Izmir
Izmir is Turkey's third largest city, a busy port (2nd biggest in Turkey), commercial centre and a gateway to the Aegean Region. In spite of its size (population around three million) and importance Izmir still remains to have enough holiday ambience to draw visitors. Holiday resorts such as Cesme, Kusadasi and historical sites such as the Ephesus and Virgin Mary are only 1 hour drive distance to Izmir.
Izmir is a lively and scenic city with palm lined avenues along the Izmir bay, backed by graceful boulevards and attractive terraces rising up the hills of the surrounding mountains. Visitors of Izmir come to see the sights, shop in the colourful bazaar, and dine on delicious meals and seafoods at the many shore restaurants.
Izmir (ancient name Smryna), dates back to around 3000 BC. Today Izmir is mostly modern, after the unfortunate fire in 1922 and because of this had to be rebuilt. However, there is still some worthy sightseeing in Izmir like the 19th century clock tower (Konak Square), the 18th century Konak Mosque, and an archaeology museum. The Antic Agora is an important ancient area to visit in Izmir. The Agora was the largest of its kind in the world. It was established in 333 BC by Alexander the Great on the slopes of Mount Pagos. The excavations and restorations are still continued. A must-see is the Izmir's landmark public elevator, linking Mithatpasa Street with the summit of the hill at Halil Rifat Pasa, from where there is a stunning view across of Izmir and the Izmir bay. One of the best ways to enjoy Izmir is to join the promenaders in the evening air strolling on the esplanade, or jogging along in a horse drawn carriage between Konak Square and Alsancak.
Nightlife in Izmir can be as wild as you wish. Most of the after dark action for visitors is centred on Kordon, Alsancak, Pasaport Pier and Karsiyaka where nightclubs and bars stay open until the early hours of the day. More cultural entertainment in Izmir is on offer too, like performances of the Aegean Phillharmonic Orchestra. Izmir is particularly lively during the annual International Arts Festival, which takes place between June and July, and the carnival-like International Fare towards the end of August.
There are numerous opportunities for excursions out of Izmir. Just a 1 hour drive away to the west of Izmir is the beautiful Cesme Peninsula with its many sandy beaches where visitors can enjoy watersports or take a boat trip along the bays around. Various local operators offer day trips into the surrounding countryside, taking in a variety of interesting destinations from thermal baths and fishing villages to the famous Roman ruins of Ephesus.