If the intrepid traveler wanders beyond the limits of the sprawling metropolis of Istanbul to see more Türkiye, it is often the fairytale chimneys of Cappadocia or the glamorous beaches of Bodrum that steal the spotlight. However, perched along the Aegean coast is Izmir, a destination rich in history, culture and charm that often goes unnoticed.
Its neighbor near Ephesus, which houses one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, is a popular judgment for passengers of cruise ships, group visits and even religious pilgrims, thanks to the remarkably well -preserved ancient ruins and bonds of the city.
But who rushes to Izmir (apart from those who know that it is a leading destination for wedding dresses purchases)? Izmir may not be on the list of the buckets of everyone, but this charming coastal city offers a refreshing escape and a perfect contrast to the dynamic chaos of Istanbul.
It is a place where ancient ruins meet modern energy. Where the Kemeroaltı bazaar surpasses the great bazaar of Istanbul by far in its authenticity. Where restaurants line the seafront and you can simply fall on flamingos that plunge their beaks into the nearby wetlands.
In just three days, you can immerse yourself in the stories of the millennial region, savor the dietary scene and booming wine in the region and mingle with the inhabitants for a deeper and more significant travel experience. This Izmir route mixes the emblematic monuments of the ancient city of Ephesus with the ancient jewels of Izmir himself (formerly known as Smyrna), and the relaxed vibrations of Urla, a charming coastal city known for its vineyards and its creative cuisine.
3 -day Izmir route
Whether you are passionate about history, a gourmet or a traveler looking for something different, Izmir offers a chance to see a side of Türkiye who feels both authentic and unforgettable. Here’s how to spend three perfect days to explore Izmir and its captivating environment.
I visited in November with a group of travel writers and spent my time exploring under the competent supervision of Neslihan Hurda de Equinox trip. Even if you explore this region by yourself, I strongly recommend that you book an Ephesus visit with Nesli. His warmth and conviviality are equal by his in -depth knowledge of history and culture.
Day 1: Discover the heart of Izmir
Izmir has so much to see that you will want to devote a day just to the exploration of the history and culture of the city. Start Agora de SmyrneAn archaeological site that dates back to the Izmir era as a key trading center in the ancient world. From there, make your way to Kemeraltı bazaarA sprawling market where you can walk for hours. Lose yourself in its winding alleys filled with everything you can imagine of fresh fish and products with elaborate pearl dresses or affordable Turkish textiles.
Do not miss a stop in Kızlaradğası Hanı, a centuries-old caravanse that now houses tea gardens and craft shops and make sure to take a boyoz pastry, a local favorite, in one of the bakeries. If you were disappointed by the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul (I was certainly), you will be delighted with the authenticity of the modern agora of Izmir.
For lunch, stop in one of the many cafes that line the narrow alleys in the bazaar, or settle in a family restaurant. We enjoyed an excellent meal at Ayşa Boşnak Börekçisi (Aka Mezze House), a Michelin Bib Gormand 2024 restaurant which offers a wide assortment of excellent Mezze where you pay by weight.
In the afternoon, kiss the modern side of Izmir. Rent a bike Or do a tour with Phoenicia Voyage And sail along the Kordon, the city’s coastal promenade and the cycle path, stopping to soak up coastal views and have a Turkish coffee along the way. For those looking for retail therapy, Izmir stores are the ideal place to hunt a unique dress or handcrafted jewelry. The future brides will be enchanted by the rows of designer bridal shops found in the city center.
In the evening, head to Street Dario Moreno And take the Asansor (elevator) to the top of the cliffs that turn above the city. This district formerly with a Jewish predominance offers a breathtaking view of the city and the bay and there is a bar restaurant at the top of the elevator that would make a perfect place at sunset.
Dario Moreno was a famous singer and you will find murals and statues dedicated to her in this small street bordered by restaurants, making an ideal place.
Day 2: Go back in time to Ephesus
A visit to Izmir is not complete without a day trip to EphesusOne of the best preserved ancient cities in the world. An early start means that you will have time to immerse yourself in its vegetable ruins before the groups of cruise ships arrived. Stop early is particularly important if you visit during the summer when temperatures will go up to more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit and there is a limited shade. The other option is to go late during the day, because during the summer months, the site is open late.
As I mentioned earlier, getting a private guide to visit Ephesus is worth it. Because if the dozens of wandering dogs and cats that make their house in ancient ruins are friendly and well neat, they do not make the best tourist guides.
