You like the bright sun blinding you while you breathe the salty air with a subtle breeze? You like having a hard time deciding between too many options for things to do and places to see? If yes, stay tuned 'cause you are going to fall in love with this city.
From the moment you step into this city, you feel like you've just found yourself in another dimension. Trust me, the soft touch of the sun and humidity hit hard for a second, especially if you spend too much time in a dry environment. Your feet immediately take you to see the beautiful Aegean Sea by the infamous coast Kordon, or the long, really long, walking path of Güzelyalı. You grab an iced latte, put on your sunglasses, grab a friend or your favorite songs on your earpods, and start walking while watching the seagulls eat "gevrek". Yes, you can't call it "simit" in Izmir. Hop into the famous Old Elevator, “Asansör” in Karataş, to watch the whole city under your feet, and if you are lucky, maybe you’ll find the love of your life there!
The mesmerizing walk you take brings you to the heart of Izmir, the famous Clock Tower in Konak. Taking a photo in front of it is a must, and don't forget to feed the birds around the tower. You couldn't get enough of the sea? Just hop into the ferry and let it take you to the other side, Karşıyaka. It only takes 15 minutes to change sides, and you are not going to get disappointed with what you see there. Lucky if you are a skater, volleyball player, or a professional sunbather 'cause in Bostanlı, we have it all. You can play in the courts with strangers while the sun slowly sets and paints the sky with a warm orange, or sip your drink on the grass while eating “çiğdem”. Yeah, we don’t call those sunflower seeds “çekirdek”. Get used to it!
I’ve heard that you like swimming, is that true? It’s our favorite activity too, from April to October. The longer the swimming season, the better! You can take the city buses to Güzelbahçe, Urla, or Gümüldür if you like warmer water. You like it fancier, then Çeşme and Alaçatı are your spots! If you want a challenge, dip into the cold water of Seferihisar; it takes one bus and some courage, I warned you! Or you can get on the train, İzban, and set foot in Foça, where Chill’Ness takes place. You can even try scuba diving there.
Can you also hear this? It’s the sound of the parties of İzmir! You can find amazing places and parties of all kinds in Alsancak or Bornova with lots of young souls. You can end the night with İzmir Bomba, a delicious pastry filled with liquid chocolate, or if you are an all-nighter, you can wait for the famous Dostlar Fırını to open early in the morning to eat the best boyoz ever.
You thought we forgot about history lovers? Don’t you dare end your trip without visiting Selçuk, where the Ancient City of Ephesus, the city dedicated to Artemis, is located. Since you are already there, get into the minibus and get ready to see the famous city of Şirince! Enjoy getting handed tons of various complimentary wine from the local vendors, and no, you don’t have to buy them. Don’t forget to visit St. John the Baptist Church and place your candles for a wish. You should also visit the Agora of Smyrna, an ancient Roman city located in the middle of İzmir. While you are there, visit Kemeraltı Bazaar, one of the world’s largest historical open-air bazaars, which has been İzmir’s commercial center since the 17th century. Grab a few miniature tower clocks, as well as nazar, eye beads from the local shops, to give to your family and friends.
İzmir is a city filled with countless places to see, things to do, and traditional foods to eat, it’s impossible to explain all of them in one blog. Go, experience it yourself, and you’ll understand the vibe. Whatever you do, keep the city clean and don’t say “İstanbul is better” to an İzmirli!
Deniz Gülse Ak
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