If the intrepid traveler wanders past the boundaries of Istanbul’s sprawling metropolis to see extra of Türkiye, it’s typically the fairytale chimneys of Cappadocia or the glamorous seashores of Bodrum that steal the highlight. Yet, perched alongside the Aegean Coast lies Izmir, a vacation spot wealthy in historical past, tradition, and appeal that usually goes unnoticed.
Its close by neighbor of Ephesus, residence to one of many Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is a well-liked cease for cruise ship passengers, group excursions, and even spiritual pilgrims, due to town’s remarkably well-preserved historic ruins and ties with early Christianity.
But who’s speeding to Izmir (outdoors of those that know it’s a high vacation spot for marriage ceremony robe buying)? Izmir is probably not on everybody’s bucket checklist, however this charming coastal metropolis presents a refreshing escape and an ideal distinction to the colourful chaos of Istanbul.
It is a spot the place historic ruins meet trendy power. Where the Kemeraltı Bazaar far outshines Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar in its authenticity. Where eating places line the waterfront and it’s possible you’ll simply come across pink flamingos dipping their beaks into close by wetlands.
In simply three days, you’ll be able to immerse your self within the area’s millennia-old tales, savor the realm’s burgeoning meals and wine scene, and mingle with locals for a deeper, extra significant journey expertise. This Izmir itinerary blends the long-lasting landmarks of the traditional metropolis of Ephesus with the traditional gems of Izmir itself (previously referred to as Smyrna), and the laid-back vibes of Urla, an enthralling coastal city identified for its vineyards and artistic delicacies.
3 Day Izmir Itinerary
Whether you’re a historical past buff, a foodie, or a traveler searching for one thing totally different, Izmir presents an opportunity to see a facet of Türkiye that feels each genuine and unforgettable. Here’s methods to spend three good days exploring Izmir and its fascinating environment.
I visited in November with a bunch of journey writers and spent my time exploring below the educated tutelage of the Neslihan Hurda from Equinox Travel. Even in case you discover this area by yourself, I’d extremely suggest reserving a tour of Ephesus with Nesli. Her heat and friendliness are matched by her deep information of historical past and tradition.
Day 1: Discover the Heart of Izmir
Izmir has a lot to see that it would be best to dedicate a day simply to exploring town’s historical past and tradition. Begin on the Agora of Smyrna, an archaeological website that dates again to Izmir’s days as a key buying and selling hub within the historic world. From there, make your strategy to Kemeraltı Bazaar, a sprawling market the place you’ll be able to wander for hours. Lose your self in its winding alleys crammed with absolutely anything you’ll be able to think about from recent fish and produce to ornately beaded robes or inexpensive Turkish textiles.
Don’t miss a cease at Kızlarağası Hanı, a centuries-old caravanserai that now homes tea gardens and craft outlets and you’ll want to seize a boyoz pastry, a neighborhood favourite, at one of many bakeries. If you have been disillusioned by the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul (I actually was), you’ll be delighted within the authenticity of the trendy Agora of Izmir.
For lunch, cease at one of many many cafes that line the slim alleys throughout the bazaar, or settle right into a family-run restaurant. We loved a wonderful meal at Ayşa Boşnak Börekçisi (aka Mezze House), a Michelin Bib Gormand 2024 restaurant that gives a large assortment of wonderful mezze the place you pay by the load.
In the afternoon, embrace Izmir’s trendy facet. Rent a motorcycle or take a tour with Phoenicia Travel and cruise alongside the Kordon, town’s coastal promenade and bike path, stopping to soak within the coastal views and seize a Turkish espresso alongside the way in which. For these in the hunt for retail remedy, Izmir’s boutique outlets are the right place to hunt for a one-of-a-kind costume or handcrafted jewellery. Brides-to-be will probably be enchanted by the rows of designer bridal boutiques discovered downtown.
In the night, head over to Dario Moreno Street and take the Asansor (elevator) as much as the highest of the cliffs that tower over town. This previously predominantly Jewish neighborhood presents beautiful views of town and the bay and there’s a bar restaurant on the high of the elevator that might make an ideal sundown spot.
Dario Moreno was a well-known singer and you will see that murals and statues devoted to him on this small avenue lined with eating places, making a really perfect dinner spot.
Day 2: Step Back in Time in Ephesus
A go to to Izmir isn’t full and not using a day journey to Ephesus, one of many best-preserved historic cities on the planet. An early begin means you’ll have time to immerse your self in its storied ruins earlier than the cruise ship teams arrive. Getting there early is very essential in case you are visiting throughout the summer time when temperatures will soar over 100 levels Fahrenheit and there may be restricted shade. The different choice is to go late within the day, since throughout the summer time months the location is open late.
