Izmir

What are the most recommended things to do in Izmir?

Visit Konak Square and the iconic Izmir Clock Tower.
Explore the historic Kemeralti Bazaar for shopping and local crafts.
Walk along Kordonboyu waterfront for sea views, cafés, and nightlife.
Tour the ancient city of Ephesus nearby for historical ruins.
Visit Asansör for panoramic city views and photography.
Explore the Izmir Archaeology Museum and Ethnography Museum.
Enjoy a ferry ride to nearby villages or the Karşıyaka district.
Relax in Kültürpark and attend local events or fairs.
Experience local Turkish cuisine in Alsancak and Basmane districts.

Introducing Izmir

Izmir, Turkey's third-largest city, lies on the Aegean Sea at the western end of the Anatolian Plateau. It is a major industrial, commercial, foreign trade, and maritime hub, as well as a renowned historical and cultural destination, a tourist destination, and a military fortress. Since ancient times, it has been the center of the Aegean's agricultural region. Izmir's urban area is clean and tidy, with tall buildings lining its skyline. Izmir also boasts numerous historical sites, including the ancient clock tower, the 15th-century Hisar Mosque, and the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. World-renowned landmarks include the ruins of the ancient Greek city of Ephesus and the final resting place of the Virgin Mary. A broad, palm-lined promenade stretches against a backdrop of lush green mountains and clear waters. The Aegean Sea ripples gently, lapping against the long seawall. Fish such as scorpions and silver arrowheads frequently leap from the water, while flocks of seagulls skim among the waves. The merging of water and sky creates a breathtakingly beautiful scene.

Climate and best time to travel

The climate is Mediterranean. Summers are dominated by subtropical high pressure, resulting in descending air currents and hot, dry weather. In winter, the subtropical high pressure shifts southward, swept by westerlies. Tropical maritime air masses frequently infiltrate, intersecting with temperate cold air masses and creating a multi-frontal cyclone rainy season. Winter temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 10°C to 15°C.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Ruins of the Temple of Artemis

The temple was last rebuilt in the 6th century BC. It originally had 120 columns (the Parthenon in Greece had only 46), demonstrating its grandeur. Now, only one column remains, a desolate sight. The village, still known by the name Seljuk, has a population of approximately 25,000. Behind the ruins lies a 13th-century Seljuk castle and a 14th-century mosque. The 6th-century tomb (and church) of John, the disciple of Jesus, is also nearby.

Ephesus

Ephesus in Greek and Efes in Turkish, Ephesus is a top tourist attraction in Turkey due to its ancient city ruins dating from the Hellenistic era to the Roman era. The origins of Ephesus are unknown. In the 11th century BC, the Ionians settled here, built a city, and constructed a temple dedicated to the city's patron saint, Artemis. During the Roman Empire, St. John lived here and completed the Gospel, a significant event in Christian history. In the mid-3rd century, the Goths conquered the city, completely destroying the temple, but the city was revived. In the Christian era, Ephesus, like its neighboring cities, suffered the same fate: its Greek temples were abandoned as pagan shrines. Some were even used as stone for new Christian churches, and nearly every temple was destroyed. After the 15th century, Ephesus virtually disappeared from history until excavations in the late 19th century.

Pergamon

Known in ancient times as Pergamon, it was a small city facing the Aegean Sea. It flourished in the 2nd century BC and is renowned for its remains of a Hellenistic kingdom. The ruins are extensive, featuring a large amphitheater seating over 2,000, numerous temple ruins, and the remains of a gymnasium and stadium scattered across a vast area.

Pergamon was the capital during the Pergamon Kingdom era, boasting a level of scholarship and art comparable to that of Alexandria in Egypt. For example, Pergamon's library rivaled that of Alexandria, boasting a collection of 200,000 volumes. The Egyptian Ptolemaios dynasty, jealous of this library, banned the export of its specialty, papyrus (paper made from the reed), prompting Pergamon to invent a substitute, parchment. This parchment became a widespread substitute for paper in medieval Europe. The Pergamon art scene was also exceptional, with sculptures known as the Pergamon School, a particularly prominent example of Hellenistic sculpture. Many of the excavated artifacts are now housed in the Pergamon Museum in Berlin, Germany.

