IZMIR: ONE OF THE MOST UNDERRATED CITIES IN TURKEY?

Turkey’s Izmir… With more than three millennia of recorded urban history, this fascinating city has an evocative name from classical antiquity: Smyrna. Admit it, the name alone conjures up visions of a bygone era in this Homeric city (no, not the one from The Simpsons) established by the Trojans, with streets fragrant with myrrh. The French poet Victor Hugo, who never actually visited Smyrna, expressed his fascination with the city in his poem “La Captive” from his “Les Orientales” series.To view the poem in English, click this link.

Izmir, the third-largest city in Turkey, is a modern metropolis with a youthful population, a thriving art scene, and a distinct European Mediterranean vibe. It is a fascinating blend of historical legacy and modern metropolis life. Many visitors to Ephesus, regrettably, never make it there because they are unable to recognise its potential. Instead, they frequently arrive in Izmir. We can attest that it is a mistake to skip Izmir when in Turkey. When you read the article below and see everything the city has to offer, you’ll quickly understand why. Indeed, Izmir is among Turkey’s most underappreciated cities without a doubt.

Cocktail Time In Alsancak

IZMIR’S RICH HISTORY IN A NUTSHELL

As we mentioned in the opening, Smyrna has a history that dates back more than 3,000 years. However, the region was populated as early as the Neolithic Period, which indicates that people arrived here 8,500 years ago. It should come as no surprise that Smyrna, with its name used until about 1930 when Izmir began to gain ground, was one of the most important trading cities on the Mediterranean throughout its history due to its advantageous location.

The Iconic Asansör And The View That Comes With It

SMYRNA: OLD & NEW – THE AGORA

All that’s left of Smyrna are the ruins that may be seen from Kadifekale, which offers a view of the city, and the ancient Agora site located in the centre of Izmir. Nevertheless, there remains Old Smyrna, a community situated a little further inland on Mount Yamanlar’s slopes. Around the seventh century, the city continued to grow and developed into one of the twelve Ionian cities. Throughout history, Smyrna was ruled by the Lydians and then the Persians, which resulted in the fall of Old Smyrna in 545 BC.

Climbing Up The Old Fortress Walls At Kadifekale

Kadifekale And A Glimpse Of Izmir Below

Alexander the Great arrived and rebuilt Smyrna on the slopes of Mount Pagos and Kadifekale. Following the demise of Eumenes III, the final monarch of Pergamum, Smyrna became a part of the Roman Empire. When Hadrian and other Roman emperors paid the city a joyful visit, it prospered under Roman authority. At that time, Smyrna was also identified as one of the Seven Churches of Revelation. It continued to be a well-known religious hub during the early Byzantine era, but it never fully recovered from the catastrophic earthquake that occurred in 178 AD. Although the current Agora was constructed following the earthquake with the assistance of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, the old Agora goes back to the Hellenistic Period.

The Beautiful Stoa At Smyrna

The Seljuks took Smyrna in the Middle Ages, and the Byzantine camp—which was then manned by the Knights of St. John—recovered it. However, the Nicaean Empire soon after took control of Smyrna. Nevertheless, the Turks retook power in the early 14th century, but only after agreeing to a 60-year cohabitation with the armies loyal to Pope Clement VI starting in 1344.

After that, the Timurid Empire overthrew Smyrna and slaughtered the great majority of its predominantly Christian populace. This was followed by an era of Ottoman domination. However, the Ottomans took back control in 1415 and held it until 1919, with the exception of a brief Venetian invasion in 1475. Smyrna began to grow extraordinarily in the late 16th century, and it has continued to flourish ever since. Together with traders from other countries and backgrounds, the city also became home to a sizable Jewish community from Spain as well as Dutch, English, French, and Venetian commerce.

The Stoa In Smyrna

Smyrna Agora

Following another, albeit brief, Greek presence in modern-day Turkey from 1919 to 1922, Smyrna’s growth continued, and shortly after that, its name changed to Izmir. Nevertheless, Izmir’s eclectic and international atmosphere persisted, making it a stunning city that should be on your list of places to visit in Turkey.

