![\"Ancient](\"https:\/\/blog.turkishairlines.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/izmirin-tarihi-1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAn introduction to \u0130zmir would be incomplete without a summary of its history. It is believed that the first settlements in \u0130zmir date from the Neolithic Age. Eventually, Smyrna, as \u0130zmir was once known, became a center for maritime trade and a strategic port city for the Lydians, the Persians and, subsequently, the Hellenistic, Eastern Roman and Ottoman empires. The city\u2019s deep-rooted past deserves to be explored step by step. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n We get excited about \u0130zmir because there\u2019s so much to do and see. Since we only have three days, we\u2019re providing the highlights: historical sites, urban life, natural beauties and, of course, the Kordon \u2013 the city\u2019s seafront promenade. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n It is said that the best way to get to know a place is to wander around it, by foot if possible. On the first day of our \u0130zmir trip, we\u2019ll visit the bazaars, take the ferry, and just soak in the city\u2019s atmosphere. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n The first place to see in \u0130zmir is one of its iconic streets. In the Alsancak neighborhood, lively K\u0131br\u0131s \u015eehitleri (Cyprus Martyrs\u2019 Street) is a dynamic pedestrian mall that begins at the renowned Sevin\u00e7 Patisserie and ends at the \u0130zmir Port. Similar to \u0130stanbul\u2019s famous \u0130stiklal Street, K\u0131br\u0131s \u015eehitleri features numerous shops and cafes; do try the popular \u0130zmir Bombas\u0131, a dessert originating in \u0130zmir.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n The much photographed \u0130zmir Clock Tower is an enduring symbol of the city, overlooking the Aegean Sea from the center of Konak Square. It is an ideal place to relax after the hustle and bustle of K\u0131br\u0131s \u015eehitleri before heading towards the coast\u2026.to a very interesting structure.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Yes, we\u2019re referring to the Konak Pier. This striking, circa-1867 customs house was built by French architect and construction engineer Gustave Eiffel. Restored in the 2000s, the structure now serves as a shopping and entertainment complex. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n About a 10-minute walk from Konak Pier is the Konak ferry terminal. From here, you can catch a ride to Kar\u015f\u0131yaka, one of \u0130zmir \u2019s most picturesque seafront districts, as well as the home to the Kar\u015f\u0131yaka S.K. football team. We would also recommend the 15-minute walk to the Bostanl\u0131 promenade, the epitome of a peaceful urban park. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Located in the Karata\u015f quarter, the Historical Elevator was built in 1907 by businessman Nesim Levi Bayrako\u011flu. The Elevator connected Halilr\u0131fat Pa\u015fa Caddesi and Mithatpa\u015fa, which previously required a climb up 155 steps. The terrace atop the Tower features sweeping views of the city and the sea.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n With such a rich history, \u0130zmir also has plenty of museums. Our top recommendations include the \u0130zmir Atat\u00fcrk Museum, the \u0130zmir Archaeology Museum, the \u0130zmir Museum of History and Art, and the \u0130zmir Ethnography Museum. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s the second day of your \u0130zmir visit \u2013 and time to delve into the city\u2019s history!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n In the Konak quarter, the Kemeralt\u0131 Bazaar is a popular spot in \u0130zmir. The sprawling bazaar dates to the 17<\/span>th<\/span> century and extends over approximately five square kilometers, featuring 15,000 stalls and storefronts. It bears the distinction of being the world\u2019s second largest open-air shopping area. In addition, Kemeralt\u0131 is home to historical inns, bathhouses and fountains. While you\u2019re here, sample \u0130zmir \u2019s famous sugar candy and perhaps dine at one of the many restaurants. If you\u2019re visiting in the winter, you can drink a warm salep!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Now we head for the hills, namely Pagos Hill and Kadifekale. The site where \u0130zmir was re-established in the 4th century BC and now part of the Konak district, every corner of Kadifekale bears traces of its former Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman inhabitants in addition to panoramic views of \u0130zmir Bay. There is also a legend about the site: Allegedly, Alexander the Great fell asleep while hunting on Pagos Hill. In a dream, an oracle instructed Alexander to rebuild the city at the foot of the hill. It is a lovely story\u2026 though it is more likely that the city was relocated due to commercial and economic considerations. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Next, we visit the historic K\u0131zlara\u011fas\u0131 Inn, near the \u0130zmir Port. Set on an area of \u200b\u200bapproximately 4,000 square meters, the Inn is an important structure belonging to the Ottoman period. Add it to your list of relaxing places in \u0130zmir \u2013 you can buy gifts and enjoy delicious Turkish coffee in an authentic atmosphere.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Ah, the Ancient City of Ephesus. This is one of the most popular routes of \u0130zmir and rightfully so. In the Sel\u00e7uk district of \u0130zmir, the area around Ephesus has hosted settlements since the seventh millennium BC. It takes at least a couple of hours to wander around the well-preserved Ancient City of Ephesus \u2013 a metropolis of its era \u2013 and you may prefer to hire a guide or join a tour. You can also visit significant sites such as the House of the Virgin Mary and the Temple of Artemis. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s your third day in \u0130zmir: time to take advantage of the city\u2019s proximity to small coastal towns that have sea-scented breezes and charming cobblestone streets. If camping appeals, these stops offer some nice <\/span>\u0130zmir campsites<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n The region is beautiful in every season and, not far from the \u0130zmir city center, there are numerous options for excursions. An hour\u2019s drive will bring you to Urla, with Quarantine Island, Art Street, and wonderful restaurants and cafes; near Urla are the picturesque Bal\u0131kl\u0131ova, \u00c7e\u015fmealt\u0131, \u00d6zbek and G\u00fclbah\u00e7e villages.