Izmir, Turkey - Travel

Described as a Princess by a celebrated French literary icon, Victor Hugo, Izmir, is the city at the end of the Silk Road, where the "flowers bloom on the top of the mountain" and "the Golden Sun shoots the ray" (İzmir Marşı). Today, it represents one of the favorite tourist destinations in Turkey. The 3rd biggest city in the country with a total population of around 4.5 million people, Izmir is home to remarkable mosques, overflowing bazaars, ancient historic landmarks, and museums. It is regarded as one of the most outstanding cities in world history. Formerly named Smyrna, this ancient Turkish city was influenced by Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and predominantly Ottoman Empires. Usually described as "The Pearl of the Aegean," Izmir is situated west of the Anatolian peninsula, surrounded by the Aegean Sea and UNESCO World Heritage city ruins of Pergamon and Ephesus (Efes).

Often referred to as Turkey’s San Francisco due to its cosmopolitan feel, Izmir is dotted with a myriad of goods, trendy cafes, lively street art, historic landmarks, bustling markets, and picturesque waterfronts. Among the top coastal cities across the Aegean, it remains one of the most leading tourist attractions.

Izmir Tours

Exploring Izmir offers a delightful mix of history and modern life on Turkey's Aegean coast. While emerging with the bustling Kemeraltı Bazaar, you'll experience lively markets and historic Ottoman buildings. Touring the ancient Agora of Smyrna will give you a sense of the city's past. A walk along Kordon Avenue for beautiful views of the Aegean Sea and the historic Asansör for a great city view will treat you well. A little background on Izmir's history and local culture will help you get the most out of your visit.

Best Time To Visit Izmir

This Pearl of the Aegean cherishes a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and sun-soaked summers. The best time to visit Izmir is from May to September, when temperatures range from 25 °C to 33 °C, and the city enjoys up to 14 hours of sunlight daily — perfect for exploring its historical sites and coastal charm. For a cooler experience, in October there are warm days and refreshing evenings, ideal for Izmir cultural events and outdoor activities. While winter brings increased rainfall, spring and early autumn are excellent for enjoying Izmir’s beach weather and local festivals, making it a versatile destination year-round.

History of Izmir

Among the significant trading cities in history, İzmir also played a crucial role in Turkey's independence struggle. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk liberated it from the Greek occupation on September 9, 1922. Initially known as Smyrna, this ancient city's history stretches back over 8,000 years, with origins in Yeşilova, Bornova of the Neolithic period. During the Ottoman period, İzmir's port grew in importance, particularly after the construction of the İzmir-Aydın railway in the 19th century. Despite setbacks during the Greek occupation and a devastating fire in 1922, the Republic of Turkey successfully rebuilt the city.

What to Do in Izmir?

Landmarks and Attractions in Izmir

The Pearl of the Aegean, Izmir, is more than just lively beaches; it pulsates with vibrant energy, blending historical depth with modern allure. The major landmarks and attractions, including historical sites, parks, and busy districts, are spread across key areas like Konak Square, Alsancak, and Karşıyaka. Start your visit at the iconic Izmir Clock Tower in Konak Square, the city's symbol, and then wander through the nearby Kemeraltı Bazaar, where the energetic atmosphere and rich history come together. Browse the ancient ruins of the Agora of Smyrna or climb up to Kadifekale (Velvet Castle) for a breathtaking, sweeping view over the city and the Gulf of Izmir.

The Konak Pier, designed in 1890 by the famous French architect and construction engineer Gustave Eiffel, was initially built as a custom-building. It sits close to historical Konak Square and continues to add significant value to the area. For a unique experience, head to the Asansör (historical elevator) in the Karataş neighborhood, affording charming panoramic coastline views. Alsancak and Kordon are perfect for a stroll along the waterfront and encountering the vibrant local culture.

For relaxation, head to Göztepe Park or İnciraltı Sea Park, both boast serene green spaces by the sea. Finally, take a trip to Karşıyaka Waterfront and Bostanlı, where you can enjoy stunning sunsets and the exciting lifestyle of the city's northern districts.

Izmir Museums

According to one of the famous art critics, "museums are wormholes to other worlds," which works in terms of Izmir because of its long history. From museums dedicated to ancient times to museums representing the very recent history of Turkey, Izmir, it is a great opportunity to further enrich your cultural knowledge.