Checking Out The Stoa From Afar

IZMIR’S QUARTERS EACH HAVE THEIR UNIQUE VIBE

With more over 4 million residents, it’s easy to assume that Izmir is a loud, soulless city. However, this place still feels pleasant and approachable and has charm despite its rapid growth. Like being welcomed in a small village but in an urban environment. Izmir is a location where you can walk from room to room without realising how enormous it is. It has the sensation of a large mansion mixed with a comfortable hamlet. With Izmir, however, the rooms are entire neighbourhoods, and the quaint home has a few contemporary loft-style areas in addition to antiques. The best thing is that public transport makes it simple to get to every location.

The Konak Tramvay, which travels along the coast between Fahrettin Altay and Halkapınar, was our favourite tram route. With the exception of the castle on Kadifekale and, of course, Bostanlı, which is conveniently located across the bay and only a short ferry ride away, you may utilise it to get to practically every place mentioned in this article. But later in this post, I’ll talk more about taking public transport in Izmir.

Pasaport Pier

Although it would be too much to list every neighbourhood in Izmir, we would be happy to give you a tour of the city in order to encourage you to return to Izmir the next time you’re in the vicinity. Everywhere you look, the past and present are entwined, and Izmir’s distinct atmosphere is derived from its diverse historical background. This is a fantastic place for a city vacation that will interest everyone, including history fans, foodies, art enthusiasts, and shoppers. Izmir is a city full of character and many faces. The city is both chic and bohemian, contemporary and steeped in history, and enjoyable during the day and fascinating at night. See it in this article.

THE BUZZ AND HISTORICAL SETTING OF KEMERALTI

The old market area of Izmir is called Kemeraltı, and it is situated between the Agora and Konak Square. Numerous stores, cafes, eateries, and ancient structures, like as the beautiful Kızlarağası Han and numerous mosques and synagogues, can be found in this labyrinth of winding alleyways. Here, in the centre of Izmir, you may get anything from freshly picked vegetables to ideal mementos. You can reasonably presume that Kemeraltı’s stores will carry whatever it is you’re looking for.

Fresh Fish In One Of The Countless Kemeraltı Shops

Live Performance In Kemeraltı

In ancient times, Kızlarağası Han was located directly at Smyrna’s old harbor. Over time, the area silted up, and where there was the sea, there are now more shopping streets.

The entire area covers over 270 hectares of shopping and gourmet pleasure and is one of the largest open-air bazaars in Turkey. In short, you cannot afford to visit Izmir without wandering the streets of Kemeraltı. Try Turkish coffee in the dedicated Kahveler Sokağı, taste delicious Turkish street food, or take a seat for some ‘ev yemekleri’ to experience what a home-cooked meal tastes like. Shop for copper, silver, silk, spices, and herbs or anything else you can think of. This is what Kemeraltı is all about.

Ev Yemekleri, The Way To Go In Izmir! Check Out Abbas’ın Yeri

Lot’s Of Antique And Vintage Shops At The Top Floor Of Kızlarağası Han

KONAK SQUARE & THE FAMOUS CLOCK TOWER

Admittedly, the Clock Tower is one of the images that keep popping up when looking at pictures of Izmir; it has become the symbol of Izmir. Izmir’s Clock Tower was built in 1901 as a tribute to the 25th anniversary of the succession of the throne of Sultan Abdul Hamid II. You’ll find it on Konak Square, amidst flocks of doves who add a bit of dynamic to your selfies.

The Clock Tower In Izmir

Clocktower In Izmir By Night

Now that you’re here take the time to visit the small but magnificent Konak Mosque, located in the same square.

KONAK PIER

Konak Pier, which is close to Konak Square, is reputed to have been designed in 1890 by Gustave Eiffel, who is well-known for the Eiffel Tower that bears his name. Originally a fish market and then a customs facility, it is currently a posh shopping centre. In addition, there’s a movie theatre and a tonne of dining and drinking establishments along the sea, from fancy à la carte restaurants to burger shops and Starbucks. Konak Pier is worth a visit even if you don’t like retail centres because of its impressive architecture.

