How Is Izmir City?
Izmir is Turkey’s third largest city and one of its most relaxed and livable destinations. It combines the energy of a big European-style city with the easygoing spirit of the Mediterranean. Life here is busy, but never stressful; people know how to enjoy good food, good company, and the sea.
With a history of more than 8,500 years, Izmir has hosted many civilizations since antiquity. Today, it is a modern, open-minded city with warm-hearted locals, a sunny climate almost all year round, and a rich mix of cultures. It is also a perfect starting point for exploring some of Turkey’s most famous tourist regions.
When you leave the city center, the most beautiful coastal towns and villages of the Aegean are waiting for you, each with its own character:
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Golden sandy beaches and turquoise sea
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Hidden bays and small coves
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Delicious Aegean cuisine
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Charming boutique hotels
From Izmir, you can easily escape the city and relax in places like Cesme, Alacati, Karaburun, Kusadasi, Foca, Urla, or Dikili. You can also explore world-famous ancient cities and historical sites such as Ephesus, Selcuk, and Bergama (Pergamon).
Izmir Clock Tower & Konak Square
Start your city tour at Konak Square, the heart and main meeting point of Izmir. The square is always lively and within walking distance of many important sights.
In the center of the square stands the Izmir Clock Tower, the symbol of the city. It was built in 1901 as a gift to Sultan Abdulhamid II to celebrate the 25th anniversary of his accession to the throne. The tower is 25 meters high and has four small fountains at its base. The clock mechanism, a gift from German Emperor Wilhelm II, has been working continuously since it was installed.
On the same square, you will also see the charming Konak Yali Mosque, an 18th-century octagonal mosque decorated with beautiful Kütahya tiles. Although small, it is one of the most photogenic mosques in the city.
Where to Visit in Izmir?
At the beginning of the uphill road from Konak Square, you will find two important museums standing side by side in Bahribaba Park, overlooking the Gulf of Izmir:
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Izmir Archaeology Museum
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Izmir Ethnography Museum
The Ethnography Museum is housed in a historical building that once served as a hospital and later as an orphanage for Christian children. Inside, you can see rooms that recreate traditional life in Izmir, including the city’s first pharmacy and demonstrations of how the famous “evil eye” beads are made.
The Archaeology Museum displays artifacts from many ancient cities of the Aegean region, such as Bayrakli (Smyrna), Ephesus, Pergamon, Miletus, Clazomenae, Teos, and Iasos. These collections tell the story of Western Anatolia from prehistoric times to the Roman period. One of the highlights is the statue of Androklos, the legendary founder of Ephesus.
Izmir Archaeology Museum & Ethnography Museum