Santa Maria's Cottage

There's debate over whether the Gospel of John, the disciple of Jesus, was completed in Greece or in Ionian. However, it's certain that John died there. Since John was entrusted by Jesus with the care of the Virgin Mary, she also spent her final years there. The excavation of the House of the Virgin Mary on the hillside behind the ruins of Ionian in 1890 confirmed this as the site where she spent her final years, attracting a constant stream of pilgrims.

Temple of Hadrian

The Temple of Hadrian is a typical example of a Corinthian temple. Hadrian was the Roman emperor at the time. The interior columns are decorated with carvings of various mythological figures. One side dates back to the Greek era, while the other depicts figures from the Amazonian realm. The sculpture on the inner facade depicts the Gorgon Medusa, symbolizing her strength and protection of the temple.

Celsus Library

The Library of Celsus is a landmark of the ancient city. In the second century AD, a Roman consul built this magnificent library on the site of his father's tomb to commemorate his succession as governor of Israel, Celsus Polemaenus. At the time, the library was considered the second largest in Asia Minor, second only to the one in Pergamene. Despite enduring fires and earthquakes, the library's main entrance remains standing, with its most recent renovation occurring around 1970. Four shrines of goddesses can be clearly seen behind the stone columns on the first floor of the entrance, but the four statues on the second floor have disappeared. According to records, these artifacts are now housed in the Vienna State Museum, thanks to Austrian assistance in archaeological excavations in the early 20th century.

Sha'at Qureshi Clock Tower

The Saat Kulesi Clock Tower, a symbol of Izmir, is located in the heart of the city, on Konak Square. It was donated by Sultan Abdulhamid. Built in 1901, it is decorated with intricate late Ottoman designs.

Aegean Sea

For Chinese people, the Aegean Sea is a sea steeped in romance. Located in western Turkey, where it meets the Mediterranean Sea, the Aegean coast boasts exceptionally beautiful terrain. Along its long coastline, lapped by crystal-clear waters, lie olive orchards, steep cliffs, and vast, elegant beaches framed by pine forests. Idyllic fishing villages are scattered among resorts and ancient civilizations steeped in 5,000 years of history, culture, and mythology. This region naturally attracts a diverse audience, from nature lovers and sun-seekers to photographers, sports enthusiasts, and archaeologists, offering a wide range of accommodations to suit all tastes.

Most Popular FAQs for Izmir

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Izmir, historically known as Smyrna, is a major port city on the Aegean coast with a history dating back over 3,000 years. It has been influenced by Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman cultures, making it an important center for trade, culture, and history.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located on the western coast of Türkiye along the Aegean Sea. Accessible via Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, intercity buses, or train. Within the city, use metro, buses, taxis, ferries, or walk in central districts like Konak and Alsancak.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions open from 9 AM to 6 PM. Best visiting seasons are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) for mild weather and fewer crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Most city attractions are free or low-cost (~₺50–₺150 for museums). Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance; some museums offer online reservations.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is recommended for popular museums or day trips (Ephesus, ferry tours) 1–2 weeks ahead, but city sightseeing generally does not require advance tickets.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 days for city highlights; add 1–2 days for nearby sites like Ephesus and Pergamon.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Konak Square and Izmir Clock Tower
Kemeralti Bazaar
Kordonboyu waterfront
Asansör
Izmir Archaeology and Ethnography Museums
Kültürpark

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided tours are available in English, Turkish, German, and other major languages, especially for historical sites and museums.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Asansör (panoramic city view)
Kordonboyu waterfront
Konak Square
Historic bazaars and narrow streets in Alsancak

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Day 1: Konak Square, Kemeralti Bazaar, Kordonboyu; Day 2: Museums, Asansör, Alsancak streets; Day 3: Day trip to Ephesus or nearby villages.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Evening strolls along Kordonboyu, night cafés in Alsancak, and occasional cultural events in Kültürpark are popular. Some museums may offer evening hours on special occasions.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

City center is busy during weekends and summer; weekdays and spring/autumn are less crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most attractions and parks provide toilets, cafés, water fountains, benches, and souvenir or gift shops.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Many city sites are accessible, including ramps and elevators. Some historic bazaars and ruins may be challenging for wheelchair users.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash (Turkish Lira) is useful for markets and small vendors; credit/debit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted in restaurants and larger shops.