Cindy and I are very excited to be visiting Turkey, looking forward to the history, new flavors, culture, local markets, bazaars, and people. In February, we start our adventure in Izmir with a seven-day stay. The weather is not hot, but the tourist crowd will not be a factor either. We intend to discover and explore Izmir, a port city found on the Agean sea. “Izmir A Guide To Discover Some Of Its Secrets” will be informative and suggest points of interest to go visit and explore.
We plan to spend two months in Turkey with an itinerary visiting the following other locations: Kuşadası, Pamukkale, Fethiye, Antalya, Göreme, and lastly, Istanbul. Each of these cities has its unique historical moments that tell a story and local markets and bazaars to explore. Plus offering modern-day adventures such as balloon rides, paragliding, and water activities such as diving. So without further ado, let’s discover Izmir’s secrets.
Izmir A Brief History
Izmir is one of the oldest cities with nearly 4,000 years of recorded history. They were founded in the 11th-century BC by the Aeolians, a Greek people. It is one of the oldest settlements on the Mediterranean. By 1500 BC, the ancient Hittite Empire ruled the region. Then the Lydian and Persian Empires then took it over. After which, it enjoyed an age of prosperity under the Roman Empire around 133 BC.
During the 4th century AD, Izmir was part of the Byzantine Empire. The 11th to the 15th century was ruled alternately by the Byzantines and the Turks. In 1402 Izmir was ravaged by the Mongols. In the early 14th century, the Ottomans captured Izmir before becoming an international port city in the 16th century. Nowadays, the ruins of these ancient empires can be found scattered among modern Izmir.
Agora of Smyrna (Izmir) (map)
Ancient Smyrna was founded in approximately the 11th century BC. First as an Aeolian settlement and later taken over and developed during the Archaic Period by the Ionians. Smyrna was the new city to which residents moved to in the 4th century BC; it was inspired by Alexander the Great. Smyrna’s Agora was ruined in an earthquake in 178 AD but rebuilt by Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius. The reconstructed Corinthian columns and Faustina Gate are eye-catching. But the vaulted chambers and cisterns in the basements of the two basilicas are even more impressive. This gives visitors a good idea of how this rectangular-shaped, multilevel marketplace would have looked in its heyday. Archaeological diggings are still underway. It was located within the city of Izmir.
The ancient Agora (ancient market) of Izmir is easy to find; we walked there from our Airbnb, three kilometers away. We enjoy the sights and sounds walking through the neighborhoods as you never know if you will find a market or a bazaar. Some signs direct you to the Agora entrance when you get near the Agora. Arriving at the Agora around noon, we paid the 25-Lira entrance fee, then off to discover this ancient ruin. A large part of the site is closed to the public because excavations and restorations are still in progress.
The magical part of visiting the Agora was seeing and wandering the floor below the level of the old basilica. Here you can see the water channels built by the Romans, which are still in operation. We found this level to be unique, with the archways and the principal foundations constructed to support the upper level of the basilica. Walking in this area, we found many picture-worthy stone structures in excellent condition. Looking at this stonework makes you wonder how all this could have been built. The sheer size and complexity of it all will blow your mind. I’m always amazed when I see sights like this, the engineering and determination it took to accomplish such feats.
Konak Square (map)
A guide Izmirs’s Konak Square what to see and where it is. The first thing you will notice in Konak Square is the Izmir Clock Tower. Built-in 1901, at the height of 25 meters, it has four floors and is shaped in an octagonal. The Clock Tower is decorated in elaborate Ottoman architecture and is considered the prominent landmark of the city.
Konak Square appears to be a gathering place; families can be seen walking with children. Near the tower, hawkers sell balloons to the kids or birdseed to feed the many pigeons. The small kids seem to have fun running after the birds after they land to feed. A great sport, I’m sure, if you are a child.
Street performers can also be seen in this area; we ran across a mime all painted in silver and dressed as a Turkish swordsman, impressive to see. Nearby we saw a couple of musicians singing and playing instruments which had the crowd joyfully dancing along. This enjoyment felt by the people is what makes travel all worthwhile, the experience.
Konak Square is located just below one of many entrances into the bazaar. If in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the bazaar. These are an experience like no other.