BOSTANLI, A SHORT FERRY TRIP TO THE SUNSET VIEWPOINT

If you like to enjoy the sunset, you might want to consider going from Konak to Bostanlı by ferry. Though we admit that any justification for a boat ride is acceptable, Bostanlı’s sunset-watching wooden terrace is a lovely example of urban design. It is also well-liked by the Izmirites, based on its popularity. Visit the neighbouring Open Air Museum of Archaeology if you arrive early enough to make the crossing.

IZMIR’S HARBOR DISTRICT: TRENDY ALSANCAK

What’s not to like about Alsancak? This quarter of Izmir features a long promenade, od-era houses, quaint little alleys with quirky bars and restaurants, and an abundant choice of shops, vintage, museums, and other venues. You can easily fill up an entire day in Alsancak, especially if you prefer not to rush things, and you like to soak up the atmosphere.

Typical Alsancak Street

Münire In Hip Alsancak

This part of Izmir seems to come to life even more after sunset when many bars provide worldly entertainment in stylish settings. Still, this place is very much an all-ages area, even after dark. Alsancak seems to have found the perfect balance between hip and trendy and family-oriented.

Alsancak is home to the Saint Polycarp Church, the green Kültürpark, and the Arkas Sanat Merkezi, which houses some of Izmir’s top art exhibits and is housed in the ancient French Honorary Consulate Building. Additional cultural and museum locations in Alsancak are the Zübeyde Hanım Eğitim Gemisi, the Karikatür Müzesi—which offers a humorous perspective—and, of course, the Tarihi Havagazı Fabrikası Kültür Merkezi, which is an abandoned factory that has been transformed into a concert hall.

Tarihi Havagazı Fabrikası Kültür Merkezi

Kültürpark In Izmir, An Oasis Of Green

MORE RECLAIMED BUILDINGS

Izmir’s rich past is visible all around the city, and as buildings age, they take on new uses that result in a charming blend of the old and the modern. One example is the former Alsancak manufacturing site, but Saint Vukolos Church is another exquisite example of a building being repurposed. The Kapılar area’s former Orthodox church is currently used as a venue for performances and cultural events. There is an outbuilding that is now home to the Izmir Press Museum.

Saint Vukolos, Expertly Restored

THE ASANSÖR, ANOTHER IZMIR ICON

Without taking in the views of Izmir from the Asansör, one of its most recognisable monuments, a trip there isn’t complete. This 1907 lift is located in Izmir’s Karataş neighbourhood. Constructed by a wealthy Jewish financier, it facilitates easier access to the precipitous cliff upon which the residences are perched. Almost as charming as the lift itself is the little street underneath it. It’s named for the musician Dario Moreno, who once fell in love there, and it’s filled with eccentric restaurants and cafés. There is a fine-dining restaurant at the summit of Izmir’s Asansör if you enjoy dining outside.

The Iconic Asansör In Izmir

USING PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN IZMIR & OTHER PRACTICALITIES

The most practical way to get around Izmir is to take advantage of its first-rate public transit system. Invest in an Izmirim Kart if you want to save money and enjoy ease. The Izmirim Kart is the ideal method to transfer from one bus or tram to the next, much like the Istanbul Kart. If you intend to visit that area of the city, you can even use it on the cable car and ferries. Although their website is only presently available in Turkish, it is fairly simple to navigate with a little assistance from Google Chrome.

Where may Izmirim Karts be purchased? The entire city is filled with sales locations. The simplest option is to go to one of the bigger terminals, like the one at Konak Square, where you can purchase one at the counter or from the vending machines. To ensure that it is ready to use right away, make sure to load some more TL on it right away. After that, all you have to do is swipe the card to gain entry into a ferry or other public transportation vehicle, and you’re set to go. You can use the Izmirim Kart to board the open tourist bus that provides a guided tour of the city.

It should be noted that although the Izmir tram lines now use a different website, your Izmirim Kart remains valid!

The Promenade Seen From Konak Pier

Of course, the tour of Izmir we took you on in this article only scratched the surface of what Izmir has to offer as a destination. Consider it an appetizer. You’ll find more places of interest on this touristic map of Izmir (scroll down for English). We would suggest adding the Archaeology Museum to your list, as well as the ethnography Museum, and the Museum of Art & History at the Kültür Park, just to name a few.

• Sığacık: the Cittaslow alternative for Alaçatı
• Teos: century-old olive trees, an antique harbor, and Dionysus