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 residence to a variety of improbable cities to discover, and one in all my favorites is Izmir. Because the third largest metropolis within the nation, Izmir has a laid-back, student-like vibe, nevertheless 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 number 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 crucial common Izmir points of interest is close by Ephesus, one in all my favourite locations in the entire world. By the tip 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 want to make use of public transport, taxis, or drive to get round. Don’t be nervous about that, nevertheless, because it’s all fairly simple to do. One of the best sightseeing in Izmir is within the Alsancak/Konak space, however there are a lot of different areas value 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 slim down your decisions. That’s the place my helpful 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 Sq., which can be residence to the well-known Izmir Clock Tower, in-built 1901. The sq. itself is a vibrant spot the place individuals meet to speak, youngsters 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 positively among the best 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.
For those who’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 may as well 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 points of interest 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 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 may as well rent a motorcycle (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 heart is Kemeraltı Çarşısı – an enormous open market the place you should buy just about the whole lot you possibly can consider. That is additionally an incredible spot for conventional souvenirs, similar to Turkish delight, spices, and textiles.
From private expertise, this space is extremely busy, and it’s necessary to maintain maintain of your youngsters if you happen to’re touring as a household; the bazaar is slim and winding, and it’s very simple 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 greatest to be secure quite 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 have to haggle, so begin training now, and also you’ll seize one of the best bargains to take again residence with you.
Handle: 35360 Konak/İzmir
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 completely different beast. This place is so superb and stunningly lovely, and it’s one of many prime locations to go to close to Izmir. Relationship again to the tenth century BC, this was one of the vital necessary 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 can assist you perceive what you’re seeing. If not, there are indicators with data in all places, however I extremely advocate you’re taking your time right here. It’s an enormous area, and it may well get very crowded in the course of the summer season months. Click on right here for tour data.
For those who 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 season months fairly uncomfortable. That is such an exquisite place, you don’t need the climate to spoil it.
Handle: Acarlar, Efes Harabeleri, 35920 Selçuk/İzmir
5. Store at Discussion board Bornova
For those who get the urge to splash the money somewhat, a go to to Discussion board Bornova is likely one of the greatest issues to do in Izmir. Filled with home and worldwide shops, you’ll discover the whole lot you’re in search of right here, and doubtless much more moreover.
That is an open-air shopping center, and it’s at all times adorned for numerous occasions, together with New Yr. There are sometimes reveals working and plenty of issues to do at any given time. It’s additionally filled with eating places and low outlets, so you possibly can take your time searching and luxuriate in a number 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 one in all my favourite issues to do irrespective of the place I’m on the earth, however I discovered some improbable choices in Alsancak. This a part of town is energetic and vibrant irrespective of the time of day, so that you’re positive to search out a lot of completely different meals to fit your style.
Be sure you give the well-known Izmir bombası a strive; Çelebi Unlu Mamuller is one of the best place to go, (there’s at all times an enormous queue outdoors, which says loads!). And a phrase of recommendation: if you happen to order it heat, be affected person – don’t be like me and burn your mouth! It’s filled with chocolate and will certainly offer you a sugar rush.
You’ll discover doner kebabs, amongst different forms 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 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 prime 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 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 adorned. It’s a serene and calm place in the course of town and an exquisite place to discover, whether or not you’ve been to a mosque earlier than or not.
For those who aren’t aware of 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 if you happen to’re a girl, and everybody must take off their footwear, so be sure to’ve received 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 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 likely one of the greatest 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 outdated issues like this, and I notably loved visiting this large museum. It’s conveniently situated too, not like Ephesus which you must 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 grew to become one of the vital necessary 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. Test 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 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 if you happen to don’t need to cease to eat, it’s an incredible thought to only sit and watch the superb present from Mom Nature. When it comes to 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
One of the crucial distinctive issues to do in Izmir will even offer you 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, fingers 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 road to road with extra ease. Nowadays, the constructing presents probably the most beautiful, sweeping view over the entire of Izmir, and on a transparent day, you possibly can see for miles. It’s one in all my favourite views by far.
There’s a restaurant on the prime, and it’s an incredible spot to go if you happen to’re in search of a romantic night together with your companion. It’s a good suggestion to order a desk forward of time, nevertheless – 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 attention-grabbing artifacts relationship again so far as the Bronze Age. For those who occur to get a wet day throughout your go to, positively 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 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 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 an excellent two hours exploring this large museum and its items. I felt like I actually realized one thing too.
As one of many prime vacationer points of interest in Izmir, it may well 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. Get pleasure from Nature at İnciraltı Kent Ormanı
I stumbled upon İnciraltı Kent Ormanı, an exquisite pure area, by chance however I’m so glad I did. For those who’re visiting on a gentle day and the solar is shining, this is likely one of the prime issues to do close to Izmir, and so many individuals don’t even comprehend it exists! Nevertheless, you’ll need 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 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 in the course of the sizzling 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 principles to keep away from the danger 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 town, all the way in which again to Alsancak. Take some snug 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 crucial 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 individuals.
This museum can be centrally situated in Konak, so it’s simple to mix a visit right here with a number of spots for one full day in Izmir. For example, 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 realized loads. The constructing itself can be necessary because it’s the place Ataturk himself stayed whereas in Izmir. Inside you’ll discover gadgets that not solely let you know who Ataturk was, but in addition private gadgets that aid you be taught 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 in 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 cut price with one of the best of them. The benefit 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 consider that simply strolling round this place is likely one of the greatest issues to do in Izmir. You discover so many issues that appear hidden away, and so they’re positive to reinforce 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 night time. For those who’re after a chilled-out time, head to the Kordon and easily take a stroll, to benefit from the calm vibe and look at. If you would like 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 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 one in all 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 an excellent night time 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 one of the best issues to do in Izmir, Turkey:
Izmir is thought for being a contemporary metropolis that’s filled with improbable points of interest. 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 yr round, so there isn’t essentially a proper or flawed time to go – it will depend on what you need to do. If you wish to spend time outdoor and by the seaside, the months between Might and October are excellent. 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, nevertheless it additionally has a lot of historical past and modern-day enjoyable to dive into.
Three days is sufficient to get an excellent overview of town and to see the key sights. If you wish to go to sights across the space, similar to 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’ll in every other massive metropolis all over the world. Don’t stroll with extra quantities of money, and keep away from flashing valuables, notably in crowded areas.
One of the crucial common 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 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.
Three days is sufficient to see many of the prime spots in Izmir, however if you wish to discover in a extra relaxed method, 5 days could also be a greater possibility.
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, nevertheless it will depend on the place you keep, eat, and spend your time.
Izmir’s nightlife is especially vibrant, and you could find the whole lot 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, nevertheless 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 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 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 among the most lovely seashores in the entire of Turkey.
In Closing
Now all one of the best 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 kind 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 assume one other metropolis may entice me fairly as a lot, however Izmir managed it. I’m fairly positive it will likely be the identical story for you.
