Izmir Turkey
Country: Turkey · Region: Eastern Mediterranean · Currency: Turkish Lira
Izmir is Turkey's third-largest city and a major Aegean port on the site of ancient Smyrna, offering a blend of Ottoman history, archaeological sites, and modern urban amenities.
Top sights
Konak Square and Clocktower, Smyrna Agora, Kadifekale, Izmir Archaeological Museum, Asansör (Elevator)
Things to do
- Izmir Archaeological Museum
- Displays large collections of Roman finds from Smyrna and other Ionian cities, with a numismatic section of ancient coins and jewellery.
- Smyrna Agora
- Ruins of the Hellenistic and Roman marketplace of ancient Smyrna.
- Kadifekale
- Hilltop fortress rebuilt around 330 BC by Alexander the Great's successors, with medieval walls and Roman cisterns visible.
- Asansör
- Historic 1907 lift constructed by a Jewish businessman, carrying visitors 58 m between waterfront and hilltop with a restaurant at the top offering panoramic city views.
Beaches
- Izmir City Inlet Ferries
- Cheap, fast, and pleasant ferry crossings criss-crossing the city inlet via multiple piers including Alsancak, Karşıyaka, Bostanlı, and Göztepe.
Where to eat
- Alsancak District Cafes and Bars
- Grid of small streets with numerous cafes and bars located in restored Greek houses in the western district near Alsancak Station.
- Asansör Restaurant
- Restaurant at the top of the historic Asansör lift offering bird's-eye views of Izmir.
Bars and nightlife
- Alsancak District Bars
- Multiple bars in restored Greek houses throughout the Alsancak district grid of streets.
Forecast for Izmir
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Weather in Izmir by month
Averages from 2015 to 2024, not a forecast. Within about two weeks of a date, the live forecast above is the one to trust.
| Month | Average high | Average low | Rainfall | Wet days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 53°F | 40°F | 5.4 in | 12 |
| February | 57°F | 42°F | 3.1 in | 9 |
| March | 61°F | 45°F | 3.3 in | 10 |
| April | 70°F | 52°F | 1.8 in | 6 |
| May | 79°F | 59°F | 1.6 in | 6 |
| June | 88°F | 68°F | 1.1 in | 5 |
| July | 96°F | 73°F | 0.1 in | 2 |
| August | 95°F | 74°F | 0.2 in | 2 |
| September | 87°F | 67°F | 0.8 in | 3 |
| October | 76°F | 58°F | 1.5 in | 3 |
| November | 66°F | 51°F | 3.8 in | 8 |
| December | 56°F | 44°F | 3.8 in | 10 |
Getting around
Walk the inner city, use the integrated public transport system (metro, trams, IZBAN trains, and buses) with an İzmirim Kart, or take ferries across the bay.
What to eat
Alsancak district has numerous cafes and bars in restored Greek houses; restaurants and cafes are available at the Asansör at the top of the lift.
Tips
Purchase an İzmirim Kart contactless card for all public transport modes; it's available at the airport, ferry piers, and stations.
Best for
History and archaeology
More ports in Eastern Mediterranean
Alexandria · Istanbul · Kusadasi · Limassol