İZMİR PROVINCE
İzmir is the “Pearl of the Aegean,” a cosmopolitan and modern city with a profound history that stretches back 3,500 years. It offers a unique mix of ancient ruins, bustling city life, and stunning coastal resorts.
This vibrant region is a tapestry of natural beauty, from pristine Aegean beaches to olive groves and vineyards, anchored by a deep sense of Turkish culture and a famously relaxed Mediterranean vibe.
Most Popular Attractions
İzmir City Core & Central Sites:
Konak Pier: A historic, beautiful building designed by Gustave Eiffel, now serving as a popular shopping and dining spot on the waterfront.
İzmir Clock Tower (Saat Kulesi): The iconic symbol of the city, located in Konak Square, an Ottoman-era masterpiece from 1901.
Kemeraltı Market: A vast, historic bazaar and labyrinthine market that has been the commercial heart of the city since the 17th century.
Hisar Mosque (Hisar Camii): The largest and oldest mosque in the city, an impressive example of 16th-century Ottoman architecture.
Kızlarağası Han: A beautifully restored 18th-century Ottoman caravanserai within the Kemeraltı Market, now home to various craft and souvenir shops.
Agora Open-Air Museum: The well-preserved ruins of the ancient Roman marketplace of Smyrna, right in the city center.
Asansör (Historical Elevator): A free-standing historical elevator tower built in 1907 to move people up a steep cliff; offers one of the best city views.
Ancient Wonders & Historical Ruins:
Ephesus (Efes): One of the greatest and best-preserved ancient cities in the world, including the magnificent Celsus Library and Great Theatre.
House of the Virgin Mary (Meryem Ana Evi): A Catholic and Muslim shrine near Ephesus where the Virgin Mary is believed to have spent her final years.
Pergamon Acropolis (Bergama): A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the remains of an ancient Hellenistic city, famous for its incredibly steep theatre.
Asclepeion (Bergama): An ancient healing center dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius, which utilized therapies like dream interpretation and mud baths.
St. John Basilica (Selçuk): The ruins of a massive 6th-century basilica believed to be the burial place of the Apostle John.
Temple of Artemis (Selçuk): The scant remains of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Teos Ancient City (Sığacık): The ruins of an Ionian city famous for being the world’s first “Actors’ Union” and its well-preserved theatre.
Coastal Towns, Beaches & Resorts:
Çeşme: A popular, upscale holiday resort known for its thermal springs, historic castle, and lively atmosphere.
Alaçatı: A charming town near Çeşme famous for its stone houses, boutique hotels, windsurfing opportunities, and buzzing nightlife.
Ilıca Beach: A long, beautiful sandy beach in Çeşme known for its exceptionally warm, shallow waters due to natural thermal springs.
Urla: A beautiful coastal town increasingly known for its burgeoning vineyard route, olive oil production, and high-quality restaurants.
Foça (Phocaea): A picturesque old town famous for its protected bays and as one of the few places where the critically endangered Mediterranean Monk Seals live.
Dalyan: A small, quieter bay near Çeşme known for its beautiful sea and tranquil atmosphere, often preferred by those seeking relaxation.
Karagöl Lake (Yamanlar Mountain): A scenic crater lake and nature park offering a cool escape, picnicking, and hiking just outside the city.
Şirince Village: A famous, beautiful old Greek Orthodox village known for its historic houses, homemade fruit wines, and traditional crafts.
Activities & Experiences
Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus (Efes): Wander through one of the best-preserved classical cities in the world. Marvel at the Library of Celsus, the massive Great Theatre, and the Terrace Houses.
Wander the Streets of Alaçatı: Visit this charming, chic coastal town known for its beautifully preserved stone houses, boutique shops, art galleries, and acclaimed restaurants.
Take a Ferry to the City’s European Side: Hop on a ferry from the Konak pier across the Gulf of İzmir to the trendy Karşıyaka or beautiful Bostanlı for a scenic view of the city skyline.
Hike and Explore in Şirince Village: Drive up to this picturesque village famous for its fruit wines, olive oil, and traditional Ottoman-style architecture nestled in the hills.
Go Kitesurfing or Windsurfing in Alaçatı: The bay near Alaçatı is internationally famous for its consistent, strong winds and shallow waters, making it a perfect spot for water sports.
