Izmir is a city located on Turkey’s Aegean coast. It was once known as Smyrna in ancient times, founded by the Greeks, taken over by the Romans, and later rebuilt by Alexander the Great before joining the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. Today, the city has many historical sites, including the Roman Agora of Smyrna, now an open-air museum. The hilltop Kadifekale, or Velvet Castle, built during Alexander’s rule, offers a view of the city. The Kemeraltı district is home to historical landmarks like the Hisar Mosque and the Kızlarağası Han, a restored market. Konak Square and its marble clock tower are popular attractions, and the nearby Kordon waterfront has cafes and bars where people gather. The area also features a customs house, now an upscale mall, and religious sites like synagogues and the Church of St. Polycarp.
places to visit in Izmir
Asansör
Asansör is a historic building in the Karataş neighborhood of İzmir. It was built in 1907 by Nesim Levi Bayraklıoğlu, a wealthy Jewish banker. The purpose of the building was to help people and goods move between the narrow coastline of Karataş and the hillside. The elevator inside the building makes it easier to pass through the steep cliff. It served both as a practical tool and a public service for the people of the area.
İzmir Clock Tower
İzmir Clock Tower is a famous landmark located at Konak Square. Built in 1901, it is made from marble and stone with Ottoman symbols on each side. The tower has a bell on the fourth floor, supported by twelve columns. It stands as one of the most recognized structures in the city and marks the central point of İzmir.
Kadifekale
Kadifekale is a hilltop castle in İzmir, built in the 3rd century BC. It offers stunning views of the city, coastline, and the Gulf of İzmir. The castle was later renovated during Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman times. Nearby, visitors can explore the ruins of Roman-era cisterns that were restored in later periods, adding to the historical significance of the site.
Agora Open Air Museum
The Agora Open Air Museum is located on the northern side of İzmir. Built in the 4th century BC, it served as the city’s State Agora, surrounded by important public buildings. The museum showcases historical relics, including the portrait of Faustina, wife of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, on the arch of the West Gate. The site also contains Roman-era graffiti, considered one of the largest collections of Greek graffiti in the world, offering insight into daily life during the Hellenistic and Roman periods.
Mount Sipylus
Mount Sipylus, also known as Mount Spil, is a mountain in Manisa Province, near İzmir. It is rich in legends and history and offers beautiful views of İzmir and Manisa. The mountain is surrounded by forests and is known for its wild tulips. It is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and parachuting, attracting both nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Key Museum
The Key Museum, located outside İzmir, is Turkey’s largest auto and motorcycle museum. The museum features over 170 models, including the first cars produced by famous brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Ford. The collection also includes notable items like the original Batmobile from the first Batman movie and the Stutz car that belonged to Elvis Presley. It is an exciting visit for both car enthusiasts and general visitors.
Konak Square
Konak Square is a busy and popular location in İzmir, situated at the southern end of Atatürk Avenue. The square is home to important buildings such as the İzmir City Hall and the Governorate of İzmir Province. At the center stands the İzmir Clock Tower, which is a historical landmark built in 1901. The square also hosts the Cultural Centre of Ege University, which includes an opera house and a modern art museum, making it a cultural hub in the city.
Yalı Mosque
Yalı Mosque, also known as Konak Mosque, is located in Konak Square next to the İzmir Clock Tower. It is known for its unique octagonal shape and beautiful tilework. Built in 1755 under the patronage of Ayşe Hanım, the wife of a prominent official, the mosque is a significant landmark in the city. It stands out for its architectural style and its role in the city’s cultural and religious life.
Belkahve
Belkahve is a mountain pass that connects İzmir to the inland areas of Turkey. It offers a breathtaking view of İzmir and the Aegean Sea, making it a scenic spot for visitors. During the Turkish War of Independence, Belkahve was an important location where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and his nationalists watched İzmir on September 8–9, 1922, after it was liberated. A monument has been built at this site to commemorate this historic moment.
Hisar Mosque
Hisar Mosque, also known as Hisarönü Mosque, is one of the largest mosques in İzmir. Built between 1592 and 1598 by Aydınoğlu Yakup Bey, it is known for its stunning Ottoman Islamic artwork. The mosque’s interior is renowned for its intricate designs, making it a remarkable example of Ottoman architecture. It is located in the heart of İzmir and continues to be a key religious site for locals and visitors alike.
Best time to visit Izmir
The best time to visit Izmir is between June and August when the weather is warm and enjoyable. This period offers great conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The sunny days make it perfect for exploring the city.
