Izmir
Overview
On your first trip to the relaxed coastal city of Izmir, take in its Roman history at the old marketplace, Agora. Or wander the leafy boulevards and get the best views of the Bay of Izmir from Kadifekale, the Velvet Castle. Enjoy the lively mix of waterfront seafood restaurants and bars. Come back for Balçova's hot springs and to buy carpets in Kizlaragasi.
Background
Enjoy the coastline of the Gulf of Izmir, where Izmir has been a cosmopolitan, thriving port city since settlers made it their home here over 3000 years ago. Go south of the centre for the fortress of Kadifekale, built in the fourth-century BC on Hellenistic foundations with superb sea vistas. You'll be drawn to historic hub Konak, where you'll find most of Izmir's museums and the early 20th-century Clock Tower, now a symbol of the city. The waterfront around Konak Pier is enjoying a new lease of life since redevelopment in 2004.
First-time visit
Start your sightseeing at the iconic marble Clock Tower, with four small fountains at its base. Nearby, explore the Archaeology Museum with artefacts from the Bayrakli Mound, site of the first settlers in 3000BC. At the old marketplace, Agora, built for Alexander the Great and rebuilt by Romans, explore the vaulted chambers and old tombstones from its days as a Muslim cemetery. Take a quick trip to Kadifekale, the fortress with unbeatable views from its remaining ramparts.
Return visit
Ride up the Asansor, a 19th-century lift in Karataş, the old Jewish quarter, for city views from its rooftop restaurant. Shop for carpets and jewellery in Kizlaragasi, the old Ottoman trading area with a shaded courtyard perfect for a Turkish coffee. At St Polycarp Church, pay your respects to Izmir's patron saint in the city's oldest Roman Catholic church. Fancy a spa? Take a short trip to the hot springs at Balçova for therapeutic healing. Stroll along Konak Pier with its Customs House built by Gustave Eiffel, which is now a shopping mall.
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