Experience the Local Culture in Kemeraltı Market: Get lost in İzmir’s historical bazaar, a labyrinth of covered markets, artisan workshops, and street food stalls. Don’t miss the historical Hisar Mosque.
Hike to the Pergamon Acropolis: Travel north to the ancient city of Pergamon (Bergama) to see the spectacular ruins of the Acropolis, including the remains of the steep, legendary library.
Indulge in a Seafood Feast in Urla: Head to the seaside town of Urla, known for its fine-dining restaurants that specialize in incredibly fresh Aegean seafood and excellent local wines.
Visit a Vineyard on the Urla Wine Route: Explore the burgeoning wine region around Urla, tour modern, boutique wineries, and sample local Turkish wines made from native and international grapes.
Climb the Kadifekale (Velvet Castle): Hike up to this ancient castle overlooking the city for a breathtaking, panoramic view of the entire Gulf of İzmir, especially beautiful at sunset.
Stroll along the Kordon Promenade: Join the locals for a leisurely walk, bike ride, or çay (tea) along İzmir’s iconic waterfront boulevard, stretching from Konak to Alsancak.
Try Boyoz and Kumru: Sample the city’s unique street food. Start your day with a savoury Boyoz, a flaky pastry, and later grab a Kumru, a local sandwich with cheese, sausage, and tomato.
Local Tips & Transport
Public Transport is Excellent in the City: İzmir has a very efficient and integrated public transport system. The İzmirim Card is a must-have for using the Metro, the Izban suburban rail, buses, and public ferries.
Izban Train for Long Distances: The Izban train is a great, affordable way to travel from the city center (Alsancak or Basmane) to the Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) and to towns further north or south.
Ferries for the Bay: The public ferries offer a pleasant, scenic way to cross the Gulf of İzmir, connecting piers like Konak, Karşıyaka, and Bostanlı. This is often faster and more enjoyable than driving.
Rental Car for Provincial Travel: A rental car is highly recommended for exploring the wider province, including Ephesus, Alaçatı, Urla, and Pergamon, as public transport connections to these sites can be time-consuming.
Intercity Bus Travel: Turkey has an extensive, modern, and very comfortable bus network (e.g., Kamil Koç, Pamukkale). The main bus terminal (Otogar) in İzmir offers frequent services to all major Turkish cities.
The Aegean Vibe: İzmir is known as one of Turkey’s most liberal, secular, and relaxed cities. It has a strong connection to its Greek and Mediterranean past. Expect a laid-back, Western-facing atmosphere and a focus on seafood and olive oil-based cuisine.
Dining Culture: Lunch is generally from 1 PM to 3 PM, and dinner is enjoyed late, starting around 8 PM or 9 PM, especially in the summer. Don’t be afraid to try a meyhane (traditional Turkish tavern) for rakı, mezes, and music.
Turkish Hospitality and Çay: Turkish people are incredibly hospitable. You will often be offered çay (Turkish tea) in shops or at a local’s home—accepting is a nice gesture and part of the experience.
Pace Yourself in the Bazaar: The Kemeraltı Market is huge and chaotic. Be prepared to haggle politely for non-food items, and take a moment to sit down for a coffee at the beautiful Kızlarağası Han, a historic Ottoman caravanserai.
Summer Heat and Beach Timing: July and August can be very hot. Plan your beach day activities for the early morning or late afternoon. The most popular beaches are on the Çeşme Peninsula (e.g., Ilica, Altinkum).
Hidden Gems:
- Saat Kulesi (Clock Tower) and Konak Pier: The iconic clock tower is the city’s centerpiece. Nearby, the Konak Pier, designed by Gustave Eiffel’s firm, is a great spot for shopping and dining.
- Dario Moreno Street: Tucked away in the historic Asansör (Elevator) district, this charming street is a favourite spot for dining, with a view of the bay after taking the historic elevator up the hill.
- The Ancient Agora: A fascinating, less-crowded Roman marketplace ruin right in the heart of the city, complete with Corinthian columns and underground vaults.
- The Balık Hali (Fish Market) in Karşıyaka: A bustling, authentic spot where you can buy fresh catch and have a nearby restaurant cook it for you for a small fee.
