POPULATION 

  4.484.366

 

 

CURRENCY 

 TURKISH LIRA (₺)

 

 TIMEZONE

GMT +3:00

 

 LANGUAGE

TURKISH

 

 WEATHER

AUGUST 27ºC / JANUARY 8ºC

 

AIRPORTS

Adnan Menderes International Airport

HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE OF IZMIR

Izmir is one of the oldest settlements in the Mediterranean and was founded by Greek colonists in 1,000 B.C., known as Smyrna in ancient times. The city has evolved and gained importance over time, passing through the hands of different civilizations and empires such as the Lydians, Greeks, and Romans. In the 2nd century AD, Smyrna became one of the significant cities of that era. However, after falling into the hands of the Byzantine Empire, the city lost its significance due to the focus on Constantinople. In 1076, the Seljuk Turks captured Izmir, utilizing it for maritime operations. After being returned to the Byzantine Empire, the city was once again taken by the Turks in the 14th century. The Ottomans conquered the city for the first time in 1389 during the reign of Sultan Mehmed I. However, the city suffered significant destruction during the attack by Timur and the losses during the Battle of Ankara. Sultan Mehmed I recaptured Izmir in 1415. Izmir experienced substantial growth in the 16th century, becoming an essential trade center in the Ottoman Empire, mainly due to the production of cotton and other goods. Despite facing events following World War I, the city recovered after the defeat of the Greeks in 1922. A week-long fire destroyed a considerable part of the city, but Muslim and Jewish neighborhoods remained intact. Despite numerous invasions and disasters throughout its historical journey, Izmir continues to maintain its significance as the third most populous city in Turkey today.

 

 

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ANCIENT HISTORY: The Enchanting Past of Izmir

Many Turks and foreigners prefer to visit Izmir, and the deep ancient history of Izmir is at the core of their choices. Izmir hosts many remnants from the oldest civilizations, providing significant clues about the history and life of the human race. Especially ancient cities like Ephesus impress visitors to Izmir, offering an excellent experience for those who want to learn more about ancient civilizations.

 
 

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT IZMIR

Izmir is a destination preferably visited during the summer season. The city has a Mediterranean climate throughout the year. Spring, especially the months of September, is an excellent time to enjoy milder temperatures and gentle breezes. However, autumn is not an ideal period for visiting historical sites due to heavy rainfall. Therefore, the most suitable times to visit Izmir are generally during the summer months. If extremely hot weather is not preferable, the middle to the end of spring or the beginning of autumn can also be considered.

 

TRANSPORTATION TO IZMIR

Transportation to Izmir is quite convenient from Adnan Menderes International Airport, located just 15 kilometers away. Havaş buses, specifically serving airport visitors, operate hourly and take approximately one hour to reach the city center. For comfortable and fast transportation within the city, you can prefer the metro. Alternatively, by taking bus number 202, you can easily reach the Konak district, where many historical landmarks are located. Buses continue to operate after midnight, providing transportation convenience for visitors. 

 

IZMIR CLOCK TOWER

The Izmir Clock Tower is situated in a magnificent location at the central Konak Square in Izmir. Designed by French architect Raymond Charles Père and completed in 1901, this architectural masterpiece was actually a gift from the German Emperor II. Wilhelm. Inspired by Ottoman architectural style, the clock tower creates a unique synthesis with the touch of the French architect. This aesthetic convergence contributes significantly to the history and cultural richness of Izmir.

 

THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO VISIT

       


WHAT TO EAT IN IZMIR

boyoz
 

 

BOYOZ

Boyoz is a delightful pastry commonly preferred during breakfast. Especially popular in Izmir, this flavor is often served with boiled eggs. People in Izmir can enjoy a satisfying breakfast experience by deviating from the traditional Turkish breakfast and indulging in just boyoz, eggs, and Turkish tea. You can step into a unique breakfast experience by trying this exceptional taste in Izmir.

 


 

lokma
 


 

LOKMA

Lokma is one of the unforgettable desserts of Izmir. Made by frying the dough and then dipping it in a syrup prepared with water and sugar, this dessert, although seemingly simple, requires skill to perfect. Izmir is the ideal place to try this magnificent sweet, especially for dessert enthusiasts. Lokma, one of Izmir's street flavors, symbolizes the city's sweet culture.

 

kumru
 

KUMRU

Kumru is a sandwich specific to Izmir. Despite its name literally meaning "dove," there is no pigeon meat in its content. The name Kumru is derived from the sandwich's shape resembling a dove. A typical Kumru sandwich includes salami, sucuk (Turkish sausage), kasar cheese, tomatoes, peppers, tulum cheese, mayonnaise, and ketchup between slices of bread. However, you can customize the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. This delicious sandwich is known as one of Izmir's street flavors and can be tailored to suit your taste with various ingredient combinations. This snack, unique to Izmir, is an ideal choice to satisfy cravings for the city's street flavors.

 

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ŞEVKETİ BOSTAN

Şevketi Bostan is a plant native to Izmir and specific to this region. Dishes prepared with this plant have various recipes, some including meat and others being vegetarian. If you're looking to discover a new flavor, you should definitely try these special recipes made with Şevketi Bostan. This taste, belonging to Izmir's unique cuisine, is a wonderful opportunity to explore the gastronomic richness of the region.

 


 


izmir_tulumu
 


 

IZMIR TULUMU

İzmir Tulumu is a delicious type of cheese specific to Izmir. This unique flavor is known for being derived only from high-quality sheep's milk. Also known as "shepherd's cheese," İzmir Tulumu provides a natural and traditional cheese experience.

 


 HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD YOU SPEND IN IZMIR?

If you want to witness the deep history, explore historical landmarks, and discover the natural beauty of Izmir, we recommend dedicating at least a week. During this period, you can obtain a rich experience. If you have a more limited timeframe, you can still visit and see the most important places within 3 to 5 days. By exploring the main attractions of Izmir during this time, you can create unforgettable memories. The number of days you spend in Izmir depends on your personal preferences and the places you want to visit. Planning your trip in detail will help you make the most of your time in Izmir. Engaging with other travelers on forums can also be beneficial.

 

 

IZMIR NEW
 

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