A hidden city bathed in sunshine, a complete guide to eating, drinking, and having fun
As the third largest city in Turkey, Izmir not only has a rich history and culture, but also boasts stunning beaches and delicious cuisine.
This city perfectly blends the modern and the ancient, and every corner is full of surprises. Below, I'll share my Izmir trip, a complete guide to eating, drinking, and having fun. I hope it helps!
1️⃣ Explore ancient ruins and experience the historical context
Izmir has a history of thousands of years. The most worthwhile place to visit is the ancient city of Ephesus, which was once an important city of the Roman Empire. Walking through the ruins, you'll feel like you've traveled back in time, and you'll see ancient theaters, libraries, and other historical relics.
2️⃣ Stroll along Kordon and enjoy the sea breeze and coffee
Kordon is Izmir's most iconic waterfront promenade. You can take a leisurely stroll along the coastline and enjoy the stunning views of the blue sea and sky. I highly recommend stopping by a coffee shop here and ordering a cup of local Turkish coffee while enjoying the sea breeze.
3️⃣ Food recommendations
Turkish cuisine is simply irresistible! In Izmir, you must not miss Kumpir (Turkish baked potato), Baklava (Turkish honey cake), and various seafood. I recommend going to Kemeralti Market, which is a great place to experience authentic Turkish snacks and shopping.
4️⃣ Visit markets and buy souvenirs
At Kemeralti Market, you can find various handicrafts, traditional Turkish jewelry, and carpets as souvenirs. You can choose some to take home as a beautiful memory of this city.
5️⃣ Experience a Turkish bath
When you come to Izmir, you must experience a traditional Turkish bath. This is a local cultural feature that will allow you to completely relax and enjoy a unique physical and mental experience.
6️⃣ The most beautiful sunset
Finally, when you come to Izmir, you must go to the beach near Alsancak to watch the sunset. The glow of the setting sun on the sea is breathtaking. At that moment, all your fatigue will be swept away by the sea breeze.
📍Summary:
Izmir is an inclusive and vibrant city with a rich history, culture, cuisine, and beaches. If you're planning a trip to Turkey, Izmir is definitely a place you can't miss! Pack your bags and come experience the city's endless charm!