If you want to witness the rich and varied history of the Anatolian region in one place, you won't find a city better than Izmir. Izmir is an ancient city with a history spanning 8,000 years, changing hands between empires numerous times and now transformed into a magnificent tableau of history. After Istanbul and Antalya, traveling to Izmir, Turkey offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy holidays in Turkey.
Initial acquaintance with Izmir:
Izmir is the third-largest city in Turkey after Ankara and Istanbul. This city boasts a very favorable commercial and industrial position, making it the host of numerous exhibitions and various industrial, commercial, and scientific congresses every year.
There are reputable universities in this city, with the most notable ones being Ege University and Dokuz Eylül University.
Izmir is a lively and cheerful city. Its beautiful sandy beaches, alongside lush greenery, numerous historical landmarks, and mineral waters, attract a considerable number of tourists interested in the sea and historical sites every year.
Alongside all the beauties of this city, another thing that might be very noteworthy is the warm-hearted people of Izmir. Considering that the main source of income for most Izmir residents is tourism, the respect and hospitality of the people of Izmir towards tourists are palpable.
The entire southern part of Izmir features sandy beaches, pine forests, fishing piers, olive orchards, recreational villages, historical sites, and more, all ready to welcome visitors around the city of Izmir.
Geographical location and climate of Izmir:
Izmir is located in the western part of the Anatolian Peninsula and in the center of the Aegean region. Izmir has a Mediterranean climate, meaning its summers are relatively warm, and its autumns and winters are moderate and rainy.
While Izmir's weather is suitable for travel throughout the year, taking a look at the seasonal differences can help you make more informed decisions about when to visit.
Spring:
In the spring season (from March to May), the weather is very mild and pleasant; however, it can be somewhat unstable in March, gradually becoming sunnier with reduced rainfall.
Summer:
In the summer (between June and mid-September), the weather is warm, dry, and sunny. The maximum temperature can reach 30 degrees Celsius. However, there might be occasional periods of intense heat during which the temperature can rise to 38 to 40 degrees Celsius.
Fall:
Autumn, meaning from mid-September to November, has mild and pleasant weather. In the first half of the season, most days are sunny.
winter:
Winter in Izmir is milder compared to other cities in Turkey. The temperature in winter is around 12 to 14 degrees Celsius. Winters in Izmir rarely experience snowfall.
History of the city:
Izmir is the surviving ancient city formerly known as Smyrna. Smyrna was founded by Greek immigrants.
Smyrna changed hands for about a thousand years between powerful neighboring regimes, initially under Lydia's control, then came under the Greeks, and eventually fell into the hands of the Romans.
The Byzantine Empire focused its capital and attention more on Constantinople, present-day Istanbul.
Izmir was not a significant city for a long time until the Ottoman Turks managed to conquer it in 1415 AD.
After World War I and the fall of the Ottoman Empire, this city regained importance. During this period, a large part of the Armenian-inhabited areas and Greek structures were destroyed.
Finally, in 1922, when Atatürk's forces occupied the city of Smyrna, it became known as Izmir.
The date of this victory is the same day as the victory in the Turkish War of Independence.
Sightseeing places in Izmir, Türkiye and sightseeing areas around Izmir:
However, there are numerous tourist attractions in Izmir; perhaps, during a week-long trip, you won't have the opportunity to visit all of them.
If it's your first time planning a trip to Izmir, there are certain must-see places in the city that you shouldn't miss under any circumstances.
Below, we introduce the most important and popular sights in Izmir.
Izmir Water Park:
Izmir's water park, called "Gumuldur Yali Castle," is located approximately 50 kilometers away from the city center.
This water park is located 35 kilometers from Adnan Menderes Airport in the "Kazim Karabekir" area.
Izmir's water park offers various sections and facilities. Activities and entertainment in this park include a dolphinarium, Blue Hole slide, large jacuzzis, turbulent rivers with tubes, several large pools, boating, and more.
The park provides enjoyable and suitable activities for all ages, allowing children, adults, and the elderly to take advantage of them and have fun.
Lifeguards will be present in each section of the park to ensure your safety.
Moreover, the park operates 24 hours a day, allowing you to use its facilities and enjoy them at any time. However, some sections of the park have specific working hours.
The operating hours for the dolphinarium are from 11 AM to 2:30 PM, and the sections of Aqua Park and Aqualand operate from 9 AM to 6 PM.
Izmir Wildlife Park:
Izmir Wildlife Park in Turkey, also known as Doual Yasham Park, was opened in 2008. This park is the largest wildlife park in Europe and one of the most prestigious projects in the city of Izmir.
Izmir National Park and Natural Park is a member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA). In this park, various animal species, including Asian elephants, lions, tigers, American wildcats, birds of prey, reptiles, wolves, and monkeys, are observable.
In this park, there are no cages, and the animals live freely. You can enjoy the nature and green space, watch the animals, and make purchases from the shops.
The Izmir Zoo in Turkey is located in the "Ahmet Piriştina" area.
