Ankara - Izmir Flight Ticket
İzmir is one of Turkey's 81 provinces located in the Aegean Region, known as the "Pearl of the Aegean." In terms of population density, İzmir ranks third in the country. It is one of the leading major cities in Turkey in economic, historical, and socio-cultural aspects. As of 2020, its population was recorded at 4,394,694. In terms of land area, it is the twenty-third largest province in Turkey. Surrounding it are the provinces of Aydın, Balıkesir, and Manisa, and it is bordered by the Aegean Sea and Aegean Islands.
Historically known as Smyrna, İzmir was an important city in ancient times, rich in Ionian culture. Because of this, it has been referred to as "Beautiful İzmir," "la Perle de l'Ionie" (the Pearl of Ionia), and "Old İzmir." The city hosts the İzmir International Fair annually and serves as a significant trade center, attracting thousands of local and foreign tourists each year. Here’s a list of places you can visit in İzmir.
Due to its significant position in the region for thousands of years, İzmir has been a center of trade, thanks to its advantageous port. Various products were brought to İzmir for export via maritime routes. The area known as Kemeraltı became the heart of commerce in İzmir. Although the Historical Kemeraltı Bazaar no longer has international commercial activity, it still maintains its vibrancy. If you find yourself in Kemeraltı, don’t forget to enjoy a cup of coffee at Kızlarağası Han.
Kemeraltı Bazaar is located in the Konak district of İzmir and can be reached by buses, minibuses, trams, metro, or ferries heading towards Konak.
The term Agora is defined as a marketplace, city center, or gathering place. The Agora, a space for offerings to the gods, statues, and monuments, is the heart of trade, art, religion, politics, and the city itself.
Constructed in the 2nd century AD during the Roman period, the İzmir Agora is among the most significant historical sites in İzmir. It is one of the largest and best-preserved agoras that have survived to this day, and artifacts from this historical site are still exhibited at the İzmir Archaeology Museum. İzmir, or Smyrna as it was formerly known, was historically as important as the ancient cities of Ephesus and Pergamon. The easiest way to reach this ancient site is by using the metro; after getting off at the Çankaya station, a 5-minute walk will lead you to Smyrna, and entrance is free.
The Clock Tower, built in 1901 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Sultan Abdulhamid II's accession to the throne at the request of Grand Vizier Mehmet Said Pasha, has become a symbol of İzmir and is one of the first places that comes to mind when considering places to visit in the city. The architect of this tower also designed the German Consulate building. The clock was a gift from German Emperor Wilhelm II and has been running continuously since it was built. To visit the Clock Tower, you can use any means of transportation heading to Konak.
Built by Nesim Levi, a Jewish businessman from İzmir, the Historical Elevator was constructed to facilitate access between Mithat Paşa Street and the Halil Rıfat Paşa neighborhood. Before its construction, reaching the Halil Rıfat Paşa neighborhood required climbing 155 steps.
The Historical Elevator is within walking distance of Konak, but if you’re coming from Karşıyaka, you can take a ferry to Konak Ferry Terminal. After a short walk from the terminal, you'll reach the Elevator. If you prefer the metro, you can get off at the Üç yol station and walk about 15 minutes to reach the site. There’s no fee to access the top of the Elevator.
Kıbrıs Şehitleri Avenue is like the twin of Istiklal Avenue in Istanbul, but with a warmer vibe due to İzmir’s climate. This avenue maintains its energy throughout the year.
It’s a great place to meet friends for coffee, featuring numerous cafes and bars. You can easily reach this avenue via various transport options coming from outside Konak, as it is located in the Alsancak district. Following Bornova Street will lead you directly to the avenue.
If you hear İzmir mentioned in a song, you can almost smell the essence of Kordon Boyu in the background. This iconic spot transforms throughout the day, from the first light of dawn to sunset. Lying on the green lawns of Kordon and gazing at the blue sea is one of life's greatest pleasures. You can enhance this experience by enjoying dinner with the stunning Kordon view. Kordon Boyu is located in the Alsancak district and is easily accessible by bus and metro.
Çeşme is one of İzmir’s, and indeed Turkey's, most popular holiday destinations, attracting celebrities and vacationers every summer. With its beaches, water sports, crystal-clear sea, and the colorful houses and streets of Alaçatı, it is said that spending time in Çeşme extends one’s life. One of the most beautiful beaches in Çeşme, Ilıca Beach, boasts a pristine white sandy shore, making sunset views from this beach a delightful experience.
While İzmir is famous for Çeşme, Alaçatı is renowned in its own right. Walking through the streets of Alaçatı, you might feel as though you've entered a different era. This fairytale-like village is famous for its narrow streets, colorful houses, and the constant scent of the sea. If you find yourself in Alaçatı, be sure to try the famous mastic-flavored pudding.