Language: While English is widely spoken in the major tourist areas like Alsancak and Alaçatı, knowing a few Turkish phrases like Merhaba (Hello), Teşekkürler (Thank you), and Güle Güle (Goodbye) will be very appreciated.
Top Restaurants
Adil Müftüoğlu Uğur Lokantası [$15-$30] – A legendary, family-run traditional Turkish esnaf lokantası (tradesmen’s canteen), famous since 1955 for its slow-cooked stews, meat dishes, and pastries cooked in a stone oven.
Tavacı Recep Usta [$25-$45] – Highly-regarded restaurant in Alsancak known for its traditional Southeastern Turkish cuisine, specializing in expertly prepared lamb and beef specialties and various kebabs served on large platters.
Beğendik Abi [$15-$30] – A popular, local favorite for classic Aegean and Turkish home-style cooking, including delicious olive oil-based vegetable dishes, stuffed artichokes, and casseroles.
Ayşa Boşnak Börekçisi [$10-$20] – Located in the Kemeraltı Bazaar, this is a local spot for fresh, traditional Bosnian börek (flaky pastry), sold by weight from a simple buffet, offering authentic, homestyle flavors.
Kasap Fuat [$20-$40] – A well-regarded butcher’s and meat restaurant, favored by locals and noted in the Michelin Guide for its carefully selected and perfectly prepared traditional Turkish meat dishes.
Meşhur Kuyum Pide Salonu [$10-$20] – A classic spot, particularly in the Kemeraltı area, famous for its Turkish pide (flatbread with toppings), cooked in a stone oven.
Cimbomlu Söğüşçü [$10-$15] – A quintessential Izmir street food experience, specializing in söğüş (a cold wrap of finely chopped lamb’s head meat, offal, and vegetables with spices).
Doydum Kokoreç [$10-$15] – Known for one of Izmir’s most famous street foods, kokoreç (spit-roasted lamb intestines), served in a sandwich and seasoned with cumin, chili, and oregano.
Kızlarağası Hanı Elgani Şekercisi [$10-$15] – Located in the historic inn, this spot is not a restaurant but a must-visit for its traditional, house-made almond paste and other local Turkish delights and sweets since 1853.
Zeynel Ergin Gevrek Fırını [$5-$10] – A historical bakery, essential for trying the classic Izmir breakfast pastry boyoz and gevrek (the local, crunchier version of simit), often served with a hard-boiled egg and cheese.
Meşhur Hisarönü Şambalicisi [$5-$10] – A simple, classic spot famous for serving Şambali, a traditional semolina and pistachio dessert soaked in syrup, typical of Izmir.
Tarihi Basmane Lokmacısı [$5-$10] – A long-standing maker of Turkish desserts, specializing in lokma (fried dough with syrup) and other traditional pastries like baklava.
Hisarönü Dönercisi [$10-$20] – A local favorite in Konak/Kemeraltı for a classic, delicious Turkish döner kebab.
Gültekin Usta [$15-$30] – A highly-rated local spot in Alsancak for authentic Turkish cuisine, often with regional specialties.
Aydın Ege Mutfağı [$20-$35] – Focuses on authentic Aegean cuisine, emphasizing fresh, seasonal vegetables cooked in olive oil (zeytinyağlılar) and regional recipes.
Deniz Restoran [$30-$50] – A long-established and popular seafood restaurant on the Kordon, known for its fresh fish and traditional Turkish meze with a beautiful sea view.
Köfteci Ramiz [$15-$25] – While a chain across Turkey, this location is a reliable and local favorite for high-quality, traditional Turkish meatballs (köfte) and grilling.
Bozcaada Restaurant [$25-$45] – Offers fresh seafood and a traditional meyhane (tavern) atmosphere, particularly known for its extensive selection of meze.
Bizim Lokanta [$15-$25] – A classic esnaf lokantası offering a daily rotation of comforting, traditional Turkish dishes, including regional specialties like Ekşili Köfte.
Sedir Aile Çay Bahçesi [$5-$10] – A local tea garden, perfect for a cheap and authentic Turkish tea experience, often paired with simple local snacks, near the Kemeraltı Market.
