Located along Turkey’s sparkling Aegean coast, Izmir is a port city where ancient history meets modern Mediterranean charm. There are many things to do in Izmir that a visit to this coastal city should not be missed when exploring this part of the world.

Known for its lively waterfront, colorful markets, and epic day trips, Izmir is one of the most underrated destinations in Turkey – and a perfect base for exploring the country’s western treasures.

Whether you’re wandering the seaside promenade at sunset, tasting authentic Turkish street food, or taking a day trip to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences here. 

In this guide, we’ll cover the best things to do in Izmir, Turkey – from coastal getaways to local favorites. After we’ve gone over what to do in Izmir, at the end of this post I’ll also include any practical Information that will aid you in your trip to Izmir.

Why Visit Izmir

Is Izmir worth visiting? Often overlooked for Istanbul or Cappadocia (understandably), Izmir is one of Turkey’s most authentic and laid-back coastal cities. As Turkey’s third largest city, it’s a place where ancient ruins, seaside charm, and modern culture blend effortlessly.

The city has a colorful history being controlled by many different international powers throughout its life and lots of examples of this can be seen as you explore the city. You can stroll along the Kordon waterfront, sip Turkish coffee, and explore bazaars filled with spices, ceramics. and colorful textiles. 

Not only is this article about the best things to do in Izmir, but it’s about the best day trips from Izmir as Izmir makes the perfect base to explore Ephesus, the village of Şirince, and the beaches of Çeşme and Alaçati.

Add in delicious cuisine, friendly locals, and some of the best sunsets in Turkey, and it’s easy to see why Izmir deserves a spot on your Turkey itinerary if time allows. 

Best Things to do in Izmir

• Konak Square & Izmir Clock Tower
• Hisar Mosque
• Kemeraltı Bazaar
• Synagogue Street (Havra Sokagi)
• Izmir Food Tour
• Kadifekale Castle
• Konak Pier
• Agora of Smyrna
• Free Walking Tour
• Alsancak (Downtown)
• Visit a Museum
• Asansör
• Izmir Teleferik
• Bike the Promenade  – Kordon to Göztepe

Konak Square & Izmir Clock Tower

At the heart of the city lies Konak Square, Izmir’s most famous gathering spot and a must see for first time visitors. The buzzing plaza is a great starting point to start your explorations around the city. 

Marked by the iconic Izmir Clock Tower, this area serves as a common meeting point for travelers and locals alike. The photogenic area will be full of children chasing the pigeons, street vendors selling Simits (Turkish bagels), and visitors snapping pictures.

Around the square, you’ll also find Konak Talı Mosque, Kemeralti Bazaar, and several cafes where you can relax and soak in the city’s atmosphere. The public tram stops at Konak Square so, grab a Turkish tea or coffee and find a spot to sit – it’s one of the best places in Izmir to people watch. 

🎁 Fun Fact:  The Izmir Clock Tower was a present from the German emperor Wilhelm II.

Visit Hisar Mosque

The Hisar Mosque is a historical mosque tucked in a corner of a crowded bazaar. This is the largest and oldest mosque in the city of Izmir and was built over 400 years ago in 1597 out of cut stone.  

You can tell that it’s an older building as all the shops and restaurants just built themselves around this Izmir staple. The interior is quite different from other Ottoman mosques. Step inside to admire the elegant chandeliers, ornate calligraphy, and beautifully painted ceilings.

The Hisar Mosque is open to non-Muslims before and after prayer time. You must take off your shoes and keep your head, knees, and shoulders covered, so it’s always nice to keep a hijab head covering handy.  

You can always buy a hijab in the surrounding bazaar or women can borrow a scarf at the entrance to cover their hair if needed. Even if you’ve seen other mosques in Turkey, Hisar Mosque stands out for its warmth and accessibility.

Explore Kemeralti Bazaar

Just steps away from Hisar Mosque lies the colorful maze of Kemeralti Bazaar, one of the oldest markets in all of Turkey and best things to do in Izmir. Dating back to the 17th century, this bustling labyrinth of narrow alleys is filled with everything from handmade ceramics to spices and Turkish delights.

Shopping for a wedding dress? Have no fear, there are rows of shops dedicated to nothing but wedding dresses. Bring cash, many smaller stalls don’t take cards – and don’t be afraid to bargain politely, it’s part of the fun.

It’s the perfect place to experience Izmir’s local culture firsthand – haggle with shopkeepers, sample traditional snacks and take in the sights and sounds. Don’t miss the hidden courtyards and tea gardens tucked between shops, where you can enjoy a tea and people watch.

