3 / 5 - 3 reviews
How to get there
8hrs 30min drive from Istanbul
When to go
May through October
Minimum stay
1 to 2 days
Izmir (Turkey)
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Flickr cc Thomas Depenbusch
Practical information on Izmir
Reviews of Izmir
The country's third largest city, Izmir is a frenetically active port.
My suggestion:
An international art festival is held in June and July and attracts artists from all over the world to Izmir.
My review
Istanbul is about history, Ankara is about power, and Izmir is the rebel, with the creative spirit. The country's third largest town faces the sea and is the center of the its cultural and creative life. A beautiful rebel, for many Turks Izmir is the "tolerant" one, even left-wing. Izmir is proud of its multicultural origins, a heritage that is Greek, Persian, Armenian and Jewish. It has one of the largest student populations in the country and you can feel it: bars, discos, art galleries, and creative venues - the town is always running at 100 miles an hour!
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@flickr cc Thomas Depenbusch
The bay and harbor give Izmir a perfect setting. Situated to the west of Turkey, this town is charming. It's also a good departure point for excursions inland.
My suggestion:
I loved the Kemeralti Bazaar, which is by the central square. It was full of things you can't find elsewhere in Europe and gave me the chance to try some tasty, local treats!
My review
Strategically situated on the Mediterranean coast, surrounded by mountains, Izmir has seen civilizations come and go over the centuries. The city was founded over 8,500 years ago. This has left Izmir, the third largest city in the country, with an impressive historical and cultural heritage.
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Flickr cc Thomas Depenbusch
Izmir is a very pretty seaside resort located approximately 600km south of Istanbul. It's a stop-off point adapted for families and couples, given its amount of tourism.
My suggestion:
To get to Izmir, the easiest way is to catch a plane.
The Turkish roads are not in good condition and journey times from Istanbul are very long.
My review
Izmir is a seaside resort popular among tourists. So don't expect to be in a city which is only full of locals.
Regarding accommodation, you don't need to be constricted by the establishment's number of stars. Indeed, the norms in Turkey aren't the same as in France. You can quickly find yourself in a 8-star hotel which would be considered two in France.
Not to miss: the Kemeralti bazaar in Izmir. A place full of colour and exotic smells. There you will find spices and jewellery but also clothes and other decorative objects.
Next, the nicest beaches are in Çeşme, approximately 80km from Izmir. You can hire deckchairs and parasols on the beaches: it's all at your disposal! However, one piece of advice: take as few personal belongings as possible with you. Indeed, thefts on beaches are common, and spending your holiday with the police station and the French consulate is not fun!
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Dario Morandotti
196 travelers' photos