Karatas Hosgor Hamam (Bath) (map)
We visited Karatas Hosgor Hamami, a Turkish bath not far from our accommodations. This particular Hamam is over two hundred years old, not much to look at from the outside. But the inside was nice, having separate lockable changerooms. Here you strip down to your underwear and wrap a towel around yourself before heading into the main room. There is a steam room where you can sit before heading into the main bath area. The central bath area ceiling is domed with small, round, colored glass windows. You can imagine this same bath process enjoyed hundreds or thousands of years ago—the joys of history.
Once inside the 200 year+ marble bathroom, you hang up your towel and sit on the marble bench. Here you find taps hot and cold that fill a beautiful marble bowl. Inside the bowl, you use a plastic bowl to pour water over yourself until it’s your turn to be scrubbed down.
In the middle of the bathroom is a large marble slab. Here you lay down on your back or front depending, and the vigorous scrub begins. After scrubbing your body, they rinse and lather you with a very soft soap inside a towel, then proceed to wash you down. A final rinse and you are all set; the experience was enjoyable but not completely relaxing as they are enthusiastic about the scrub. It’s too bad one couldn’t take some pictures of the inside. I should have asked as I was the only one there at the beginning.
This particular bathhouse does not have two separate rooms for the bath, so time slots are used to accommodate the two sexes. The times noted above in blue in the photograph are for the men, and red is for the ladies. Be sure to add a little extra time at the intervals between the sex time slot changes. I walked in while there were women still inside (nothing seen) to many loud Turkish commands. It didn’t take long to realize, a quick about-face, and I was outside again.
The cost of this unique Turkish experience was 100 TL, well worth the experience; you can add an oil massage which my wife opted for when she went earlier in the day. Cindy’s feedback on this was that it was not worth the extra cost as it did not last that long, but it did leave her skin feeling soft. We recommend given the opportunity that this is something that you should definitely try, we think that it is worth visiting a least once.
Bazaar district – Keremalti Market (map)
The bazaar is a labyrinthine stretching from Konak Sq through to the ancient Agora, Kemeraltı dates back to the 17th century and is home to many shops from, eateries, artisans’ workshops, mosques, coffeehouses, tea gardens, and synagogues. Spending a day or two exploring its crowded and colorful streets can be exciting or at times overwhelming, as it is easy to get lost or turned around. Losing your way and coming across unexpected treasures is part of the bazaar’s attraction. Look for the Kızlarağası Hanı, built-in 1744, an Ottoman bedesten (warehouse), now it has many shops inside its massive walls, street performs can be found in front entertaining the passers-by. Take the time to stop and enjoy.
We visited this market bazaar several times while we were in Izmir, finding several places to eat that served authentic Turkish food. Trying local dishes like our new favorite Midye dolma (stuffed steamed mussels). It is amazing the shops that can be found here, selling everything under the sun. We do not buy much as we travel light with backpacks so there is no room. We still like to look for spices as we both like to cook and enjoy all kinds of flavors. My sister on the other hand, well she likes her stuff and purchases gifts for others as well. She had fun but did not overdo it.
We were invited to a leather shop to see the process etc. Well, the salesman latched onto my sister and tried his damndest to sell her a leather jacket. I must admit at the start I was having fun poking the bear, he even provided us with a nice apple tea, which we enjoyed. In the end, common sense prevailed and we walked out with nothing, I don’t think that he was too happy but life goes on. I’m sure he’ll find someone else to purchase one of his leathers.
It does pay to have some willpower as these guys are good at their job. A little entertainment.
İzmir Tarihi Asansör (Elevator) Binası (map)
Tarihi Asansör (elevator) is a historical building found in the district of Konak. Built in 1907 for the area’s people to provide easy access to the top for the elderly and women by a wealthy Jewish banker and trader of that time. The elevator is open to visitors between 08:00 in the morning and midnight, at no cost. The height between these two streets is 58 meters. There is a 155-step staircase connecting the streets. Taking the elevator is a nice change of pace from walking up the steps as there are lots, and after a while, they become exhausting.
The lower street leading up to the elevator has many restaurants along its length that serve Turkish food that is amazing in flavor. At the top of the elevator, you will find another restaurant that has a nice view overlooking the city.
Kadifekale (map)
Kadifekale is a hilltop castle in İzmir, Turkey. The castle is located on Mount Pagos, which has an elevation of 186 meters. Built-in the 3rd century BC. The castle provides a fantastic view of the city of İzmir.
