There are many issues to do in Izmir, a metropolis that’s full of historical past, wonderful meals, incredible surroundings, and vibrant nightlife. There’s extra to Turkey than simply seaside resorts; it’s residence to a variety of incredible cities to discover, and one among 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 regularly go to and spend just a few days or perhaps a month there sometimes. 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.
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 well-liked Izmir sights is close by Ephesus, one among 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 find it irresistible 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, nevertheless, because it’s all fairly straightforward to do. One of the best sightseeing in Izmir is within the Alsancak/Konak space, however there are lots 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 wish to slim down your selections. That’s the place my helpful recommendation is available in helpful!
1. Konak Sq. & Izmir Clock Tower
One of the well-known locations to go to in Izmir is Konak Sq., which can also 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, kids 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 pictures.
I used to be shocked at how well-preserved the tower is, and the design is so intricate. That is positively the most effective 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.
If you happen to’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. Nonetheless, it’s also possible to 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 best way down previous town middle. 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 it’s also possible to rent a motorbike (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 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, reminiscent of Turkish delight, spices, and textiles.
From private expertise, this space is extremely busy, and it’s necessary to maintain maintain of your kids should you’re touring as a household; the bazaar is slim 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 greatest to be secure 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 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 number of locations in Turkey, and most of them blew me away, however Ephesus was a very 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. Relationship again to the tenth century BC, this was one of the necessary and busiest cities of its time, and the ruins nonetheless stand extraordinarily well-preserved at present.
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 in every single place, however I extremely suggest you’re taking your time right here. It’s an enormous area, and it may get very crowded throughout the summer time months. Click on right here for tour data.
If you happen to 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 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
If you happen to get the urge to splash the money a bit of, 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 every thing you’re on the lookout for right here, and doubtless much more in addition to.
That is an open-air shopping center, and it’s all the time adorned for varied occasions, together with New Yr. There are sometimes reveals working and many issues to do at any given time. It’s additionally full of eating places and occasional retailers, so you possibly can take your time searching and luxuriate in just a few pitstops alongside the best way.
Handle: Kazımdirik, 372. Sk. No:75, 35100 Bornova/İzmir
6. Eat Avenue Meals in Alsancak
Making an attempt native avenue meals is one among my favourite issues to do regardless of the place I’m on this planet, however I discovered some incredible choices in Alsancak. This a part of town is full of life and vibrant regardless of the time of day, so that you’re positive to search out a number of completely different meals to fit your style.
Ensure you give the well-known Izmir bombası a attempt; Çelebi Unlu Mamuller is one of the best place to go, (there’s all the time an enormous queue outdoors, which says lots!). And a phrase of recommendation: should 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 varieties of kebabs, sweetcorn, Börek, lahmacun, soup, toasties… the checklist goes on. One 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 best way. 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 middle. Again in Ottoman instances, this was town’s largest mosque, and it nonetheless stands proud at present, stunningly lovely in its structure.
Above the primary door, you’ll see the well-known inscription in gold leaf: “Whoever goes in there shall be secure.” The mosque complicated is massive and intricately adorned. It’s a serene and calm place in the midst of town and an exquisite place to discover, whether or not you’ve been to a mosque earlier than or not.
If you happen to aren’t aware of 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 should you’re a lady, and everybody must take off their footwear, so be sure to’ve bought 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 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 trying out the ruins and hiding across the columns whereas studying one thing alongside the best way.
I really like previous issues like this, and I notably loved visiting this large museum. It’s conveniently positioned too, in contrast to Ephesus which you want 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 turned one of the 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. 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 possibly 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 should you don’t wish to cease to eat, it’s an excellent thought 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 digicam.
Handle: Akdeniz, Pasaport İskelesi, 35210 Konak/İzmir
10. Izmir Historic Elevator Constructing
One of the distinctive issues to do in Izmir may also offer you loads of wonderful views on the similar time. The Historic Elevator Constructing won’t sound like a lot, however belief me, it’s the most effective 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. As of late, the constructing gives probably the most gorgeous, sweeping view over the entire of Izmir, and on a transparent day, you possibly can see for miles. It’s one among my favourite views by far.
There’s a restaurant on the prime, and it’s an excellent spot to go should you’re on the lookout for a romantic night along with your associate. It’s a good suggestion to order a desk forward of time, nevertheless – 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 fascinating artifacts relationship again so far as the Bronze Age. If you happen to 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 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 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 an excellent two hours exploring this large museum and its items. I felt like I actually discovered one thing too.
As one of many prime vacationer sights in Izmir, it may 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 encircling 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, accidentally however I’m so glad I did. If you happen to’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 understand it exists! Nonetheless, you will want 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 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 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 best way 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 checklist 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 also 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. For example, you possibly 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 lots. The constructing itself can also 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 additionally private gadgets that make it easier to be taught extra deeply about him.
Handle: Alsancak Mh.,, Gündüğdu Caddesi No:242, 35220 Konak/İzmir
14. Haggle at Kızlarağası Inn
Procuring is all the time enjoyable, however when you must 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 instances, 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 one of the best 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 accidentally, 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, they usually’re positive 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 night time. If you happen to’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 need one thing a bit of 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 among 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 all the time an excellent night time 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 one of the best issues to do in Izmir, Turkey:
Izmir is thought for being a contemporary metropolis that’s stuffed with incredible sights. The Konak space is legendary, 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 yr round, so there isn’t essentially a proper or mistaken time to go – it relies on what you wish to do. If you wish to spend time open air and by the seaside, the months between Might and October are best. 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 positively make it onto your must-visit checklist. Izmir is a really picturesque metropolis, nevertheless it additionally has a number 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 most important sights. If you wish to go to sights across the space, reminiscent of close by Kuşadası and Ephesus, then 5 days could be higher.
Izmir is a secure metropolis to go to so long as you employ the identical widespread sense as you’d in every other massive metropolis world wide. Don’t stroll with extra quantities of money, and keep away from flashing valuables, notably in crowded areas.
One of the well-liked 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 legendary 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 attempt.
Three days is sufficient to see a lot of the prime spots in Izmir, however if you wish to discover in a extra relaxed approach, 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 massive European cities, the costs in Izmir are very cheap, nevertheless it relies on the place you keep, eat, and spend your time.
Izmir’s nightlife is especially vibrant, and you will discover 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.
The 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 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 would like a extra cosmopolitan expertise, Izmir will serve you higher. However, Antalya has a number of the most lovely seashores in the entire of Turkey.
In Closing
Now you realize 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 suppose one other metropolis might entice me fairly as a lot, however Izmir managed it. I’m fairly positive will probably be the identical story for you.
