various different areas value exploring.
There are some nice day journeys simply exterior the town and with so many high 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
Some of the well-known locations to go to in Izmir is Konak Sq., which can also be house to the well-known Izmir Clock Tower, inbuilt 1901. The sq. itself is a vibrant spot the place individuals meet to talk, youngsters play, and avenue musicians carry out. It’s a busy a part of the town, and the clock tower is at all times 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 among the best 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.
Should 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. Nevertheless, 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 high sights in Izmir is the Kordon – a 1.5km lengthy waterside promenade that originates from the 1850s, operating from Alsancak all the way in which down previous the town heart. This is likely 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 too can rent a motorcycle (there are cycle lanes), attempt avenue 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 high issues to see in Izmir metropolis heart is Kemeraltı Çarşısı – an enormous open market the place you should buy just about all the things you possibly can consider. That is additionally an important 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 for those who’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 protected fairly than sorry, by taking precautions.
Out of all of the issues to do in Izmir, this is likely one of the most genuine. You’ll must haggle, so begin working towards now, and also you’ll seize the most effective bargains to take again house with you.
Handle: 35360 Konak/İzmir
4. A Day Journey to Ephesus
I’ve been to quite a lot of locations in Turkey, and most of them blew me away, however Ephesus was a very totally different beast. This place is so superb and stunningly lovely, and it’s one of many high 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 usually have a information with you that can assist you perceive what you’re seeing. If not, there are indicators with info in all places, however I extremely advocate you’re taking your time right here. It’s an enormous house, and it could possibly get very crowded throughout the summer season months. Click on right here for tour info.
Should 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 season 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
Should you get the urge to splash the money a little bit, a go to to Discussion board Bornova is likely one of the finest issues to do in Izmir. Full of home and worldwide shops, you’ll discover all the things you’re searching for right here, and possibly much more in addition to.
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 operating and many issues to do at any given time. It’s additionally filled with eating places and low retailers, so you possibly can take your time searching and revel 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 avenue meals is certainly one of my favourite issues to do regardless of the place I’m on the earth, however I discovered some improbable choices in Alsancak. This a part of the town is full of life and vibrant regardless of the time of day, so that you’re certain to seek out numerous totally different meals to fit your style.
Be sure to give the well-known Izmir bombası a attempt; Çelebi Unlu Mamuller is the most effective place to go, (there’s at all times an enormous queue exterior, which says quite a bit!). And a phrase of recommendation: for those who 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. Some of the 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 likely one of the high locations to go to in Izmir, and it’s proper within the coronary heart of the town heart. Again in Ottoman occasions, this was the 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 can be protected.” The mosque advanced is massive and intricately embellished. It’s a serene and calm place in the course of the town and a beautiful place to discover, whether or not you’ve been to a mosque earlier than or not.
Should you aren’t acquainted with mosque etiquette, you’ll must put on respectable garments, (no shorts or vest tops). You’ll must cowl your head with a shawl or pashmina for those who’re a lady, and everybody must take off their sneakers, so be sure to’ve bought some socks with you. As soon as inside, spend a while in quiet contemplation and admire the attractive structure.
Handle: Konak, 904. Sk. No:52, 35250 Konak/İzmir
8. Agora Open Air Museum
The realm in and round Izmir is filled with historical past, and a lot of it’s open to discover. Visiting Agora Open Air Museum is likely one of the finest issues to do in Izmir for households as a result of it’s so massive and straightforward to stroll round. Kids will love trying out the ruins and hiding across the columns whereas studying one thing alongside the way in which.
I like previous issues like this, and I notably loved visiting this enormous museum. It’s conveniently situated too, in contrast to Ephesus which it’s essential 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 or not it’s rebuilt and it turned one of the crucial essential Roman websites thereafter.
This is likely one of 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 replenish your day.
Handle: Yeni, Tarik Sari Sokağı No:16, 35240 Konak/İzmir
9. Verify 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 can mix it along with your night meal, however the view is actually 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 for those who don’t need to cease to eat, it’s an important concept to only sit and watch the superb present from Mom Nature. By way of what to see in Izmir, I’d extremely advocate 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
Some of the distinctive issues to do in Izmir may even provide you with loads of superb views on the identical time. The Historic Elevator Constructing won’t sound like a lot, however belief me, it’s among the best issues to do in Izmir, palms down.