Key Museum:
The Car Museum in Izmir is one of the interesting attractions for car enthusiasts. The museum showcases vintage and antique cars from famous brands, along with hundreds of notable accessories and toys. Visiting this museum is like getting on a time machine and traveling back to the past.
In this museum, over 170 models of cars, from Benz motorcycles to super sports cars, are on display. The Car Museum KI is located in the Torbali region.
Museum of Natural History:
The Museum of Natural History at Izmir University is Turkey's first university museum established for research purposes by students. However, it is open to the public, and visitors can explore it on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 13:00 to 16:00.
The Izmir Museum of Natural History consists of various sections such as geology, birds, paleontology, prehistoric fossils of plants and animals, etc. In this museum, you can see animal fossils dating back to 15 million years ago and plant fossils from 350 million years ago.
Hisar Mosque:
One of the famous and historical mosques in Turkey is the Hisar Mosque in Izmir. It is one of the largest and oldest mosques in Turkey and is considered the biggest mosque in Izmir. Constructed in the 16th century, the Hisar Mosque boasts unique and beautiful architecture.
Its architectural style is similar to other mosques from the Ottoman period. The Hisar Mosque is located in the Konak neighborhood of the city, adjacent to the Kemeraltı Bazaar. Access to this mosque is also possible from inside the bazaar.
Konak Square:
Konak Square is considered the main square of the city of Izmir. Perhaps the most notable feature of Konak Square is its clock tower. The Kemeraltı Bazaar and the Yali Mosque are also located in this area.
Clock tower (Saat Kulesi):
The most famous symbol of the city of Izmir is its clock tower. This historical structure was designed by French architects in 1901.
The height of this building is 25 meters. Around the base of the tower, four fountains have been installed, adding to its beauty.
Kameralti market:
The people of Izmir consider Kemeraltı Bazaar as the heart of Izmir.
This market has both a traditional section and a modern section where many brands have branches. However, its traditional section is particularly attention-grabbing for tourists due to the presence of historical artifacts.
In the old and traditional section of the Kapalıçarşı market, you can see and purchase Turkish handicrafts, even antiques and vintage items. Alongside various handicrafts, this market also offers food products. We recommend not forgetting to buy traditional colorful sweets.
Qizlar Agassi Caravanserai:
This caravanserai is located in the grand bazaar of Kapalıçarşı. Various shops in this historical caravanserai are engaged in selling various handicrafts, Turkish souvenirs, and antiques.
Agora Museum:
The Agora Open Air Museum is a part of the historical fabric of Izmir where remnants from the Roman and Greek periods are visible. Its history dates back to the late 4th century BCE.
"Agora" in Greek means market. During the dominance of the Greeks, this area was used as a market.
A portrait painting of Faustina, the wife of the Greek emperor who had a great interest in Izmir, is located on the western gate arch of the Agora Museum. To see the discovered artifacts of the historical Agora city, you should visit the Izmir Archaeology Museum or the Izmir History Museum, as all the Agora artifacts are preserved in these museums.
The Agora Open Air Museum is located in the Konak region.
Izmir Archaeological Museum:
The Archaeology Museum serves as a central hub for reviewing the history of this city from 6,000 years ago to the present. This building is located in the place of the Ayavukla Church, which itself is a remarkable historical structure.
In this museum, rare and valuable artifacts found around the Gulf of Izmir are displayed. The Izmir Archaeology Museum in the Konak region is situated in the Baba Sahne Spring Park.
Alsancak:
The historical area of Alsancak starts from the southern shores of the Gulf of Izmir and begins from Konak Square, extending approximately 3,200 meters along the coastline, reaching the Cordorn area.
Alsancak is popular among young people due to the presence of cafes, restaurants, hotels, and numerous boutiques. In this area, you can take a walk along the beach or enjoy watching and shopping at various stores.
Kordonboyu street:
The Kordon Boyu Street is situated along Alsancak and is one of the most beautiful coastal lines in Izmir. This street is home to numerous beachside cafes and restaurants. In Kordon Boyu, you can also find upscale shops and representatives of famous brands that are favored by many tourists.
In Kordon Boyu, there are traditional carriages that you can rent to tour around the area and enjoy a carriage ride.
elevator:
The "Asansör" is the name of a historical building in the Karataş district of Izmir.
This elevator was built in 1907 to connect the coastal road of Karataş with the Reşatpaşa area, which had a significant elevation difference. Initially, this elevator operated using water pressure, but later, with technological advancements, electricity was employed to move the elevator.
The street leading to the Asansör is named after the famous Turkish artist and musician, "Dario Moreno," who lived in this area.
At the top of the Asansör, there is a restaurant where you can enjoy your meal while relishing the beautiful panoramic view of the city of Izmir.
The ancient city of Ephesus:
The city of Ephesus, or Efes in Turkish, is one of the highly remarkable and famous historical areas near Izmir. If you are interested in the culture, history, and civilization of nations, you will be captivated by this city.
