Turkey’s easy-going third city, on a sweeping Aegean bay.
İzmir is relaxed, liberal and lived-in, with a long seafront promenade (the Kordon) where locals stroll at sunset. Its 1901 clock tower in Konak Square is the city’s symbol, and the Kemeraltı bazaar is one of the liveliest in the country.
It is also the best base for the Aegean: Ephesus, Pergamon, Şirince and the beach towns of Çeşme and Alaçatı are all within easy reach.
Planning your trip? Read our guides to entry requirements, flights from the UK and Ireland and the best time to visit.