Located on the shores of the Aegean Sea, Izmir is Turkey’s third-largest city. Its Mediterranean climate makes Izmir a popular holiday destination for history, water sports enthusiasts and foodies.

Catch of the day

Izmir is an ideal place for those not seeking sandy beaches and resort facilities. Izmir is a quiet town, not too crowded even in the first week of August, when its historical sites, namely Ephesus and Pergamon, are filled with tourists. Visiting Izmir without some fresh fish isn’t complete, most restaurants offer the catch of the day grilled to perfection.

Greek-style

In antiquity, Alexander the Great began the construction of Izmir which was later finished by the Romans. As such the Roman and Greek Agora is worth a visit either early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid heat waves and the crowd. Statues of various Greek gods are displayed at the museum’s site. The Agora ruins are located in Konak, near the Kemeralti shopping area in the city. One wouldn’t expect to spot the agora of an ancient city next to a huge car park, but it is possible in Izmir! Alexander the Great’s fountain is still running after 2000 years and there are remains of a Muslim cemetery at the archeological area.

Asansor and the Clock Tower

If you wish to view the city of Izmir at an altitude of 50m while enjoying a coffee on top, take the Asansor lift. The historical lift of the city is located in the district of Konak and was built in 1907. The clock tower is situated in Konak’s spacious square and is a central element of the city since 1901.

Roman ruins

Ephesus is a fabulous place in Izmir, with the largest collection of Roman ruins in the eastern Mediterranean region. Take a day trip to one of the seven wonders of the world named Temple of Artemis at Ephesus which is less than one hour driving from the airport.

In the olive grove

Excursions to Ephesus, often include visiting Sirince village, about 8 kilometers away in the hills smothered with olive groves and vineyards. A number of 19th-century houses have turned into boutique hotels. Locals make wine, olive oil and grow tasty peaches.

West Coast

It is best to visit Izmir in the spring or fall to avoid hot temperatures. However, if you are visiting in the summer, you can travel the West coast to Cesme and Foca where one can enjoy the beautiful seaside, practice windsurfing and scuba diving.

For centuries Izmir was the starting point of some trade routes, which turned it into a valuable city of the old times. Izmir has lots of streets where you can wander, it offers good vibes, beautiful encounters and nice weather, especially in the spring.