Experience the Local Synagogue Street (Havra Sokak)

Located in the heart of Kemeralti Bazaar, Synagogue Street – known as Havra Sokak or Havra Sokagi – is one of Izmir’s most famous streets. The street itself isn’t very long but it does branch out to other streets in the Keramalti.

Here, you can taste the spirit of Mediterranean life. The sounds, smells and colors creates an ambience like none other. This street is pretty easy to find, just head west of the Agora of Smyrna. Walking down Havra Sokagi is what you imagine in your mind traveling through Turkey is like. 

Join an Izmir Food Tour 

One of the best ways to truly experience Izmir is through its food. The city’s Aegean flavors are fresh and deeply tied to its coastal roots. Joining an Izmir food tour is the perfect way to sample the city’s best local dishes while learning about its culinary traditions from a local guide. 

Taste local favorites like boyoz (a flaky pastry unique to Izmir), kumru (a sesame-covered sandwich filled with cheese and sausage), and midye dolma (stuffed mussels served with lemon).

Don’t forget to sip on Turkish tea or coffee, and finish with something sweet – like lokma, deep fried dough balls drenched in syrup, a true Izmir classic or köfte. Taste authentic cuisine and visit some of the best things to do in Izmir. 

Book a Tour →

Climb to Kadifekale Castle 

Perched high above the city – also known as the Velvet Castle – offers the best panoramic views in Izmir. Visiting the Kadifekale Castle is a bit off-the-beaten path compared to most of the things to do in Izmir in this post as it’s not in the prime tourist area.  

Originally built by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC, this ancient fortress has watched over the city for more than two millennia. Today, it’s one of the most impressive historical landmarks in Izmir and a perfect scape from the busy streets below. 

The castle itself isn’t much to look at but the views make it worth a visit and it’s free to enter. It’s especially magical at sunset when the golden light spills across the Aegean.

Visit Konak Pier

f you’re looking for a scenic spot to unwind by the sea, Konak Pier is one of the most beautiful places in Izmir to do just that.

Originally designed in the late 19th century by Gustave Eiffel (yes, the same architect behind the Eiffel Tower!), the pier has transformed into a stylish waterfront destination filled with cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops 

After a morning of exploring a handful of things to do in Izmir, we grabbed a coffee at Starbucks as it had pleasant outdoor seating right on the water.  This was a great spot to take a load off, fuel up on caffeine and watch the seagulls cause a ruckus out on the water.

Explore the Ancient Agora of Smyrna

Step back in time at the Agora of Smyrna, one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Izmir and a window into the city’s ancient past. The Izmir Agora open air museum makes you feel like your in the Roman times.

Dating back to the 4th century BC, this well-preserved Roman marketplace was once the heart of ancient Smyrna – the original city that stood where modern Izmir thrives. 

The ancient Roman agora is located in the Smyrna district of Izmir smack dab in the middle of the city. It cost 50 Turkish Lira per person to enter. Joe and I went to the agora at around 10:30 a.m. and we were the only ones inside.

The complex is quite large and filled with intact Roman pillars and archways. The underground galleries and water channels are especially impressive. A beautiful sight and one of the best things to see in Izmir.

Alsancak (Downtown Izmir)

If you want to experience Izmir’s modern, downtown area, head to Alsancak, the city’s stylish downtown district. This lively neighborhood is packed with trendy coffee shops, boutique shops, art galleries, and some of the best nightlife in town.

Be sure to stroll down Kıbrıs Şehitleri Caddesi, Alsancak’s main pedestrian street – it’s full of energy, color, and great people watching. When you’re ready for a break, the waterfront is just a short walk away. You can easily get here by boat, bus or train.

Free Walking Tour of Izmir

The best way to get to know a city and your bearings is by going on a Free Walking Tour of Izmir. It’s even better when you can do so with a local guide and a group of like-minded travelers. 

The tours usually operate on a “pay-what-you-wish” basis, meaning you can tip your guide whatever you feel the experience was worth. It’s a fun, budget friendly way to get introduced to a city, especially if it’s your first day in town. 

Book a spot in advance online, especially during summer, it’s one of the best free things to do in Izmir. Tours usually last around 2 hours and a local guide will be able to answer any questions that you have.

Book a Walking Tour →

Visit a Museum

Izmir has several museums to visit which is perfect for a rainy day or for the history buff.  Here are some museums worth checking out.

• Archaeological Museum – an impressive collection of ancient and Roman artifacts recovered from area excavations and Izmir’s Agora as well as an exhibit of pottery, ceramics and glass, as well as the fascinating reconstructed 3rd-millennium-B.C. tomb.
• Ethnography Museum – Just across the street from the Archaeological Museum, showcases traditional Turkish life, from regional clothing to folk art and crafts. 
• Key Museum – Collections of cars, model cars and memorabilia.
• Arkas Art Center – Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century French building along the Kordon, this museum has wonderful architect and of course the art.

