Izmir is often one of the most underrated cities in Turkey. Overlooked by its more glitzy cousins, Istanbul and Bodrum, the nation's third-largest city sits on the Aegean coast, offering a distinctly Western vibe. It effortlessly combines modern living, trendy eateries, and a vibrant nightlife scene with ancient ruins, art and architecture to explore. Simply put, Izmir has it all.
Stroll the Kordon
Kordon is Izmir's swanky promenade, allowing you to stroll or cycle silently for 6 kilometres without a care in the world. The coastline, running from Alsancak train station to Kordonboyu, is an ideal start to take in the metropolis cityscape and appreciate the Aegean Sea. Along the way, particularly to its eastern section, is a wealth of eateries, bars, hotels and restaurants where you can dine the night away. Summer affords a cooling breeze, while weekends and evenings will see visitors happily mixing with locals who sit on the grass and soak up the atmosphere.
Clock Tower, Konak
For many visitors, the iconic Clock Tower in Konak Square, just a short walk from the Kordon, is a central landmark to begin explorations in the city. The octagonal tower was built in 1901 by Levantine French architect Raymond Péré to mark the 25th anniversary of Sultan Abdulhamid II's reign. It is an enduring location, as it is just a short stroll from metro, bus, tram, and ferry links to the rest of the city. The Clock Tower is also situated near a wealth of other interesting attractions, including the Agora Open-Air Museum and Kemeralti Bazaar.
Kemeraltı Bazaar
If street food and shopping are your passions, then Kemeralti easily fulfils those needs. The area is a bustling, tightly packed one, extending from Mezarlıkbaşı to Konak Square, with Anafartalar Avenue serving as one of the main thoroughfares. With around 2,000 buildings in the area, there are many opportunities to haggle over prices, enjoy a bite to eat or sip cay, and people watch.
Alsancak
Another bustling, yet more upscale hub that Izmir citizens and visitors head to. It offers a heady cocktail of nightlife, a brilliant social scene, a diverse restaurant base catering to all tastes, and shopping opportunities galore. Heading off down side streets, there is often a Parisian air to the place quite unlike anywhere else in Turkey.
Art
The sumptuous former French Consulate building in Izmir is one of the main venues for art exhibitions in the Aegean region. The 130-year-old building was restored by Arkas Holding and is now the Arkas Art Center. There are nine exhibition rooms within a two-floor contemporary art centre. It regularly hosts works of many international artists and the collections of important museums and institutions.
Among the more quirky art hubs in Izmir is the Selcuk Yasar Painting Museum. It's an old restored house converted into an art institution and the first private art museum in Turkey. Selçuk Yaşar Painting Museum is a part of Yaşar Education and Culture Foundation's cultural services and is home to many works by Turkish painters.
History and Culture
There are many areas around Izmir that hark back to its glory years. Visit the ancient Roman market of İzmir Agora and marvel at its well-preserved ruins, or ride the historic Asansör elevator to enjoy panoramic views of the city from its rooftop terrace.
The Ataturk Museum explores the history and displays some personal items of the father of modern day Turkey, while the Zubeyde Hanim Museum Ship, named after Ataturk's mother, is especially popular.
The Izmir Archaeological Museum houses artifacts from ancient civilizations, including Greek, Roman, and Ottoman. Next door, the Ethnography Museum showcases more recent Turkish history, featuring items such as traditional costumes and crafts.
Nature
The Izmir Metropolitan Municipality Wildlife Park was the first zoo to be established zoo in Turkey. The park, laid out over 4,125 sqm, is now home to around 3,000 animals.
Further afield
If you are feeling more adventurous and scoping out day trips that are within easy reach of Izmir, then are several suggestions available. The charming attractions of Çeşme, Alaçatı, and Sığacık, are within easy travelling distance, as well as the ancient ruins of Teos, Bergama and Ephesus.
Andy Probert is an independent journalist who writes about global travel news, airlines, airports, and business. His work has appeared globally on the BBC, and in many national newspapers and magazines.