Narımor [$60-$90] – A chef-driven restaurant (Michelin Selected) located in a boutique hotel in Urla, known for its highly original and sophisticated modern Turkish cuisine with unexpected combinations.
Ristorante Pizzeria Venedik [$30-$50] – A long-standing, Michelin-listed Italian restaurant in the city center known for excellent pizza, pasta, and a cozy Venetian atmosphere, offering a change of pace from traditional Turkish.
Aslında Meyhane [$30-$50] – A modern meyhane offering a creative and contemporary take on regional seafood and the Aegean tradition of Turkish meze in a relaxed setting.
Teras Urla [$40-$70] – Located in the Urla region, often focuses on innovative Mediterranean and Aegean cuisine, utilizing fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients in a stylish setting.
Gula Urla [$40-$60] – A renowned spot in the Urla wine region, known for its creative seafood dishes and Mediterranean-inspired menu, often noted in the Michelin Guide for its quality.
Kordon Yengeç Restaurant [$35-$60] – A trendy seafood and meze restaurant on the Kordon, known for its chic design, fresh fish, and pleasant ambiance with a focus on a modern dining experience.
La Mahzen [$40-$70] – Located in the Urla wine route, offering an international and contemporary menu with a strong focus on utilizing local Urla produce and fine dining techniques.
Scappi [$30-$50] – Offers a modern Mediterranean cuisine experience, with a menu that is often inventive while drawing on local ingredients and flavors.
Mavra [$25-$45] – A popular, non-touristy choice for a more contemporary dining experience, known for its inventive twists on classic Turkish and Mediterranean tapas-style dishes.
Izmir Gourmet & Wine [$35-$60] – Focuses on contemporary cuisine with an emphasis on pairing local Aegean wines with modern Turkish and international dishes.
Smyrna Meyhane [$25-$45] – Offers a modern, refined take on the traditional Turkish meyhane experience, with expertly prepared meze and a lively atmosphere.
Tarihi Asansör Restaurant [$30-$50] – While the historical lift is a must-see, the restaurant at the top offers a modern menu and one of the best panoramic views of Izmir Bay.
Aquarium Mezzes & Grill [$40-$60] – Located in a high-end hotel, offering a modern grill and meze concept with high-quality ingredients and a refined atmosphere.
Ferdi Baba [$40-$60] – Known as a high-quality fish and meze place with several locations, offering a blend of traditional seafood with modern service and presentation.
1881 Meyhane [$30-$50] – A modern, stylish meyhane often featuring live music and a contemporary approach to classic Turkish meze and spirits.
OD Urla [$80+] – A highly acclaimed (Michelin Starred) destination restaurant in Urla, known for its modern Turkish cuisine, tasting menus, and commitment to seasonal, local, and sustainable ingredients in a beautiful garden setting.
TERUAR URLA [$70+] – A celebrated restaurant in the Urla wine region, offering innovative Mediterranean cuisine that is internationally recognized, often emphasizing wine pairings with their creative dishes.
Urla Kekliktepe Restaurant [$60-$90] – Located in a vineyard setting in Urla, this restaurant focuses on a sophisticated blend of Aegean and modern Turkish cuisine, using high-quality local produce.
Urla Vino Locale [$60-$80] – A farm-to-table concept in the Urla wine region, focusing on innovative dishes that utilize their own produce and local products, with an excellent wine list.
Sente Restaurant [$70+] – Offers a modern and ambitious dining experience, often featuring creative tasting menus that blend Turkish flavors with global fine-dining techniques.
Ambrosia Urla [$50-$80] – Located in Urla, it provides a high-end Mediterranean and Aegean dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood and elegant presentation.
Ege Lezzetleri [$50-$70] – Specializes in a refined, elevated version of traditional Aegean cuisine, often showcasing rare local ingredients and advanced cooking techniques.
Balıkçı Hasan [$50-$80] – While rooted in traditional fish and seafood, this spot offers a more upscale experience than most, with premium fresh catches and refined meze in a formal setting.
Niyazi’nin Yeri [$40-$60] – Known for its high-quality seafood and elegant setting, offering a more upmarket and popular choice for a special occasion fish dinner.