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n \u015eirince, another nearby town, is renowned for its natural beauty, as are Seferihisar, Karaburun and Old or New Fo\u00e7a. And, of course, the charms of quaint \u00c7e\u015fme and Ala\u00e7at\u0131 are undeniable.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n The standard description of \u0130zmir spotlights sea, sand, sun, thanks to the area\u2019s magnificent beaches and coastlines along the brilliant Aegean Sea. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Aquarium Beach and Akkum Beach in Seferihisar are among the most popular beaches and feature plentiful facilities. The peaceful Old Fo\u00e7a Public Beach, and the beaches of \u00c7e\u015fme Il\u0131ca and Dalyan are also popular. For more information on beachgoing, check out the <\/span>Alluring \u0130zmir beaches for beginners<\/span><\/a> blog!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n if you\u2019re like us, eating and discovering new dishes is an integral element of any holiday. Needless to say, you can dine well in \u0130zmir! The area\u2019s cuisine is shaped by the many civilizations it has hosted, as well as its Mediterranean climate and fertile lands. Fresh seafood and roasted meats, fresh herbs and greens, and the renowned olive oil dishes specific to the Aegean Region await hungry visitors, along with local street foods such as kumru (sandwiches) or stuffed mussels.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n We present a list of dishes to sample:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n If your interest is piqued and you\u2019ve decided to buy a <\/span>ticket<\/span><\/a> to \u0130zmir, keep reading\u2026<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0\u0130zmir offers a range of accommodations suitable for every budget; the city\u2019s most central neighborhoods are Alsancak, Konak and Kar\u015f\u0131yaka, which are also quite popular with tourists. For a more peaceful, bucolic experience, hotels in Urla, Seferihisar or Sirince will more than meet your expectations.<\/span><\/p>\n In addition, by using <\/span>Turkish Airlines Holidays<\/span><\/a> services, you can arrange the flight and accommodation as a holiday package \u2013 for stress-free planning!<\/span><\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n \u0130zmir has an efficient public transportation network. There are buses (\u0130zban line) from \u0130zmir Adnan Menderes Airport to the city center. In addition, taxis and car rentals are available. If you\u2019re traveling via rental car or private vehicle, we do suggest that you park your vehicle and use the ferry, metro or bus \u2013 like most cities, \u0130zmir has traffic.<\/span><\/p>\n \u0130zmir has an essential place in the history of T\u00fcrkiye. For a closer look at the history of \u0130zmir, please see \u00a0<\/span>the page of the Governorship of \u0130zmir<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n
\n\n\n\nPlaces to Visit in \u0130zmir <\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Foca,](\"https:\/\/blog.turkishairlines.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/izmirde-gezilecek-yerler.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDay One: Explore the city<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"](\"https:\/\/blog.turkishairlines.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/izmir-sehir-merkezi-gezilecek-yerler.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nK\u0131br\u0131s \u015eehitleri Caddesi (Cyprus Martyrs Street)<\/b><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\u0130zmir Clock Tower<\/b><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\u0130zmir](\"https:\/\/blog.turkishairlines.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/izmir-saat-kulesi.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nKonak Pier<\/b><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Kar\u015f\u0131yaka<\/b><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\u0130zmir Historical Elevator<\/b><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\u0130zmir](\"https:\/\/blog.turkishairlines.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/izmir-gezilecek-yerler-asansor.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\u0130zmir museums<\/b><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nDay Two: Historical sites!<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/blog.turkishairlines.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/izmir-tarihi-yerler.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHistorical Kemeralt\u0131 Bazaar of \u0130zmir <\/b><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Kadifekale<\/b><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
K\u0131zlaragas\u0131 Inn<\/b><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Kizlaragasi](\"https:\/\/blog.turkishairlines.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/izmir-kizlaragasi-hani.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAncient City of Ephesus<\/b><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Ancient](\"https:\/\/blog.turkishairlines.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/efes-antik-kenti.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nDay Three: Enjoy nature and the sea!<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Serene routes<\/b><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\u0130zmir Beaches<\/b><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Il\u0131ca](\"https:\/\/blog.turkishairlines.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/izmir-plajlari.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat to eat in \u0130zmir <\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Famous](\"https:\/\/blog.turkishairlines.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/izmir-yemekleri.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAccommodation in \u0130zmir\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\n
Transportation in \u0130zmir<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Ephesus](\"https:\/\/blog.turkishairlines.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/izmir-bilinmesi-gerekenler.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n