Izmir

Wharf-side canals, a soaring Dom Tower, bikes everywhere and student life

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Izmir is Turkeys laid-back Aegean city, where a palm-lined seafront promenade, a labyrinthine bazaar and three thousand years of history as ancient Smyrna meet a famously relaxed, modern outlook. The ruins of Ephesus and the white terraces of Pamukkale lie within easy reach. Our local picks run from waterfront meyhanes and seafood terraces to the stalls of Kemeralti and sunset bars on the Kordon. Filter by category and budget below to plan your visit.

Izmir at a glance

Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
Best time to visit: May to October
Highlights: the Kordon seafront, the Kemeralti bazaar and nearby Ephesus
Where to stay: the central Alsancak and Konak districts
Local picks: a growing set of hand-chosen tips
Getting around: an easy metro, tram and ferry network plus a walkable centre

Where to stay in Izmir

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Konak

Key Hotel Izmir

★ 4.5

$$$

Konak

Konak Square & Clock Tower

★ 4.6

Alsancak

Kordon Promenade

★ 4.5

Alsancak

Kordon Seafood Restaurant

★ 4.5

$$$

Alsancak

Kordon Waterfront Bars

★ 4.3

Alsancak

Mövenpick Hotel Izmir

★ 4.3

Pamukkale

Pamukkale Guided Tour

★ 4.8

Alsancak

Swissotel Grand Efes Izmir

★ 4.6

$$$

Karataş

Tarihi Asansör (Historic Elevator)

Why it matters: built in 1907 by Jewish banker Nesim Levi Bayraklıoğlu as a free public service – so Karataş residents could skip the 155-step climb up the cliff – the Asansör sent most of its early profits to the Karataş Jewish Hospital until 1942. More than a century on, the restored brick tower is a beloved İzmir community landmark and still lifts anyone to the top for free. Ride up for what locals swear is the best sunset view over the Gulf of İzmir, then wander the palm-lined Dario Moreno Street below, named for the singer who grew up here. Tip: come about an hour before sunset, grab a table at the rooftop cafe, and stay for the light on the water.

Konak

Turkish Delight & Spice Shops

★ 4.4

Urla

Urla Women’s Cooperative (Urla Kadın Kooperatifi)

Why it matters: run by roughly 170 women of the Urla peninsula, this producer cooperative turns the region’s famous artichokes, wild herbs and heirloom recipes into an income women earn for themselves – one of the Aegean’s most successful women’s co-ops, started by just seven founders. The shelves are the reward for visitors: small-batch jams, herb and artichoke erişte (egg noodles), tomato paste, pickles and olive-oil goods, all made and jarred by members. Sit at the Urla Karya tea house for gözleme and a Turkish coffee, then stock up on gifts you won’t find in the chain shops. Tip: pair it with an Urla vineyard-and-olive-oil day trip from central İzmir – the town is about 40 minutes west.

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Find hotels in Izmir Book tours and experiences

Izmir travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Izmir?

Two to three days covers the Kordon, Konak and the bazaar, with a day trip to Ephesus or Cesme.

Where is the best area to stay in Izmir?

The central Alsancak and Konak districts keep you on the seafront and within walking distance of the sights, bars and restaurants.

What are the best things to do in Izmir?

Browse the local picks above, from Konak Square and the Kemeralti bazaar to the Kordon promenade, the Asansor and a day trip to Ephesus.

What is the best time to visit Izmir?

Late spring to autumn brings warm, sunny weather ideal for the seafront and boat trips; the city stays pleasant and lively year round.