232 Restoran [$40-$70] – A modern establishment offering a refined menu, often with international and Turkish fusion dishes, in a stylish, contemporary atmosphere.
Bostanlı Balık Pazarı [$20-$40] – Similar to a market setup, you can buy fresh fish from the stalls and have it cooked on the spot at one of the surrounding simple restaurants—an authentic local experience.
Kirene Restaurant (Alaçatı) [$30-$50] – Located in the charming town of Alaçatı (part of Izmir province), offering a mix of authentic Aegean and Mediterranean cuisine in a picturesque, non-touristy, stone-house setting.
Kapari Bahçe (Alaçatı) [$40-$60] – Another high-quality restaurant in Alaçatı, known for its creative meze and main dishes, often served in a lovely garden setting, emphasizing local, seasonal produce.
İkiçeşmelik Köftecisi [$10-$20] – A simple, old-school shop specializing in the classic Turkish street food of grilled köfte (meatballs), beloved by locals for its authenticity and simple deliciousness.
Midye Dolma Vendors (Various in Konak/Alsancak) [$5-$10] – Not a restaurant, but an essential Izmir street food experience—stuffed mussels with seasoned rice, sold by vendors on the street, eaten on the spot with a squeeze of lemon.
Altın Kapı (Döner) [$15-$25] – Highly recommended local spot for a high-quality, non-touristy Turkish döner kebab.
Göztepe Balık Pişiricisi [$30-$50] – A local fish fry (balık pişiricisi) that is popular with Izmir residents for its fresh and expertly fried or grilled fish, away from the main Kordon tourist stretch.
Buca Adana Urfa Sofrası [$20-$40] – Specializing in the flavors of Southeast Turkey, offering authentic kebabs and grill dishes from the Adana and Urfa regions.
Cızz Bızz Balık evi [$20-$35] – A popular small fish spot within the Kemeraltı Market area, famous for quick, fresh fried fish snacks like sardines, in a very local market setting.
Dostlar Fırını (Alsancak) [$10-$20] – Known for its traditional boyoz varieties (including innovative stuffed ones with eggplant and artichoke), a key local breakfast spot.
Öztat Kardeşler [$5-$10] – A historic bakery known for traditional sweets and pastries, including the local specialty of sticky rosewater doughnuts.
Süt Çiçeği (Kemeraltı) [$10-$20] – A renowned spot for Turkish milk-based desserts like kazandibi and other classic treats, located in the Kemeraltı market.
Balkan Restaurant (Bornova) [$15-$30] – Offers cuisine from the Balkan region (Bosnian, Albanian, etc.), popular among locals and a unique culinary detour from standard Turkish fare.
Vino Dessera (Urla) [$40-$70] – A winery and restaurant in the Urla region offering a menu designed to pair with their estate wines, focusing on local, high-quality ingredients in a beautiful setting.
Kısmet Mutfak (Alaçatı) [$30-$50] – A local, family-run spot in Alaçatı known for its home-cooked meals and authentic Aegean flavors.
Yengeç (Karşıyaka) [$35-$60] – A highly-rated seafood and meyhane known among Izmir residents for excellent quality fish and meze, located on the less touristy side of the bay.
Şişko Midye (Bornova/Buca) [$10-$20] – A simple, non-touristy spot that specializes in midye dolma (stuffed mussels) and midye tava (fried mussels).
Giritli (Bostanlı) [$30-$50] – Specializes in Cretan cuisine, which has a strong presence in the Aegean, with unique olive oil dishes and mezes.
Karataş Balıkçısı [$25-$45] – A less-known but very local favorite seafood restaurant in the historical Karataş neighborhood, offering fresh fish and a great atmosphere.
Tarihi Kemeraltı Lokantası [$15-$25] – A traditional lokanta in the bazaar, known for its delicious, authentic Turkish comfort food and daily specials.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Sky Bar: Located atop the Swissotel Grand Efes in the city center of Konak, this is İzmir’s premier rooftop bar, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Gulf, ideal for enjoying exquisite, often classic, cocktails in a sophisticated atmosphere.