Although not the most practical, for art history students, the best way to start your journey is from the top of the city downwards. So embarking on a journey from Konak Municipality Radio and Democracy Museum (Konak Belediyesi Radyo ve Demokrasi Müzesi), established in 2013, would be the best idea. Once shortlisted for the European Museum of the Year Award, the Radio and Democracy Museum features radios, record players, and interactive exhibits covering decades. There, you'll witness key historical broadcasts, including Atatürk's Republic Day speech and other significant moments that shaped the nation. In KEY MUSEUM, you'll find a museum with a vast collection of restored vintage cars, motorcycles, and automated artifacts, while in Izmir Journalists Association Press Museum (Izmir Gazeteciler Cemiyeti Basın Müzesi), you get the opportunity to learn about the history of the Turkish press. Karşıyaka Belediyesi Haberleşme Müzesi, the Karşıyaka Municipality Communications Museum, displays historical devices, including magneto, rotary, and push-button telephones, telegraphs, Morse code equipment, telex machines, crypto devices, switchboards, headphones, and various communication artifacts, whereas Ümran Baradan Oyun ve Oyuncak Müzesi, a Game and Toy Museum, exhibits doll houses, real hair dolls, and Lehman Toys, featuring more than thousand works and toys from the 1800s.

Built between 1875 and 1880, the Izmir Atatürk Museum is a free-entry-must-see 19th-century neoclassical home where Atatürk lived while in Izmir. You can see photos, his living space, and clothing, as well as learn about his role in shaping the nation. With a special focus on transportation, Ahmet Piriştina City Archive and Museum (Ahmet Piriştina Kent Arşivi ve Müzesi, APIKAM) offers an engaging look at how the city has evolved. Unveil fascinating exhibits that bring the past to life and demonstrate the journey of the city's transit and more. Izmir Women's Museum (İzmir Kadın Müzesi), the first women's museum in Turkey, celebrates the remarkable, often underrated heritage of Anatolian women, shining a spotlight on their creativity and strength.

Arkas Marine Historical Center (Arkas Deniz Tarihi Merkezi) plunges you deeply into maritime history from 3000 B.C. to today with a blend of legendary ships and stunning marine art, showcasing the impressive array of ship models, paintings, and nautical artifacts. The Izmir Mask Museum (Mask Müzesi) makes one marvel at an incredible collection of ritual masks and engaging workshops and educational programs.

Don’t miss out on two of Izmir’s top museums with just one ticket! For 350 Turkish lira, you can explore the Archaeology Museum (İzmir Arkeoloji Müzesi) and the Ethnography Museum (İzmir Etnografya Müzesi)’s fascinating artifacts, including ancient coins, lamps, and jewelry from the Archaic Period, and the Izmir Painting and Sculpture Museum (İzmir Resim Heykel Müzesi ve Galerisi), featuring stunning works by acclaimed Turkish artists.

Stepping into the newly opened Izmir Culture and Arts Factory (İzmir Kültür Sanat Fabrikası), where a historic 19th-century tobacco factory has been transformed into a vibrant cultural hub, is also a MUST. Exploring its museums, diving into its libraries, and unleashing your creativity in art workshops is what Culture and Arts Factory has for you to propose. It's a fascinating blend of history and modern culture waiting for you to discover.

Izmir Theatres

The theater scene in İzmir has deep roots, tracing back to ancient days as Smyrna, where iconic venues like the Great Theater of Ephesus (Efes Antik Kenti Tiyatro), Pergamon Ancient Theater (Pergamon Antik Tiyatro), and Kadifekale Theater hosted classical stage works during the Greek and Roman eras.

Today, the theater tradition is respectfully preserved within the city's cultural life. Izmir State Theatre Konak Stage (İzmir Devlet Tiyatrosu Konak Sahnesi), located in the famous Konak Square, presents a diverse range of traditional and contemporary plays. Meanwhile, İzmir Atatürk Kültürpark Open Air Theater (Atatürk Açık Hava Tiyatrosu), situated in the heart of the city within Kültürpark, provides the opportunity to attend concerts, theatrical performances, dance shows, and stand-up comedy events. At Izmir City Theatre, you can enjoy plays for children and adults alike, with programming catering to various tastes. Established in 2006, Sahne Tozu Theatre is a small, private venue providing profound theatrical experiences, cutting-edge shows, and modified takes on classical tragedies, promoting the contemporary stage arts. With dedication to artistic excellence, Izmir State Opera and Ballet (İzmir Devlet Opera ve Balesi) inspire and captivate, contributing to the city's dynamic artistic landscape.

Entertainment, Parks, and Shopping in Izmir

Parks of Izmir

With many parks, gardens, and green spaces, Izmir is recognized as one of Turkey's greenest cities. The city is committed to protecting and enhancing its natural environment, making it a welcoming spot for nature lovers.

