La Belle Izmir, as the Turks call it, is located at the bottom of a gulf in the Aegean Sea. The city slowly stretches along the side of the surrounding mountains. Cradled by the winds, intoxicated by the sea air, it has everything of a dream destination. But what exactly is there to see in and around Izmir? Follow the leader !
See Konak Meydani Square
Located in the heart of the city of Izmir, along the gulf, stretches the immense square of Konak Meydani. It is especially at this place that you will see the clock tower, the emblem of the city. It is a very lively square, from where you can see the town hall as well as the Yali mosque (also called Konak mosque). Not far away is Izmir's main market: the Kemeralti Market.
Konak Square à Izmir
Stroll through the Kemeralti Market
Who says Turkish city, says “bazaar”! A must see in Izmir, the Kemeralti Market encompasses several streets in the pedestrian center. Do not be afraid of getting lost in the maze of cobbled streets, this is all the charm of the place! There you will find a multitude of stalls selling a bit of everything: clothing, leather crafts, jewelry, food, etc. Open your eyes wide, let yourself be guided by the scents and savor! An ideal ride to bring back some memories in your suitcases.
Kemeralti Market
Discover the Izmir Archaeological Museum
All around Izmir are many archaeological sites, such as Ephesus or Miletus. The result of these excavations is presented in this museum: sarcophagi, Roman busts, bronze or terracotta objects, etc. A cultural place to see in Izmir in order to understand the historical richness of this region!
The archaeological site of Miletus
Take to the heights at Asansör
An emblematic place to see in Izmir, Asansör will allow you to have an exceptional view of the city. Climb for free in the cabin and enjoy the climb to admire the panorama. When you reach the top, you can sit down at the restaurant for lunch in an enchanting setting! Built at the beginning of the 20th century for practical reasons (to facilitate the transport of goods from the bottom to the top of the city), it is now one of the main tourist attractions of Izmir.
Izmir Asansör, on the right
Hiking in Karagöl Park
A magical place to see in Izmir, about fifteen kilometers from the city : Karagöl National Park. With your picnic, set off for a day to cool off. In Turkish Karagöl means “black lake”, yet nothing to worry about: this outing can be a very pleasant bucolic break between two visits, especially in summer! Put on your sneakers to stroll along the forest trails and savor a good grape ice cream while strolling around the lake!
Black Lake
Visit the Agora of Smyrna
A true open-air museum, the Agora is the main archaeological site currently being excavated to see in Izmir. You can discover the remains of the ancient city of Smyrna which dates from the 4th century BC.. Partially destroyed in 178 by an earthquake, it was rebuilt by the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. Even if a large part of the site is closed to the public (you have to let the archaeologists work!), The visit is worth a look, especially for the water canals which are very well preserved.
The Now of Smyrna
Explore the archaeological site of Ephesus
Ephesus is an important site in more than one way, but above all because it was one of the great centers of the time of the first Christians. The remains of the Roman period are perfectly well preserved, which will allow you to see baths, several theaters, a triumphal arch, a Trajan fountain or even a Domitian square, not to mention a Hadrian temple. An exceptional site to discover if you are staying in Izmir!
The Library of Celsus in Ephesus
Admire the site of Pergamon
If Ephesus is a Roman city, Pergamum dates from the Hellenistic period. You will discover in particular the famous acropolis on which you will find the foundations of the royal palaces, the temple of Trajan or the library of Pergamon. Also take a tour of the arsenals from which you will have superb views of the Roman aqueducts. Finally, the ruins of Asclepeion are simply magnificent to see with the sacred way, the small theater or the marble swimming pool.
The temple of Trajan in Pergamum
Useful information
To help you prepare for your stay in Izmir, here is some information about the city:
- To visit all there is to see in Izmir, the ideal is to rent a car, especially for visits outside the city like Ephesus or Karagöl Park.
- In terms of accommodation, in addition to the traditional hotels, you can easily rent a room with the locals. There are also many farms converted into guest houses, enough to stay in the purest Ottoman tradition!
- If you have your camping equipment, know that in the countryside around Izmir you will be able to find little corners of paradise to sleep in the heart of nature, especially as wild camping is accepted all over the country!
- To get to Izmir, many flights are direct from France. Allow 3h30 for the journey from Paris.
Karaburun dans la province d'Izmir
The must-sees of Izmir… and after?
At the edge of the Aegean Sea, Izmir is often a very pleasant gateway for travelers. Resolutely turned towards the West, it is a superb base for a stay combining sightseeing and lazing on the beach. If your trip to Turkey continues, take a look at our articles on Istanbul or Antalya to better prepare your trip!