What struck me by entering the ancient city of Ephesus was the size and the scale of the ruins that were discovered. The fact that only 20% of the city has been excavated is breathtaking, just like the state of preservation. With largely intact mosaics and frescoes, detailed sculptures and well -preserved structures, it is impossible that all of this was built over 2000 years ago.
Ephesus started under the Persian regime and this important port city was then won over by Alexander the Great and developed and prospered under the Greek Hellenistic period. When he was later part of the Roman Empire, more than 300,000 people lived in Ephesus. Its decline began in 270 AD, when an earthquake destroyed many buildings and, with Christianity taking over, temples and buildings were not rebuilt and people moved and abandoned the city to history.
The highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage site include the Celsus libraryan imposing symbol of Roman grandeur; THE Great theaterwhich always hosts concerts and events; THE Temple of Artemiswhich was one of the seven old wonders of the world; and the Terrace houses The rich, whose mosaics and complex frescoes reveal overviews of everyday life there are almost two millennia. It is enough to note that visiting the houses on the terrace requires an additional ticket, as is a visit to the Ephesis Experience museum, which is an immersive digital reconstruction of the history of the city.
In total, plan to take at least two to three hours to explore the old town of Ephesus. After your visit, take a break for a quiet lunch nearby Salt. We visited a Saturday and found a dynamic local farmer market appreciated by meatballs or freshly prepared skewers and an excellent range of meze to Selçuk köftecisi.
Religious visitors also like to visit the neighboring Basilica of Saint-Jean and the house of the Virgin Mary, where Mary is believed to have lived in the last years of her life.
Returning to Izmir in the late afternoon, in terms of dinner along the beautiful walk by the city’s water. Sea fruits are a must – grilled fish, calamari and meze dishes go beautifully with the view of the Aegean at sunset.
Day 3: Coastal fell in Urla
For your last day, escape UrlaA coastal city only 40 minutes from Izmir. Start in the port area, on the busy fish market, where the coolest sockets of the day are sold at auction. Take a walk along the seafront, take the small farmer market if you visit a market day and stop for traditional Turkish coffee in one of the many cafes by the water.
You can also walk to the neighbor Urla Klazomenai Ancient City Olive Oil AtelierWhere you can see where and how olive oil was produced dating from the 6th century BC.
From there, it is a short trip by car from the artistic city of Urla Sanat SokagiA paradise for creatives filled with galleries, pottery studios and charming cafes. You will want to have lunch and take the time to shop and walk in the cobbled streets, colorful houses and fashionable stores. Beendik Abi Lokantasi is a charming restaurant with traditional cuisine and a comfortable setting that has the impression of having been welcomed in the house of a room.
As the day ends … it’s time for wine. Advent the land to the land towards the Urla wine trailA collection of boutique vineyards producing some of the best red, white and rosés in Türkiye. If you only have time for a single tasting, book a place at Urla cellar.
This modern cellar has a quiet setting with a panoramic view of its 700 acres of vineyards. Urla Sarapçilik combines old vinification customs with a modern approach to produce nearly 300,000 bottles per year. Urla produces wines from endemic and internationally known grape varieties of Chardonnay and Cabernet with a distinct Bogazkere, which was my favorite.
While your trip will end, you will want you to want more on the authentic side of Türkiye, beyond the beaten track, surprised by all that the country has to offer.
Arrive in Izmir
It is a short flight from Izmir to Izmir at just over an hour. Adnan Menderes (ADB) airport also offers direct flights from major European cities and the Middle East. The city center is only about 11 miles from the airport, but unless you use a guide, you will want to rent a car.
In addition, the port of Izmir serves as a hub for ferry services, with boats connecting the city to the neighboring islands, such as chios in Greece, as well as other Turkish coastal cities like Kuşadası and çeşme.
Where to stay in Izmir
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For a central location just by the water in a modern hotel, book a stay at Izmir Marriott. I found the rooms comfortable and elegant. There is a full restaurant below that hosts a robust breakfast buffet. If you like nightlife, the roof pool bar is open seasonally where there are dozens of restaurants and bars a few steps away.
Tamara Gruber is the founder and publisher of We3Travel. Former director of marketing and travel advisor, Tamara is a award -winning and expert travel writer recognized in family trips. Tamara is a member of Satw, Natja, Ifwtwa and Adventure Travel Trade Association, and headquarters to the Board of Directors of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimeTofly.com and the co-host of the Mavens Travel Podcast Podcast.
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