From exhibitions to theaters, from concerts to film screenings, from festivals to trade shows, you may attend every possible event in Kültürpark. The enormous urban park built on 420,000 m2 is the largest in Izmir, with free entry to the museums within the park. In this park of lovely stray cats, you can come across enormous stone sculptures with bags and luggage hanging on them, an Egyptian obelisk, a tower, statues, fountains, art galleries, green gardens, and, of course, benches. Although the park is extensively green, it's not shady green, so it's not crowded in the afternoons.

Thanks to the central location and nearby shopping options, Güzelyalı Parkı is a family-friendly destination where children can enjoy themselves. Surrounded by cafes and tea houses, the park’s palm trees and fountains occasionally splash water onto the benches, providing a refreshing summer experience.

Awarded for excellence in landscape and environmental services, Izmir Natural Life Park, also known as Izmir Doğal Yaşam Parkı, is Turkey's premier wildlife Park. Spread across 425,000 m2 in Çiğli Sasalı, this unique sanctuary houses over 2,700 animals from 134 species in habitats that resemble their natural environments. The park is about a truly immersive experience. Whether captivated by lions basking in the sun or enchanted by playful monkeys, every visit brings you closer to the wild. Perfect for families and nature lovers alike, Izmir Natural Life Park is a must-see destination.

Shopping in Izmir

The Pearl of the Aegean, Izmir, became an important silk trading city in the 16th century. As an international commercial center and a busy port, the city started to facilitate silk exports to Europe. Establishing itself as one of the leading commercial centers of the region centuries ago, Izmir still maintains its status as a city of commerce with exhilarating shopping malls, cozy markets, and the organized chaos of bazaars.

Izmir Optimum AVM enjoys the status of the largest shopping mall in both Izmir and the entire Aegean Region, showcasing an unparalleled variety of goods. This modern and aesthetically designed complex with easy access features cutting-edge infrastructure. Here, you can stroll through the extensive selection of stores, including top national and international fashion brands. The mall also hosts artistic events, and its cafes and restaurants, complete with open terraces, provide the perfect spots to relax and enjoy the dynamic atmosphere.

Designed in 1890 by the renowned French architect Gustave Eiffel, Konak Pier used to be a customs building in its heyday. Located on the waterfront of Izmir, this iconic structure now serves as a modern shopping and entertainment complex. Konak Pier is an essential destination to explore, featuring a variety of high-end retail stores, restaurants, cafes, and cinemas, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Aegean Sea.

The first open-air shopping center in Izmir, Forum Bornova, displays 128 shops with a wide range of national and international brands, restaurants, and cafes. Akin to an Aegean village, with boulevards, wooden pergolas, and terraces, the mall has been praised for transforming the city's lifestyle. Izmir Agora Mall, a contemporary, two-story shopping destination with a blend of renowned retail brands, a diverse food court, and family-friendly amenities, boasts 178 stores. Established in 2003, the mall’s name draws inspiration from the ancient term "Agora," meaning marketplace.

Westpark Shopping Center will grant you an energetic urban shopping experience with an array of amenities, including a diverse food court, a modern cinema, and an impressive aquarium. Families will appreciate the baby room and dedicated kids' play area, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination for all ages. MaviBahçe is a pure hustle and bustle of a shopping hub featuring a mix of local brands, various dining options, and an IMAX cinema. The upbeat environment and selection of casual restaurants make it a favorite destination for shopping and leisure.

An important aspect of shopping in Turkey is bargaining, a central part of the beautifully chaotic bazaars. The largest one in Izmir, Kemeraltı Bazaar, will introduce you to the world of countless goods. Here, you'll come across shops selling counterfeit articles and brands like Abibas, Nikee, Adidos, etc., where you must bargain for good deals. With over 1,000 shops, Kemeraltı Bazaar comes alive at all hours, providing dynamic shopping encounters with modern business centers, diverse retail stores, cinemas, and cafes. The bazaar serves as a thriving heart where you can enjoy a wide variety of shopping and entertainment options. Furthermore, you can find traditional Turkish handicrafts such as ceramics, porcelain wall panels, wooden products, tombacs, carpets, and kilims, as well as leather items in this bazaar, composed of open and covered areas. Izmir Food Bazaar exposes visitors to sustainably sourced and organic products, while New Jewelry Bazaar presents the highest quality jewelry shops.

Food in Izmir

To truly understand Izmir, you must taste the cuisine of the Pearl of the Aegean, as it will tell you a lot about its history, current lifestyle, and sociocultural landscape. Fifteen restaurants in İzmir are recommended in the MICHELIN Guide, with two of which were awarded MICHELIN stars. The delectable buttery odor of baking boyoz will irresistibly captivate your senses, while Izmir provides additional savory delights. Izmir is a city that harmonizes local tastes with world cuisines, rooted in Aegean culture and enriched by Ottoman, Greek, Jewish, Italian, and French influences.

