Must-Visit Places in Izmir, the Pearl of the Aegean: Top 10 Places

Izmir is one of the modern and beautiful cities in the Aegean Region that attracts both local and foreign tourists with its historical heritage, cuisine, cultural texture and must-visit places. This is why Izmir is generally referred to as the "pearl of the Aegean". 

 

 

 

Izmir is teemed with places to visit, delicacies to taste and memories to collect. The districts of Izmir, which are famous for archaeological ruins, rich-blue sea and natural beauties, also stand out as the most popular tourist destinations. The list of top picks of things to do in Izmir may give ideas to those who want to explore this beautiful city. Let's take a look at the answer to the question "Where to go in Izmir?". So if you are ready, let's start!  

 

 

Izmir

Neighboring Aydin, Manisa and Balikesir and surrounded by the Aegean Sea and the Aegean Islands, Izmir is the 3rd largest city in Türkiye with its population and developed industry. Izmir is not only a tourist attraction that is famous for ancient ruins bearing the traces of Ionian culture, but also a busy business hub.

 

 

The city, which was named Smyrna in the ancient times, ascribes Türkiye a distinctive status with its contemporary, modern and westward-looking stance. Dominated by the Mediterranean climate, Izmir and its districts becomes a popular destination for both local and foreign tourists as the summer arrives. There are ample places to visit in Izmir, the pearl of the Aegean. Let's take a look at our suggestions for must-visit places in this city.

 

 

Kordon  

Kordon, one of the first iconic places that come to mind when it comes to Izmir, is a seafront coastline that is lively especially in the summer. Located in Alsancak district, Kordon is flooded by locals and tourists every summer and witnesses colorful moments. This is why Kordon tops the list of must-visit places in Izmir for everyone visiting the city.

 

 

Kordon, a seafront coastline with wide walking and bike lanes and ample green spaces, also serves as a platform where events, concerts and festivals are held regularly. So, the visitors have the opportunity to enjoy various events. This is where the popular phrase "Let's meet at Kordon" comes from. Kordon is a place where people meet and socialize, take a walk and get fresh air, eat and drink at the cafes and restaurants while watching the rich-blue sea, and enjoy great time.     

 

Kibris Sehitleri Street 

Located in Konak, Izmir, Kibris Şehitleri Street is one of the must-visit places in Izmir that has become a landmark of the city. This street is closed to traffic and lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and bookstores. Often, fun events are held in Kibris Sehitleri Street, the former name of which was "Mesudiye Street".  

 

 

Gazi Kadinlar Street

Gazi Kadinlar Street is a side street in Alsancak that is famous for discos, pubs and karaoke bars. Promising fun time in summer, this street must be included in the list of must-visit places in Izmir. 

 

 

 

Kemeralti Bazaar

Kemeralti Bazaar, which is often included in the list of must-visit places in Izmir, is located in Konak. With a well-established history, this bazaar is also known as one of the most frequented places by people of Izmir. Kemeralti Bazaar, where Turkish handicraft products are sold, is home to cafes, shops and business premises, which make it livelier. When you visit Kemeralti Bazaar, you can also taste Famous Dishes of Aegean Region in various restaurants. 

 

Dario Moreno Street

Dario Moreno Street is located at the entryway to the Historical Elevator, one of the figures that have become a landmark of the city, is one of the places that attract tourists visiting the city the most. The cafes, restaurants and colorful establishments on this street, which is often included in the list of must-visit places in Izmir, reflect the unique energy of the city. Referred to as the favorite street in Izmir, Dario Moreno Street will definitely attract you with its colorful and romantic ambiance.

 

Izmir Clock Tower

Located at the very heart of Izmir and referred to as the prominent landmark of the city, the Clock Tower was built in 1901 to honor the 25^th anniversary of the ascension of Abdulhamid II to the Ottoman throne. Standing 25 meters in height, this historical tower shows the liveliest and most colorful form of Izmir. Izmir Clock Tower, a popular place where people meet, is always included in the list of must-visit historical places in Izmir.

 

Historical Elevator

Historical Elevator is included in the list of must-visit historical places and tourist attractions in Izmir as one of the tourist attractions of the topmost choice. This historical building was sold in 1942, donated to the Metropolitan Municipality of Izmir in 1983, restored in 1985 and re-opened in 1993. Historical Elevator, one of the places that are frequented by both local and foreign tourists, promises moments of pleasure at the restaurants, cafés and observation terrace on the top floor. Overlooking the city, Historic Elevator welcomes visitors 7 days a week from 08.00 to 24.00, free of charge. 

 

Kizlaragasi Hani

Featuring the characteristics of Ottoman architecture, Kizlaragasi Hani is a famous building in Kemeralti Bazaar. Kizlaragasi Han, which has a rectangular layout on an area of approximately four thousand square meters, now serves a touristic bazaar. Here, handicraft products, silver jewelry, carpets, rugs, clothes and souvenirs are sold. You can also take a break to drink tea and coffee. 

 

Kulturpark Izmir

Kulturpark is a popular recreation area to rest your head in Izmir.  In addition to a wide variety of plant and tree species that offer calm and peaceful atmosphere, Kulturpark houses art buildings and sports facilities. Referred to as one of the major places to socialize in the city, it is also famous for Izmir International Fair.

 

 

Atatürk Museum

Ataturk Museum was established in 1941 to honor the visits of Ataturk to Izmir and to carry his legacy to the future generations. The entry to this museum, where personal belongings, photographs and other historical documentation of the Great Leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk are on display, is free. If you ever happen to visit Didim, another fantastic tourist attraction in the Aegean Region, please refer to our article Unforgettable Vacation Experience at the Sea and Bays in Didim as a guide.