Izmir is the third biggest city of Türkiye situated on the western coast. This port city which is often called as the the "Pearl of the Aegean" is famous for its beauty. There are so many great things to see in Izmir and its neighbouring areas regardless of the time of your visit. Nevertheless, there is a long history that lies behind the city's past dating back to 3000 BC. Flights to Izmir are cheap and comfortable which makes it easier to discover this Turkish gem.
Contents
Izmir is the 3rd biggest city of the Republic of Türkiye, after Istanbul and Ankara. With its stunning beaches, cheerful people and dynamic social life Izmir is one of the most popular destinations in Türkiye. On the other hand, inhabitants of Izmir are known as the happiest amongst the country. You can see cheerful people hanging out with their friends on cordon, in other public places, or cultural activities, such as theatre and public meetings. Even today, immigrants prefer to move to Izmir, instead of other metropolises like Istanbul, Ankara, or Bursa.
Izmir's name comes from its ancient name "Smyrna". According to archeological excavations Izmir was founded in 3000 BC. Some say Izmir was founded by Amazons, others say it was founded by the legendary Phrygian King Tantalus.
Best Time to Visit Izmir
In spite of being a popular destination in summer, you can visit Izmir and enjoy your time whenever you want throughout the year. But if you look for a seasonal vacation, for instance swimming, sunbathing and having outstanding nights, summer is the right season for your holiday.
Throughout the year, there are a lot of festivals and events organized in Izmir, such as International Theatre Days.
Festivals in Izmir
Numerous festivals are held in different periods of the year in Izmir. You can design your trip according to these festival dates.
- Technology Festival: January 18
- Karaburun Narcissus Festival: January 26
- Karnavalizm: February 28
- Bigfest: June 6
- Izmir Youth Carnival: June 25
Places to Visit in Izmir
With its 8500 years of history, İzmir has social, cultural and seasonal holiday opportunities both in the city center and in the districts. Cinemas, concerts, theater plays, artistic events, showcases in the center of the city, accompanied by musicians, even walking on the streets gives people peace. In this ever-moving city, it is also possible to slow down life by resting along the Kordon.
Izmir is the city where you can have chilling vibes, entertaining activities. Besides, you can also discover the history and cultural background of the city like Ephesus.
Here are the places you should visit in Izmir:
Izmir Clocktower
Clock Tower, one of the symbolic figures of İzmir, was built upon the request of the Grand Vizier Mehmet Said Pasha in memory of the 25th anniversary of the reign of Abdulhamid II. The architect of the tower is the architect who also built the German Consulate. The tower clock was given by the German Emperor Wilhelm II. Since the construction date of the tower, since 1901, this watch is still working today. You can reach the Clock Tower by all means going to Konak, especially the city transportation vehicles called ESHOT.
Izmir Archeology and Ethnography Museum
The Archaeological Museum, which was first opened in 1927 at the Hagia Vukla Church, gained a deserved museum building in 1984. In this modern building of 5000 square meters within Konak Bahribaba Park, you can see the works of almost every period from thousands of years to the recent history. You can use all means of transportation passing through Konak to reach the museum.
Kemeraltı Bazaar
İzmir, which has been in the most important position of the region for thousands of years, is also the center of trade thanks to its advantageous harbor. In the past, various products from within the country were brought to Izmir and sent to abroad by sea. This situation makes İzmir, especially Kemeraltı, the heart of trade. Today, the historical Kemeraltı Bazaar does not have international commercial activity, but it is still alive.
Agora Ancient City
It is estimated that the Izmir Agora was built in the 2nd century BC during the Roman Period. İzmir Agora is one of the largest and most robust agora ever. The artifacts from this historic site are on display at the Izmir Archeology Museum today. This city, which is connected to the Roman Empire, had the right to build a temple on behalf of the emperor, one of the most prestigious rights of the empire, three times. The ancient city, including the Agora, also has one of the world's largest theaters and the stadium. The most effortless way to reach the ancient city is to use the metro. You can reach Smyrna after a 5-minute walk after getting off at Çankaya from the metro.
St. Polycarp Church
The church in Çankaya is one of the most magnificent temples in İzmir. The building, built in 1625, is an architectural structure at the peaks of aesthetics with its frescoes that are even more visible after the last restoration. The church, one of the oldest witnesses of the tolerance of İzmir, is opened for visits from time to time. The church is located in a very central location in the city. There is no charge for entrance to the church. Located next to Çankaya Square, the church is a 10-minute walk from the historical Kemeraltı Bazaar. The easiest way to reach the church from any part of Izmir is by metro. After you get off at Çankaya metro stop, you can reach the church by walking 200 meters.
Alsancak Kordon
Watching the blue sea from green grass in Kordon which is one of the symbolic points of İzmir is one of the most enjoyable things of the world. You can also increase this pleasure with a dinner with Kordon views. Located in Alsancak district, Kordon Boyu is easily reached by bus and metro.
Beaches and Bays
Bodrum Bay, where the beautiful sea of Karaburun meets, has recently been preferred especially for water sports. Entrance to Bodrum Beach is free, but you may have to pay a little for the sun beds and umbrellas.
Sazlıca Bay is l ocated in Foça, this beautiful bay is almost created for those who like to camp out to sea. You can rent sun loungers and umbrellas when you go to Sazlıca Bay's Beach, which is located on the 7th kilometer of Yeni Foça-Eski Foça Road.
Bademli Bay and Fame Beach: Dikili has a beauty blessed by god, and Bademli Bay proves it. If you want to have a holiday in this bay that is reminiscent of paradise with the cleanliness of the sea, you can visit Fame Beach.
THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING TRUDENT CLINICS