Out of many reasons to visit Izmir, a strong one is an intense insight into Turkey’s third-largest city, that is completely different from its counterparts like bustling Istanbul. Historical attractions, vibrant nightlife and many shopping venues provide an interesting setting but Aegean Izmir sitting on the coastline is also known for its westernised, cosmopolitan atmosphere where youngsters lead the way in trends and fashion.

Turkey has done a great job of transforming ancient cities into modern metropolises like Izmir. With a history dating from 3,000 BC when Trojans arrived, it has combined primaeval structures with contemporary architecture into a beautiful marriage of history and modernity.

Why Visit Izmir, Turkey?

Izmir is Turkey’s third-largest city and one of the oldest settlements in the Mediterranean sea region. With over 8,000 years of ancient history evident in excavations of archaeological sites and monuments (one that was even rebuilt by Alexander the Great), Izmir not only boasts many fascinating cultural heritage sights, but also a lovely coastal climate, outdoors opportunities, and a unique local gastronomy. 

Just A Step Away

It is one of the most accessible city which you can reach by flying from any place in the world. You can take 34 direct flight from around 86 destinations. You can also travel via Istanbul which is only one hour flight away. Izmir happens to be one of the cities with most sophisticated and easy transportation both domestically and internationally mainly because of its geographical location.

The city is only a few hours away from places like Cappadocia, Antalya, Mardin, Gaziantep, and Trabbzon all of which can be accessed through direct flights. It has a beautiful coastal line and beaches. Moreover, you can also commute to Greek Islands via ferries.

Sunny Destination

This destination happens to one of the places with a remarkable combination of shining sun and a unique turquoise coastal line of Aegean Sea. You can enjoy your holidays almost 300 days a year at its unique bays with facilities offering all kinds of water sports. You can enjoy sunbathing and Turkish breakfast at the famous places.

Home of UNESCO World Heritage Site

The city is rich in heritage and culture making as one of the important assets for the next generation. Two of the fifteen historical UNESCO World Heritage site are located in Izmir which is Pergamon and Ephesus.

The Land of Handicrafts

The talented people of Izmir and the rich cultural heritage has helped in developing one of the amazing handicraft which is unique to Izmir. These handicrafts reflect history, modernism, and an amalgamation of different cultures. The most important cherished think in Izmir is evil eye bead which is believed to protects the owner from negative energy. among other handicrafts are weaving, shoemaking, weaving, matting, pottery, felting and many more. You can see examples of these arts in various museums and workshops. 

14 Reasons to visit Izmir

  • Smyrna Agora boasts of many Greek ruins and is a surreal experience because of their location among this urban landscape.
  • Kadifkale castle gives off a 360-degree panoramic view but catch a taxi up the steep hill in the mid-day summer heat.
  • Geldiz Delta bird sanctuary near Karsiyka is home to over 60 species of birds, of which some are endangered.
  • The Asanor, an old building dating from 1907 serves as a notorious landmark, but the bonus, a restaurant at the top serves delicious food and gives off an amazing landscape view.
  • Inciralti Sea Museum in the Balcova district displays two retired vessels from the Turkish navy.
  • Pergamon ruins are more noted for their historical importance and where parchment paper was invented. The excavated and restored theatre is also in marvellous condition.
  • In 1901, Sultan Abdulhamid gave Izmir, a 24-metre-high, designed Clock Tower, that now stands in Konak Square and is an enduring symbol.
  • The Archaeology Museum exhibits an impressive collection of artefacts recovered, including Bergama, Iasos, Bayrakli and Izmir’s Agora. A path leads you to the museum grounds, which are full of Hellenistic period amphorae.
  • Kizlaragasi Han Bazaar dates to Ottoman times and is a town bazaar stocking wonderful carpets, water pipes and jewellery.
  • The Ethnography Museum mansion recreates Ottoman-style salons, workshops, pharmacy and a diverse collection of Turkish folk art and costumes.
  • Konak and Alsancak neighbourhoods offer divergent attractions whether shopping for luxury, sipping a beer in back-alley restaurants or taking in wide-open plazas and watching the world go by.
  • Restaurants on the Kordon serve delicious fish dishes, traditional Turkish Mezes and is the go-to place for locals at weekends.
  • Alsancak Railway Station, Turkey’s second oldest train station offers a unique take on travel over the last century.
  • Izmir Wildlife and Nature Park is home to many species of animals including elephants, giraffes, hippopotamus, ostriches, and a large variety of foreign birds. Many residents are also on the endangered list of world species. One famous resident is a baby Asian elephant who melts everyone’s hearts. And yes, her name is Izmir.!