Turkish Cuisine

From luxurious gourmet restaurants to budget-friendly street food, each meal in Izmir will narrate a peculiar story about the city, bringing you to a gastronomical ecstasy. Essentially tied to the Çeşme district, Kumru is one of the most uniquely Turkish meals here. Made with sesame-like bread loaded with grilled sausage, salami, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, ketchup, and mayonnaise, this is an exclusively Turkish sandwich, a flavorful and delightful dish. Some other endemic specialties are Boyoz, recommended with boiled eggs and tea; Söğüş, made with onion, parsley, sumac, and offal; Izmir Bombası (İzmir Bomb), chocolate and dough; Şambali, a street delicacy produced with semolina, milk, and sugar; İzmir Meatball with tomato sauce served with potato slices; midye, mussels steamed, stuffed with a spiced rice mixture, and briefly cooked again; Kopanisti Cheese, typically served peppery and spicy.

Though not originally from Izmir, Kokoreç in this city has its own style of preparation. Cooked directly over the embers, Izmir's version of Kokoreç stands out for being free of tomatoes and featuring a distinct flavor profile. Be sure to add this local twist to your must-try list when exploring Izmir.

In Izmir, locals generously share lokma on certain occasions, whether celebrating or in times of mourning. If you spot a long queue for lokma, relish this delightful dessert. Embrace the opportunity to taste these syrup-soaked, crispy treats, which are rooted in Ottoman culinary tradition, as it is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. Enjoy the taste of generosity and history with every bite.

Vegetarian Restaurants

In İzmir, healthy eating isn’t just a trend, but a way of life. The city overflows with diverse culinary options that cater to vegetarians and vegans alike. From the freshest herbs and tempting appetizers to hearty vegetable dishes, all elevated by the region's famous olive oil, İzmir’s cuisine is a haven for plant-based diets. Veggie-friendly cafes and restaurants are easily found throughout the city, particularly in hectic districts like Alsancak, Karşıyaka, and Bostanlı, where a variety of choices await at every turn.

Enjoy the crispy goodness of spinach and feta gözleme at Gözlemecim, or enjoy a vegan twist on traditional Turkish fare at Yaşam Vegan Kafe, located in the heart of the bustling market area. For those seeking a more casual atmosphere, Cute Gastropub on Bornova Street serves up vegan-friendly fast food and desserts, along with a selection of alcoholic beverages. Additionally, Etyok provides a fully vegan fast-food experience with Mediterranean and Turkish-inspired kebabs and sandwiches, perfect for a quick meal on the go.

Coffee Houses, Bakeries, and Patisseries

Izmir’s coffee culture thrives in its many traditional cafes, where the focus is more on local delights like boyoz, a flaky pastry unique to the city, and kumru, a sesame-crusted sandwich filled with cheese, tomatoes, and sausage. While baklava and börek are available, Izmir is particularly celebrated for these regional pastries that reflect distinctive culinary heritage. These cafes and bakeries are popular gathering spots where people come together to enjoy the flavors that have become synonymous with the city's rich history and vibrant social life.

City Transport in Izmir

Public Transport

In İzmir, getting around the city is delightful, with a comprehensive and integrated public transportation network that ensures effortless travel across its animated neighborhoods. From the well-connected İzban suburban train system to the ferry services that offer scenic views of the Aegean coast, İzmir's transit options make exploring the city both efficient and pleasant.

To navigate İzmir, you'll need an İzmirim Kard, a versatile and rechargeable electronic card that provides access to various transportation modes, including buses, ferries, the metro, and trams. The card can be purchased at Konak and Karşıyaka Ferry Terminals, major subway stations like Konak, Fahrettin Altay, and Halkapınar, and at the airport station, among other locations. You can also top up your card at these points or use the convenient charging machines available at all stations and ferry terminals. Additionally, the card can be used for services like parking garages, the Izmir Natural Life Park, and even rent-a-bicycle options.

For foreigners, the Bilet 35 ticket may work as a temporary solution but does not provide the same interchange rights or discounts as the İzmirim Kard. Whether commuting daily or just visiting, İzmir's public transportation system will make your voyage as smooth as possible.

Buses and Shuttles

In İzmir, buses and shuttles are crucial to the city's transportation network, providing convenient access to various districts with an average waiting time of 10-15 minutes. The İzmirim Kard allows seamless transfer across many routes, with fares starting at around 7.50 Turkish lira (approximately 0.25 USD), while services like airport shuttles and the nighttime Owl Tariff have distinct pricing. Though interchange options aren't available for buses to remote districts, a "pay as you go" system ensures fair pricing based on distance traveled.

