15 Best Things To Do in Izmir, Turkey

There are plenty of things to do in Izmir, a city that’s packed with history, amazing food, fantastic scenery, and vibrant nightlife. There’s more to Turkey than just beach resorts; it’s home to a range of fantastic cities to explore, and one of my favorites is Izmir. As the third largest city in the country, Izmir has a laid-back, student-like vibe, but it’s far from lacking in substance.

My husband is from Aydin, which is around an hour’s drive away from Izmir. As such, we often visit and spend a few days or even a month there occasionally. It’s a place that’s so endearing, I never want to leave, and because there are so many places to see in Izmir, it never gets boring.

This entire part of Turkey is like an open-air museum, with plenty of Greek-era history to check out. One of the most popular Izmir attractions is nearby Ephesus, one of my favorite places in the whole world. By the end of this guide, I hope you’ll have fallen in love with the idea of visiting Izmir, just as much as I love it in real life.

Best Things To Do in Izmir

First things first: Izmir is a large city, so you’re going to need to use public transport, taxis, or drive to get around. Don’t be worried about that, however, as it’s all pretty easy to do. The best sightseeing in Izmir is in the Alsancak/Konak area, but there are many other areas worth exploring.

There are some great day trips just outside the city and with so many top things to do in Izmir itself, you’re going to want to narrow down your choices. That’s where my handy advice comes in useful!

1. Konak Square & Izmir Clock Tower

One of the most famous places to visit in Izmir is Konak Square, which is also home to the famous Izmir Clock Tower, built in 1901. The square itself is a vibrant spot where people meet to chat, children play, and street musicians perform. It’s a busy part of the city, and the clock tower is always surrounded by many people taking photographs.

I was shocked at how well-preserved the tower is, and the design is so intricate. This is definitely one of the best free things to do in Izmir, and the fact that there are so many delicious street food vendors around just adds to the attraction.

If you’re visiting Izmir on a sunny day, I recommend grabbing a coffee, sitting here, and just enjoying the hustle and bustle going on around you. However, you can also take an Izmir city tour which stops at the clock tower. Click here for…