🏺 Travel Tip: Many museums in Turkey are closed on Mondays – double check opening hours before visiting, and bring cash for entry fees (usually just a few dollars).

Ride the Historical Asansör

One of the most unique things to do in Izmir is ride the Asansör, which literally means “elevator” in Turkish. Built in 1907, this historic lift originally designed to help residents move between two steep neighborhoods. 

Today, it’s one of the city’s most beloved landmarks – and one of the best stops to catch sweeping views over Izmir Bay. The ride to the top of the historic building only takes a minute, but the views from the terrace are epic – especially at sunset.

It’s also free to use. Asansör is a half hour walk from the Konak Pier along the promenade or you can easily get here via the tram. The Karatas quarter is dotted with adorable cafés and shops that give off a fun and inviting vibe.

Take a Ride on the İzmir Teleferik (Cable Car)

For a breathtaking view of Izmir from above, hop on the Izmir Teleferik, the city’s scenic cable car that soars over the hills of Balçova. It’s one of the most relaxing and cheap things to do in Izmir.

The cable cars carry you up to Tırazlı Hill, where you’ll find shaded picnic areas, cafes, and a viewpoint overlooking the city, the Aegean Sea, and the surrounding mountains. It’s a favorite weekend scape for locals, especially around sunset.

At the top, grab a Turkish tea, snack on gözleme (stuffed flatbread), and enjoy the breeze while taking in one of the best views in Izmir. The ride itself only takes about 5-10 minutes each way.

Bike the Promenade  – Kordon to Göztepe

You can’t miss the promenade when exploring Izmir and if you’re up for a challenge you can bike the entire promenade from Kordon to Göztepe. The city’s stunning waterfront path stretches all the way from Alsancak to Göztepe.

The route is flat and well-marked, making it perfect for anyone. Bikes are easy to rent through Bisim, Izmir’s public bike-sharing system, as you can scoop one up that’s parked along the boardwalk. 

These bikes are pretty nifty as you can unlock them with a use of a credit card and leave them at any other station that seems fit along the promenade. Perfect if you want to bike to the end, and catch the public tram back to the Izmir city center.

Best Day Trips from Izmir

• Ephesus
• Pergamon Acropolis
• Adeatepe
• Pamukkale & Hierapolis
• Çeşme and Alaçatı towns
• Şirince
• Urla

One of the best things about visiting Izmir is how easy it is to explore the surrounding region. From ancient ruins to charming villages to turquoise beaches and thermal pools, there are countless day trips from Izmir that show off the beauty and diversity of western Turkey.

You can join an organized tour for a stress-free experience – perfect if you want transportation and a knowledgeable local guide – or rent a car and enjoy the freedom of a self-guided adventure at your own pace.

The roads around Izmir are well-maintained, making it simple (and scenic!) to drive between coastal towns, countryside vineyards, and historic sites. Renting a car in Turkey is extremely affordable and convenient if you want to visit multiple sites in one day.

Rent a Car →

Joe and I rented a car during our time in Izmir and we were glad we did. We were able to visit multiple attractions and being on our own schedule helped us avoid the crowds.

I promise, you won’t be disappointed when you’re strolling around Pergamon and you’re the only ones there. Let’s get into the best day trips from Izmir, starting with the reason most travelers come to Izmir.

The Ancient City of Ephesus 

No trip to Izmir is complete without visiting Ephesus, one of the most famous and best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Ephesus is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Turkey and by far the best day trip from Izmir.

Located just an hour south of Izmir, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was once a thriving Roman port and one of the largest cities in Asia Minor. Walking through Ephesus feels like stepping straight into history. 

You’ll wander down marble streets lined with ancient columns, explore the grand Library of Celsus, stand in awe inside the Great Theater that once held 25,000 spectators, and imagine life in its hay day.

The site is massive so plan at least a few hours to take it all in. Join a guided Ephesus tour from Izmir that includes transport, entrance fees, and a local guide to bring the ruins to life. 

📌 Top Ephesus Tours to check out:

🏛️ Read Next: Ephesus Travel Guide 

Adeatepe

Adeatepe is one of Turkey’s most picturesque and peaceful villages. A amazing hidden gem for a day trip from Izmir. About 3 hours drive north, this beautifully preserved stone village sits on the slopes of Mount Ida (Kaz Daği).

This town in Turkey has been home to Greek villagers for years and is tranquil oasis compared to the loud, hectic city of Izmir. Adeatepe is famous for its traditional stone houses, where some serve as hotels, cobblestone streets, and slow-paced village life.