As I discussed earlier, getting a non-public information to tour Ephesus is effectively price the fee. Because whereas the handfuls of stray canines and cats that make their residence within the historic ruins are pleasant and well-cared for, they don’t make one of the best tour guides.
What struck me upon getting into the traditional metropolis of Ephesus was the scale and scale of the ruins which were uncovered. The undeniable fact that solely 20 p.c of town has been excavated is mind-blowing, as is the state of the preservation. With largely-intact mosaics and frescoes, detailed carvings, and well-preserved constructions, it feels unattainable that this was all constructed over 2,000 years in the past.
Ephesus started below Persian rule and this essential port metropolis was subsequent conquered by Alexander the Great and grew and flourished below the Greek Hellenistic Period. When it later was a part of the Roman Empire, over 300,000 folks lived in Ephesus. Its decline started in 270 AD, when an earthquake destroyed many buildings and, with Christianity taking on, the temples and buildings weren’t rebuilt and the folks moved out and deserted town to historical past.
The highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site embody the Library of Celsus, a towering image of Roman grandeur; the Great Theater, which nonetheless hosts concert events and occasions; the Temple of Artemis, which was one of many Seven Ancient Wonders of the World; and the Terrace Houses of the rich, whose intricate mosaics and frescoes reveal glimpses of every day life practically two millennia in the past. Just be aware that visiting the Terrace Houses requires an extra ticket, as does a go to to the Ephesus Experience Museum, which is an immersive digital reenactment of town’s historical past.
Altogether, plan on taking at the least two to a few hours to discover the traditional metropolis of Ephesus. After your go to, pause for a leisurely lunch in close by Selçuk. We visited on a Saturday and located a vibrant native farmer’s market and loved freshly made meatballs or kebabs and a very good array of meze at Selçuk Köftecisi.
Religious guests additionally like to go to the close by Basilica of St. John and the House of the Virgin Mary, the place it’s believed that Mary lived the ultimate years of her life.
Returning to Izmir within the late afternoon, wind down with dinner alongside town’s lovely waterfront promenade. Seafood is a should—grilled fish, calamari, and meze dishes pair fantastically with the view of the Aegean at sundown.
Day 3: Coastal Bliss in Urla
For your last day, escape to Urla, a coastal city simply 40 minutes from Izmir. Begin within the port space, on the energetic fish market, the place the day’s freshest catch is auctioned off. Stroll alongside the waterfront, take within the small farmer’s market in case you go to on a market day, and cease for a standard Turkish espresso at one of many many waterfront cafes.
You also can stroll over to the close by Urla Klazomenai Ancient City Olive Oil Workshop, the place you’ll be able to see the place and the way olive oil was produced courting again to the sixth century BC.
From there, it’s a quick drive to creative city of Urla Sanat Sokagi, a haven for creatives crammed with galleries, pottery studios, and charming cafés. You will need to have lunch and take time to buy and stroll alongside the cobblestone streets, previous colourful homes and trendy outlets. Begendik Abi Lokantasi is an enthralling restaurant with conventional meals and a comfy setting that appears like you may have been welcomed into a neighborhood’s residence.
As the day winds down…it’s time for wine. Venture inland to the Urla Wine Trail, a group of boutique wineries producing a few of Türkiye’s best reds, whites, and rosés. If you solely have time for one tasting, reserve a spot on the Urla Winery.
This trendy vineyard has a tranquil setting with a sweeping view of its 700 acres of vineyards. Urla Sarapçilik combines outdated wine making customs with a contemporary strategy to supply practically 300,000 bottles yearly. Urla produces wines from endemic and internationally-known varietals from Chardonnay and Cabernet to the distinct Bogazkere, which occurred to be my favourite.
As your journey involves an finish, you’ll be left wanting to see extra of the genuine facet of Türkiye, past the overwhelmed path, amazed by all of the nation has to supply.
Getting to Izmir
It is a brief flight from Istanbul to Izmir at simply over an hour. The Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) additionally presents direct flights from main cities in Europe and the Middle East. The metropolis heart is just about 11 miles from the airport, however except you’re utilizing a tour information, it would be best to lease a automobile.
Additionally, the Port of İzmir serves as a hub for ferry providers, with boats connecting town to close by islands, reminiscent of Chios in Greece, in addition to different Turkish coastal cities like Kuşadası and Çeşme.
Where to Stay in Izmir
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For a central location proper on the waterfront in a contemporary resort, ebook a keep on the Izmir Marriott. I discovered the rooms snug and classy. There is a full restaurant downstairs that hosts a sturdy breakfast buffet. If you take pleasure in nightlife, the rooftop pool bar is open seasonally or there are dozens of eating places and bars simply steps away.
Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former advertising government and journey advisor, Tamara is an award-winning journey author and acknowledged skilled in household journey. Tamara is a member of SATW, NATJA, IFWTWA, and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She can also be the writer of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens journey podcast.