Fayn Cocktails & More: A trendy bar in the heart of Alsancak known for its exciting and creative cocktail menu and a consistently lively atmosphere, perfect for a chic night out.
rePUBlic-izmir: Situated in Alsancak, this vibrant gastropub and restaurant is a popular spot for both drinks and cuisine, offering a stylish setting to enjoy a variety of beers and cocktails.
Breeze Bar: Found within the Mövenpick Hotel in Konak, this bar provides a tranquil setting with stunning city views, where you can unwind with a refreshing drink and appetizers.
La Puerta Alsancak: A popular, hip tavern in Alsancak, known for its intimate courtyard for early evening drinks and its wide variety of international beverages and cocktails in a retro-vintage setting.
Studio House Alsancak: Located in Alsancak, this lively spot offers a selection of unique cocktails and fine wines in a vibrant atmosphere, making it a great place for a pre-club drink.
Nar Pub: Found in the Alsancak area, this spot offers a cool, intimate atmosphere and is praised for its excellent and expertly crafted cocktails.
Vecihi Bar: A popular spot known for its relaxed and cozy setting, featuring comfortable seating and warm lighting, making it a perfect bar in Alsancak for a laid-back evening with friends and a wide selection of drinks.
No 9. Bar & Cafe: Situated in Alsancak, this cafe/bar has an eclectic vibe with vintage décor, inviting patrons to relax and unwind over drinks.
Oc Murphy’s: A premium boutique bar, also in Alsancak, that offers an impressive selection of over 100 whiskeys alongside expertly prepared, delicious cocktails in a cozy and sophisticated environment.
Mentor Bar: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Alsancak at this stylish bar, where the cocktails flow and the atmosphere promises good times.
Shot Bar: Explore İzmir’s vibrant nightlife at this Alsancak spot, where creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable experience.
Panda Cocktail Bar (Çeşme): While located on the Çeşme Peninsula, this bar is known for its beautiful garden, offering a variety of highballs and classic cocktails in a trendy setting perfect for the summer vibe.
Gigi’s Beach (Çeşme): A relaxed beachside spot in the Çeşme area, ideal for enjoying a cocktail with your feet in the sand and a stunning view of the Aegean Sea.
Travelers’ Pub Kordon: Located right on the Kordon waterfront promenade in Alsancak, this pub is a great place to enjoy local flavors and a lively social atmosphere by the sea.
Club En Velo: Located in Alsancak, this is a must-visit for those looking to dance, known for its energetic atmosphere, spacious dance floor, and a mix of cheesy pop and euro-pop classics, catering to a fun-loving older crowd.
İzmir Saşha Club: A high-energy nightclub in the central Konak district, popular among partygoers for its vibrant atmosphere, large dance floor, and top-notch DJs playing a mix of high-energy music.
SoldOut Performance Hall: A premier destination in the heart of İzmir for music aficionados, hosting a broad spectrum of live performances ranging from indie rock bands to renowned DJs, featuring a state-of-the-art sound system.
Ooze Venue: Situated near Bornova Metro, this popular performance hall is known for hosting renowned Turkish musicians and live concerts, offering a large stage and a high-energy environment for music lovers.
Maze Izmir: Found in a lively part of İzmir, this club specializes in electronic and house music, attracting a mix of locals and tourists with its signature light shows and curated DJ line-ups.
Hangout: Strategically located in a lively area with easy public transport access, this club aims to keep its patrons on the dance floor all night with a playlist of top 40 hits, trending pop, and dance numbers.
Tac Mahal Izmir: A unique venue in one of İzmir’s busiest districts, known for its distinctive décor echoing a fusion of Eastern and Western cultures, and a musical blend of Eastern rhythms and Western beats.
Bornova Sahne: A favorite in the Bornova district among the student community, offering a youthful vigor with a roster of both talented DJs and live bands, ranging from electric rock to smooth indie.
Babylon Çeşme: Located on the Çeşme Peninsula, this is a renowned beach club and venue, famous for its infectious energy, top DJs, and parties that keep the dancing going until the early morning.
Volume Alsancak: A club in the Alsancak district, known for its energetic atmosphere and top-notch DJs, making it a must-visit for club-goers seeking a night of non-stop dancing and fun.
Sayanora: Another popular nightlife spot in Alsancak, known for its lively and energetic atmosphere, vibrant decor, and great music, often bustling with crowds.