Pergamon Acropolis

If you love ancient history, mythology, and dramatic views, a day trip to the Pergamon Acropolis (also called Bergama) is an absolute must. Located about 2 hours north of Izmir, Pergamon was once a powerful Ancient Greek city.

Today, its hilltop ruins are among the most preserved archaeological sites in Turkey. The highlight is the Acropolis, perched high on a steep hill overlooking the modern town of Bergama. 

Take the cable car to the top and explore the sprawling ruins. If you’re not driving, several guided tours from Izmir include transportation, entrance fees, and a stop at the Asklepion for a full-day historical experience. 

🎥 Watch the Vlog:  Pergamon Ruins & Urla, Turkey

Pamukkale’s Cotton Castle & the Ancient City of Hierapolis

Few places in the world look as surreal as Pamukkale, also known as the “Cotton Castle” of Turkey. About 3-3.5 hours from Izmir, this natural wonder is famous for its white travertine terraces – formed by mineral rich hot springs cascading down the hillside.

The result is a landscape that looks like snow, but feels warm underfoot. You can walk barefoot along the terraces, soak your feet in the thermal pools, and marvel at the crystal-blue water shimmering agains the bright white limestone. 

Above the terraces sits Hierapolis, an ancient Greco-Roman spa city that once drew visitors seeking healing in its thermal waters. Wander through the well preserved amphitheater, Roman baths, and Necropolis, or take a dip in Cleopatra’s Pool, where you can swim among ancient marble columns.

💦 Read Next:  The Best Things to do in Pamukkale

Çeşme and Alaçatı

Çeşme and Alaçatı are seaside towns and great day trips from Izmir that you can pair together and visit in one day.  Located about an hour away from Izmir.

Alaçatı is known for its beaches, old stone houses and winemaking traditions.  Çesme is a small village that overlooks the harbor.  Çeşme Castle is surrounded by clear waters and is a good diving spot.

Şirince

Şirince is a small local village known for its fruit wine that they make in the area. Located about an hour away from Izmir, this is a great stop to pair with Ephesus if you rent a car and are traveling independently.

The town is as adorable as they come, filled with friendly locals, small shops and wine cellars selling their unique fruit wine. Sampling all the different flavors of wine is highly recommended.

🎥 Watch the Vlog: Sirince, Turkey | Fruit Wine and Friendly Locals

Urla

Urla is another seaside town located about a half hour from Izmir. Known for its wineries and olive oils, this seaside town is a popular vacation spot with the locals.

If you’re looking for a quick escape and a nice seafood dinner, Urla is an obvious choice. Think fine wines, ocean breeze and a chance to experience a small taste of local life.

📍 Travel Tip:  Check out the Usca Winery for a superb wine tasting.

📚 Read Next: Urla, Turkey Travel Guide

Izmir Travel Guides 

Where to Stay in Izmir – The best places to stay in Izmir for all budgets.

How to Get to Izmir – All the ways to get to Istanbul from Izmir – boat, plane, bus, or car.

16 Epic Places to Visit in Turkey – 16 unreal places to add to your Turkey itinerary.

Turkey Travel Tips – 21Essential Things to Know Before You Go.

The Ultimate Guide to Turkey – Traveling Turkey in a nutshell, this is the big guide and goes over everything from the country’s highlights, budget, transportation, housing, etiquette, safety, and much more. 

Izmir Travel Vlogs

Would you rather see what it’s like to explore Izmir instead of just reading about it? Check out our Izmir travel vlogs above to experience the city’s best spots firsthand. 

And if you enjoy the video, don’t And if you enjoy the content, please subscribe to our channel or give the video a thumbs up 👍 – it doesn’t cost you anything, but it really helps us keep creating free, helpful travel guides and vlogs for you to enjoy.

🎥  Watch our Turkey series on YouTube!

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to do in Izmir

From ancient ruins and seaside promenades, Izmir is a city that beautifully blends history, culture, and coastal charm. Unlike the hustle of Istanbul, Izmir offers a more relaxed experience. 

So take your time, soak it all in, and let the rhythm of the Aegean guide you. Come say hi in the comments below 👇.

 Turkey Travel Guides ↓

📍 Planning a trip to Türkiye? Check out my other Turkey travel guides for tips on where to go, how to get around, hotel guides, and the best things to see and do across this incredible country.

Beypazari – Ankara’s Best Day Trip

Best Things to do in Ankara

Best Things to do in Cappadocia 

Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia | Tips to Know Before you Go

Best Things to do in Istanbul 

Enjoy this Post?!?! Pin in for Later ↓