İzmir is one of the most rewarding cities in Türkiye to visit: 8,500 years of unbroken settlement, a long stretch of coastline, proximity to Ephesus — one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world — and a cuisine all its own. It is also an easy city to get around, with a network of metro, İZBAN and ferries linking the main points. Stay in Bornova and you reach both the city centre and the routes outside it fastest. Here is a tested route through the İzmir classics, in two days.
Day 1, Morning: Konak Square and the Clock Tower
Begin the day in Konak Square, home to İzmir's emblem, the Clock Tower. Dating from 1901 and surrounded by pigeons, it is the city's most classic photograph. Take a look at the tiles of the elegant Yalı Mosque beside the square too. From Bornova you reach Konak by metro without a change in about half an hour — if you have a car, leaving it at the hotel and taking the metro is far wiser than hunting for a space in Konak.
Day 1, Midday: Kemeraltı Bazaar
From the square, plunge into Kemeraltı, where Ottoman caravanserais, historic synagogues, spice merchants and coffee houses sit side by side. Have a Turkish coffee in the courtyard of Kızlarağası Han, and for lunch try the bazaar's famous traders' restaurants or İzmir köfte. Leaving without a stop for boyoz and gevrek is not permitted. Deep in the bazaar, the Agora brings the commercial square of ancient Smyrna into the present — for a detailed plan see our Kemeraltı guide.
Day 1, Afternoon: The Asansör and Dario Moreno Street
A short journey from Konak brings you to the historic Asansör, built in 1907. Ride the lift up from Dario Moreno Street, lined with brightly painted houses, and the whole bay lies beneath you — this is İzmir's most romantic viewing terrace.
Day 1, Evening: Sunset on the Kordon
Close the day on the Alsancak Kordon. Sitting on the grass and watching the sun set over the bay is the local national sport; afterwards, dinner in the back streets off Kıbrıs Şehitleri Avenue and, if you like, a taste of tavern culture await. Details are in our Alsancak guide.
Day 2: Ephesus and Şirince
Set off early and you will reach the ancient city of Ephesus at Selçuk in about an hour by car. Standing in front of the Library of Celsus is far more affecting than any photograph; with the 25,000-seat Great Theatre and the Terrace Houses, the visit takes three to four hours at an unhurried pace. In summer, water and a hat are essential. On the way back you can stop at the House of the Virgin Mary on Bülbül Mountain.
Spend the afternoon in the village of Şirince, eight kilometres above Selçuk: stone houses, village tables and fruit wines make a sweet pause. Drive back towards İzmir around sunset and you will be in time for dinner in Bornova. For the full programme, our Ephesus and Şirince guide is ready.
If You Have Time: Bonus Stops
The city view from Kadifekale, a walk in Kültürpark, the bay ferry between Konak and Karşıyaka, and the Balçova cable car. With a third day, Çeşme and Alaçatı in summer, or the Urla vineyard route in any season, are the natural extensions.
Where to Stay
The most practical base for this whole route is Bornova, where the metro and motorway connections meet. At MyMahall Hotel you leave your car in the free park, tour the city by metro and take the motorway for the routes outside. Ege University, Forum Bornova and the intercity bus terminal are all minutes away.
For reservations and information: (0232) 461 95 95 — view our rooms in the gallery, or find us on our contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in İzmir?
The city centre (Konak, Kemeraltı, Alsancak, the Asansör) can be covered in one full day. A second day for Ephesus and Şirince and a third for Çeşme or Urla is ideal. Two full days is enough for the main classics.
Do you have to pay to visit İzmir's sights?
The Kordon, Kemeraltı, the Clock Tower and Dario Moreno Street are free. The ancient city of Ephesus, the Agora and the museums require an entrance ticket; check current prices before you go.
Where should I stay for a trip around İzmir?
If you are combining the city with routes outside it such as Ephesus and Çeşme, Bornova — at the junction of the metro and the motorway — is the most balanced location. A hotel with free parking such as MyMahall Hotel is an extra advantage for those travelling by car.
How do you get to Ephesus from İzmir?
It takes about an hour by car on the motorway. Without a car, you can take İZBAN to Selçuk and then a short minibus ride.