I’ll be honest; not much to see; we visited took some pics of the still-standing walls. On a clear day, the view would be nice. We walked up to visit, so the hike itself was invigorating, plus I found a barber near the entrance, so I got my head and face shaved for 70 Lira.
Izmir A Guide To Our Experiences
Izmir, a guide to our experiences, is meant to let you, the reader, focus on some of the special moments we experienced while visiting Izmir. The first story is my sister was joining us in Izmir and that we were to meet up at the airport at the baggage claim, and my sister was arriving earlier and would wait for us as we were arriving 1 hour later at 9:45 pm. At the baggage claim, my sister was nowhere to be found. Free wifi was not available unless you had a Turkish phone number, which made the search that much more difficult.
After exhausting our resources, we headed to our Airbnb without her; she had our host’s address and phone number, so we hoped it would work out sooner than later. Well, at one in the morning, guess who shows up? It turns out that she arrived at the international side of the airport and us at the domestic. Long story short, make sure you have flight numbers and as much information as you can. Then don’t panic; it will work itself out.
On our second day in Izmir, we were off to find a Turkish sim card for our phone as this was the start of our trip, and we would be in Turkey for two months. After getting the sim card, it was off to find a bite to eat. We settled on this fish market kind of thing and enjoyed a couple of plates of some of the best calamari that we have ever had. Just in front of the entrance, a gentleman was selling a reddish paste called Çiğ köfte that is served with lettuce, greens, and some lemon. We asked the gentleman selling this if we could sample one to try; I love to try different foods.
After obliging our request, he asked in his broken English where we were from, Canada we replied. With that, we found a new friend. It appears that his son lives in Canada. He brought us all a Turkish tea, and we talked as best we could, him showing us pictures of the family. We enjoy the experience of being excepted, if only for a short period of time. We went to that same restaurant several days later. He recognized us and provided us with more of his Çiğ köfte to enjoy with our dinner; the flavors of Turkish food are incredible. I sought him out after our meal and tried to pay. He would not hear of it; we thanked him for his generosity and for taking the time to accept us as friends if for only a moment. The unexpected joys of travel.
Street Art
You never know where you find it but take the time to look for it. Street art tells a story so take the time to look and appreciate what they are trying to say. The art is free and can be a window into the soul of the neighborhood, city, or country. We found these while just wandering around the streets.
Izmir Guide to Turkish Food and Flavors
Since Izmir is our first stop in Turkey, we delight in experiencing many new flavors and Turkish foods found in the local markets or the bazaars. Cindy and I believe food and its many flavors are never to be passed by or taken for granted as they are essential to the whole travel experience. Since most of our stops in Turkey will be along the coast, I’m sure seafood will play a large part in these flavors. Can’t wait to purchase at these local markets. One of our favorite Turkish foods already is Midye dolma; this is a mussel stuffed with spiced rice, delicious indeed.
Our Airbnb Accomodations
While in Izmir we stayed in an Airbnb for the week that we were there. Entire rental unit hosted by Gülşah was the name of our Airbnb, our host was extremely helpful. Gülşah even picked us up at the airport for a small fee when we arrived in Izmir and went out of her way to help us when we couldn’t find my sister at the airport. Gülşah had many suggestions on where to eat or visit and helped in any way she could, very responsive to questions or requests. We would recommend staying here if you are Konak, the apartment is close to most everything.
Chronological Timeline Of Turkey
| Paleolithic Age (Early Stone Age) 60,000 – 10,000 BCE | Mesolithic Age (Mid Stone Age) 10,000 – 8,500 BCE |
| Neolithic Age (Late Stone Age) 8,500 – 5,000 BCE | Chalcolithic Age (Copper Age) 5,000 – 3,000 BCE |
| Bronze Age 3,000 – 2,000 BCE | Hatti and Hurrian Civilization 2,500 – 2,000 BCE |
| Troy – II Settlement 2,500 – 2,000 BCE | Hatti and Hittite Principalities Period 2,000 – 1,750 BCE |
| Great Hittite Kingdom Hurri Civilization 1,750 – 1,200 BCE | Troy – VI Civilization 1,800 – 1,275 BCE |
| Aegean Migration and Invasion From Balkans 1,200 BCE | The Anatolian Principalities during the Iron Age 1,200 – 700 BCE |
| Urartu Civilization 900 – 600 BCE | The Civilization of Phrygia 750 – 300 BCE |
| Lydia, Caria and Lycia Civilizations 700 – 300 BCE | Ionian Civilization 1,050 – 300 BCE |
| Persian Conquest 545 – 333 BCE | Hellenistic And Roman Age 333 BCE – 395 |
| The Byzantine Civilization (Eastern Roman Empire) 330 – 1453 | The Seljuk Empire 1071 – 1300 |
| The Ottoman Empire 1299 – 1923 | The Republic of Turkey Since 1923 |
How To Apply For Turkey eVisa
The Electronic Visa (e-Visa) Application System allows visitors traveling to Türkiye to quickly obtain their e-Visas online (www.evisa.gov.tr) in approximately three minutes. It is possible to obtain e-Visa 7/24 everywhere with an internet connection. The applicants can obtain their visa after filling in the necessary information concerning their identity, passport, and travel dates and paying the visa fees online. It truly is that easy; We would recommend having a printed copy as well, just because.