The constructing itself dates again to 1907, when a Jewish businessman known as Nesim Levi determined to create the elevator to permit individuals to maneuver from avenue to avenue with extra ease. Nowadays, the constructing presents essentially the most gorgeous, sweeping view over the entire of Izmir, and on a transparent day, you possibly can see for miles. It’s certainly one of my favourite views by far.
There’s a restaurant on the high, and it’s an important spot to go for those who’re searching for a romantic night along with your companion. 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 relationship again so far as the Bronze Age. Should 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 take pleasure in exploring this museum.
For me, essentially 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 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 sights in Izmir, it could possibly 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. Get pleasure from Nature at İnciraltı Kent Ormanı
I stumbled upon İnciraltı Kent Ormanı, a beautiful pure house, accidentally however I’m so glad I did. Should you’re visiting on a gentle day and the solar is shining, this is likely one of the high issues to do close to Izmir, and so many individuals don’t even comprehend it exists! Nevertheless, you have to to stroll truthful distance or get a taxi to seek out it – it’s on the very finish of the Kordon, so I like to recommend a taxi to save lots of your ft.
İnciraltı Kent Ormanı is situated 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 make the most of, though do learn the indicators and abide by the foundations to keep away from the chance of fireside.
For me, this is likely one of the best-hidden gem locations to see in Izmir, the place you possibly can see proper over the town, all the way in which again to Alsancak. Take some comfy sneakers 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 an important determine in Turkey’s historical past. You’ll discover monuments devoted to him throughout the nation, however this explicit museum helps you study a lot about his life and significance to Turkish individuals.
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. For example, you can 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 quite a bit. 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 let you know who Ataturk was, but in addition private objects that make it easier to study extra deeply about him.
Handle: Alsancak Mh.,, Gündüğdu Caddesi No:242, 35220 Konak/İzmir
14. Haggle at Kızlarağası Inn
Buying 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 purchasing alternatives.
Now, I’m not a haggling pure; it took me a while to construct my confidence, however now I can cut price with the most effective of them. The benefit of this explicit 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 likely one of the finest issues to do in Izmir. You discover so many issues that appear hidden away, they usually’re certain to boost your go to.
Handle: Tarihi Kızlarağası Hanı Han Yönetimi 871 Sokak No:19/106 Hisarönü, 35250 Konak/İzmir
15. Get pleasure from 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. Should you’re after a chilled-out time, head to the Kordon and easily take a stroll, to benefit from the calm vibe and think about. 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 certainly one 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 at all times evening at Molly Malone’s Irish Pub.
Handle: Alsancak, 35220 Konak/İzmir
Issues To Do in Izmir: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on the most effective issues to do in Izmir, Turkey:
Izmir is thought for being a contemporary metropolis that’s filled with improbable sights. The Konak space is known, because of 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 12 months round, so there isn’t essentially a proper or fallacious time to go – it relies on what you need to do. If you wish to spend time open air and by the seaside, the months between Could and October are perfect. Nevertheless, for simpler sightseeing, I’d advocate 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 numerous historical past and modern-day enjoyable to dive into.
Three days is sufficient to get overview of the town and to see the main 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 protected metropolis to go to so long as you employ the identical widespread sense as you’ll in some other massive metropolis world wide. Don’t stroll with extra quantities of money, and keep away from flashing valuables, notably in crowded areas.
Some of the widespread issues to do in Izmir is to stroll alongside the waterside Kordon, which stretches from Alsancak all the way in which down the 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 attempt.
Three days is sufficient to see a lot 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 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 affordable, but it surely relies on the place you keep, eat, and spend your time.
Izmir’s nightlife is especially vibrant, and you could find all the things 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 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 heart, 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 the town heart itself.
Each Izmir and Antalya are lovely in their very own proper, and neither is healthier than the opposite. Nevertheless, if you need a extra cosmopolitan expertise, Izmir will serve you higher. Alternatively, Antalya has a few of the most lovely seashores in the entire of Turkey.
In Closing
Now you recognize all the most effective 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 shocked at how lovely 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.