Metro

The metro is the heartbeat of the city. It pulses, carries, and connects people in the rhythm of urban life. Thus, Izmir Metro depicts the stance of the city. Opened in 2000, the Izmir Metro is a modern and efficient rail system that spans 43 kilometers around the scenic Izmir Bay, offering a convenient way to explore the city. With the first 11.5-kilometer phase completed in under four years, it stands as a model of engineering excellence and international collaboration. Managed by the Izmir Transportation Company, the metro has safely transported over 150 million passengers since its inception. A single ride costing around 10 Turkish lira (approximately 0.30USD) provides an affordable and reliable means of getting around for locals and tourists.

Taxis

Taxi Izmir displays the social logic of the city, where quality meets affordability. Though flagging a taxi on the street can sometimes be challenging, especially for newcomers, a range of convenient options is available. Local apps like BiTaksi and international services such as Uber facilitate easy ride-hailing. From Izmir airport to the city of Izmir, the price is around 4 Euros. Izmir's efficient taxi system provides a smooth and reliable service for residents and visitors, making travel around the city more convenient.

Car Rental

In Izmir, car rental is available at highly competitive prices, starting from just 19 USD and going up to 50 USD per day. Car rental services can be found in key locations such as the airport, popular hotels, and lively downtown areas, making it easy to pick up a vehicle as soon as you arrive. While the minimum age to rent a car in Izmir is generally 21, some agencies may have a higher age requirement of 25. If your driver's license isn't in English or written in the Latin alphabet, make sure to bring an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Other Modes of Transport

Like many modern cities, Izmir prides itself on diverse and unique transportation modes that add to the city's charm and accessibility. Among these, ferries stand out as a quintessential experience, providing not just a mode of transport but a must-do attraction in their own right. Sailing across the Gulf of Izmir, these ferries connect key neighborhoods such as Konak, Karşıyaka, Bostanlı, and Alsancak. Stunning views and a refreshing break from road traffic are guaranteed. The ferry ride is a serene and scenic way to traverse the city, giving vacationers a unique perspective of Izmir's coastline and urban landscape. Besides ferries, they can choose other convenient and scenic options like trams, shared taxis (dolmuş), bicycles, e-scooters, funiculars, and even nostalgic horse-drawn carriages.

How to Get to Izmir?

The most conventional way of reaching Izmir is by flying into Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), the city's primary airport located approximately 18 kilometers south of the city center. Handling numerous domestic and international flights, ADB makes it the swiftest option for travelers. For those coming from the nearby Greek Islands, however, a ferry ride would be the best choice and a unique opportunity to experience the scenic beauty of the Aegean Sea. Taking a bus or driving is an equally enriching journey, with routes winding through picturesque Turkish landscapes, quaint villages, and rolling hills. Each transportation mode to Izmir provides a distinct experience, but flying remains the top pick for convenience, while ferries and road trips reward memorable adventures.

Languages Spoken in Izmir

Turkish is the primary language spoken by nearly the entire population. Yet the city's history and diverse influences uniquely shape the linguistic landscape. A distinctive Western Turkish dialect is prevalent here, reflecting the city's proximity to Greece and its historical Greek presence. This dialect carries Greek influences, and you can still hear Greek being spoken in some areas with historic Greek ties. Additionally, due to the steady flow of international arrivals, English is widely spoken in tourist hotspots, markets, restaurants, and hotels, making communication relatively easy for visitors.

Currency in Izmir

Izmir's official currency is the Turkish lira (TRY), available in multiple denominations, both in coins and banknotes. Exchanging currency in the city is straightforward, with numerous banks, ATMs, and specialized exchange offices readily available. Travelers can easily exchange major foreign currencies like U.S. dollars, Euros, and British pounds. In tourist areas, some businesses may accept foreign currencies directly, but paying in Turkish lira usually offers better value.

Security in Izmir

Izmir is considered a safe and inviting city known for its warm hospitality and laid-back coastal ambiance. The local authorities work diligently to maintain public safety, making it a generally secure place for residents and newcomers. As with any major city, it’s advised to stay vigilant, particularly in busy spots, like markets and public transportation hubs, and opt for licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing services. While tap water in Izmir is treated and safe, many Izmir visitors still choose bottled water for added peace of mind. Overall, Izmir provides a relaxed and pleasant environment where adventurers can scrutinize its vibrant neighborhoods, historical sites, and scenic coastline with confidence.