Ephesus is a collection of historical buildings from the Greco-Roman era that were destroyed in wars.
The history of this city dates back to before the birth of Christ and the Hellenistic period. Ephesus is located on the Ionian coast, approximately three kilometers from the Seljuk city, and is 70 kilometers away from Izmir. This city was built by the Greeks and at one time, with a population of over 250,000 people, it was considered the second-largest city in the world.
The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was located in this city. This temple was destroyed in the year 401 AD by John Chrysostom.
Kadifekale Castle:
The history of the Kadifekale Castle, also known as Pagos or Velvet Castle, dates back to the 4th century BCE. This castle stands at a height of 186 meters, and from its top, the entire city and the port of Izmir are clearly visible. In the past, the towers of this castle were used for the permanent defense of the city of Izmir and the Aegean Sea.
This castle is considered one of the ancient structures of the city of Izmir and holds great value for the people of this city.
Bornova shopping center:
This beautiful shopping center was opened in 2006 in the Bornova neighborhood of Izmir.
This beautiful shopping center is designed as an open-air space without a roof. It features several decorative ponds, wooden bridges, stone sculptures, and more, which have added a very beautiful aspect to the shopping center, making it a suitable place for photography.
Forum Bornova consists of two floors. On the lower floor, you can find well-known clothing brands such as LC Waikiki, Koton, Adidas, Zara, and others.
On the upper floor, there is a food court and restaurants such as Rami's Kofteci, McDonald's, Burger King, KFC, and Pidem, each having its branch.
Ataturk Museum:
The current building of the museum was once the residence of Atatürk. This structure was constructed in the Neoclassical style between 1875 and 1880.
In this museum, a significant number of Atatürk's personal belongings, from his books and documents to his clothing, as well as photographs and sculptures, are preserved.
The Atatürk Museum in Izmir is located in the Gundogdu area and the Alsancak neighborhood.
Mount Spil:
This mountain has an elevation of about 1500 meters. In the stories and myths of the Manisa region, this mountain is frequently mentioned. A part of Mount Sipylus is in the shape of a weeping woman, referred to as "Niobe"; Niobe is the daughter of Tantalus in ancient Greek mythology.
In this area, there are accommodations and restaurants catering to nature enthusiasts.
Yasika Island:
This island is located in the Gulf of Izmir. You can travel to Yassıca by boat or ship. Besides exploring Yassıca and swimming on the island's shore, you can also enjoy local foods.
Saint Polycarp Church:
St. Polycarp Church is the oldest Christian place of worship in the city of Izmir. This church was built in the early 17th century AD.
The murals of this church are stunning and enchanting. These paintings were reconstructed in the 19th century by an architect named Raymond Charles Pere.
The murals depict the martyrdom of St. Polycarp.
This church is located on Necati Bey Boulevard in the city of Izmir.
Birgi Kaki Raga mansion:
Another historical attraction in the city of Izmir is the mansion of Birgi Cakiraga. This mansion was built in 1761 by Sharif Ali Agha. The architectural style of the mansion is completely different from other buildings in Izmir, which is why tourists are attracted to it.
Agora shopping center:
This shopping center has two sections, open-air and indoor. In the Agora shopping center, along with various stores and the presence of Turkish and international brands, there are facilities such as cinema halls, a childcare area, and a food court.
Izmir events and festivals:
If you can coordinate your trip with one of the recreational festivals in Izmir, the enjoyment of your journey will be multiplied.
Izmir Jazz Music Festival:
A cultural event that takes place in the second half of Esfand month (March) every year. In this festival, jazz enthusiasts gather in Izmir.
Usually, groups from European countries come to Turkey, and for several days, they have programs in both outdoor and indoor spaces.
It is recommended to purchase tickets early by visiting the festival's website.
International annual festival of Izmir:
This festival has been held annually since 1987, typically from early June to late July (mid-June to mid-July). Throughout this period, numerous performances and musical events take place.
This festival includes street performances, theater, music tours, and more.
Izmir Short Film Festival:
This festival has been held since 1999, showcasing short films during the event.
Makono Route Festival:
This festival coincides with the days of the Nowruz celebration. During this festival, you become acquainted with the traditions and local cuisines of the people of Izmir, and you can participate in its unique performances, concerts, and programs.
Public transportation in Izmir:
The transportation system in Izmir includes: metro, bus, tram, suburban train, ferry, taxi, and airplane.
By having a special tourist card, you can travel to various parts of the city at a lower cost.
Izmir or Istanbul?
After Istanbul, Izmir is the most visited city in Turkey. If you talk to people who have traveled to both cities, you'll find that everyone prefers one over the other based on their taste.
In general, there isn't much difference between these two cities, but Izmir is more interesting historically, while Istanbul has a higher priority in terms of the number of tourist attractions and large shopping centers.
In general, we recommend traveling to both cities. The distance between the two cities is not so great that you cannot visit both in one trip.