Apply for your HES Code (Covid)
All passengers who intend to enter Turkey after March 14th, 2021, must fill Turkey Traveler Entry Form 72 hours prior to departure. A private HES code will be created automatically by the given information for each visitor to contain the spread of Coronavirus.
Our Final Thoughts “Izmir A Guide To Discover Some Of Its Secrets”
- We really enjoy our stay in Izmir, after almost loosing my sister at the airport. Most if not all our time in Izmir was spent in the district of Konak. Lots of local markets and bazaars to enjoy, regional food, plentyful and inexpensive. The ruins of Agora of Smyrna extremely amazing as you were able to see the sub struture that included many arches and large columns. We had good weather for our week stay. Izmir is not known as a tourist destination they say but we enjoyed it.
Our Positives
- Izmir is a nice seaside city modern in parts of the city but has an historical district that is wonderful to visit.
- Don’t miss the ancient ruins Agora of Smyrna
- Visit the local markets and bazaars to get a taste of what life has to offer, many things to purchase and foods to try
- Visit a turkish bath, we found the experience to be pleasent and inexpensive
- People are friendly and helpful so step out of your comfort zone and meet the locals
- Izmir built on a hillside so there a lot of stairs, good exercise but a lot of work.
Our Negatives
- We have no negatives, we would recommend visiting to anybody. You probaly don’t need a week just depends on your time.
Would have, Could have, Should have
- I do not think that there is anything we would change about our trip to Izmir.
Next Stop
Cindy and I, plus little sis, are now off to discover Kusadasi, another Turkish city on the west coast just one hour drive south of Izmir. Situated on the Agean Sea near the ruins of Ephesus. We ended up taking a taxi from Izmir to Kusadasi at a cost of 500TL, just quicker and it worked for us, not the most economical I’ll admit. We have a whole itinerary planned for Turkey as we are spending two months here. Bouncing around the country, exploring what Turkey has to offer. We are excited and looking forward to this next leg of our trip as there is lots of history to dig into. Plus the Aegean coast, the sea, and many other delights and adventures, I’m sure.
Support Our Blog And It’s Unique Travel Content
You can support our site by using the links through our travel Essential. If you purchase items using our links, we will receive a small commission. There are no extra or hidden costs to you. These commissions assist us in our travel, so we can provide unique content to you through each blog post. If you enjoy our blog and find it interesting and informative please share it with friends. Subscriber, so you never miss a new post. Thank you.
Recommended Travel Essential
Cindy and I call ourselves nomadic, so we use certain essentials to make this way of life easier and more comfortable with our lifestyle. With this in mind, we have composed a list of what we feel are essentials and some tips you might use to plan or take your next travel adventure.
- Travel Packing Essentials to help organize and make this task less stressful
- Travel Safety Essentials to make your life on the road a little safer, giving you peace of mind
- Living essentials to make life a little more comfortable, be this resting, working, or playing.
Accommodation Options While Traveling The World
- Booking.com is one of our go to’s when we are looking for a place to stay for a couple of days or longer
- Agoda.com we find is best best to use when in Southeast Asia, but hey you never now what you might find
- Airbnb.com usded to be our go to but some of their cancelation policies are resonable, give them a try as well
Travel Insurance
We always travel with travel Insurance, just medical or complete trip coverage. We use Heymondo as we find their costs reasonable. Remember, don’t travel, and without coverage, the savings are not worth the possible costs.
Some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning if you buy a product using our link, we may earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Disclaimer.
