IZMIR

Sea tourism or coastal tourism is one of the tourism types with the highest demand in İzmir. Due to its long coasts, clean sea and beaches, blue flag beaches, natural and historical beauties, which are effective in benefiting from sea tourism intensively, as well as having suitable climatic conditions, İzmir is extremely suitable for this type of tourism.

Sea tourism opportunities are widely used in our province, which has a coastline of 629 km in the Aegean Sea and 101 km of which includes completely natural beaches. Among the beaches in our province, Selçuk-Pamucak, Urla and Güzelbahçe, Çeşme-Ilıca and Altınkum, Gümüldür and Özdere beaches and Dikili and Çandarlı, Foça-Yeni Foça beaches in the north stand out in terms of their favorable sandy features. Access to the beaches is extremely easy. It is possible to obtain vehicles from İzmir central garage and Üçkuyular garage to almost every district at any time of the day.

In addition to the sea-sand-sun trio, it is used effectively in yacht tourism, daily boat tours, water sports for tourism purposes and many other areas.

The prominent place in İzmir in terms of water sports is Alaçatı, which is very suitable for windsurfing. Alaçatı, which is 10 minutes away from Çeşme, is one of the best windsurfing areas in the world and hosts international organizations. It is seen that tourism activity in the region, which has been a popular destination in recent years, will continue in the future.

Other coastal districts that stand out after Çeşme in water sports for tourism purposes are; Menderes, Seferihisar, Karaburun, Foça, Dikili and Selçuk. In these areas, underwater and surface sports can be done through agencies, facilities and marine tourism intermediary businesses.

Here's a to-do list of things to do in İzmir, Turkey:

1. Explore the İzmir Clock Tower (İzmir Saat Kulesi): This iconic clock tower in Konak Square is a symbol of İzmir and a great place to start your visit.

2. Stroll along the Kordon: Take a leisurely walk along the İzmir Kordon, a beautiful promenade along the Aegean Sea, with views of the bay and cityscape.

3. Visit the Ancient Agora: Discover the history of İzmir at the Ancient Agora, an open-air archaeological museum that features ruins from the Roman and Byzantine eras.

4. See Kadifekale (Velvet Castle): Climb to the top of Kadifekale to enjoy panoramic views of İzmir and explore the ruins of this ancient castle.

5. Shop at the Kemeraltı Bazaar: This historic market offers a wide range of goods, from spices and textiles to jewelry and antiques.

6. Try Traditional Turkish Cuisine: Sample delicious Turkish dishes at local restaurants. Don't miss out on köfte (meatballs), kebabs, and Turkish delight.

7. Visit the İzmir Archaeological Museum: Explore a vast collection of artifacts from the region's history, including items from ancient Troy and Ephesus.

8. Enjoy a Boat Tour: Take a boat tour along the İzmir coastline to experience the beauty of the Aegean Sea.

9. Attend a Cultural Event: Check out İzmir's cultural calendar for concerts, festivals, and art exhibitions.

10. Explore the Alsancak District: This lively district is filled with shops, cafes, and bars, making it a great place for a night out.

11. Visit the Natural History Museum: Learn about the region's natural history and wildlife at this interesting museum.

12. Take a Ferry Ride: Enjoy a ferry ride across the bay, which offers scenic views of İzmir from the water.

13. Visit the Atatürk Museum: Learn about the life and legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.

Remember to check the opening hours and availability of attractions and events as they may vary. Enjoy your time in İzmir!

İzmir, a beautiful coastal city in Turkey, has a rich history with numerous ancient cities and archaeological sites in its vicinity. Here are some of the notable ancient cities near İzmir:

1. Ephesus (Efes): Ephesus is one of the most famous ancient cities in İzmir and is known for its well-preserved ruins. It was once a major Greek and Roman city and is home to the stunning Library of Celsus, the Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), and a large amphitheater.
2. Pergamon (Bergama): Pergamon, located in the modern town of Bergama, was a prominent ancient Greek city. It is renowned for its Acropolis, which includes the impressive Altar of Zeus and the Temple of Trajan. The city also had a famous library, second only to the Library of Alexandria.
3. Smyrna (İzmir): Smyrna, now modern-day İzmir, is one of the oldest cities in the region and has a history dating back thousands of years. While much of its ancient heritage is buried beneath the modern city, there are still some archaeological remains to explore.
4. Teos: Teos was an ancient Ionian city situated near the present-day town of Sığacık. The city was known for its Temple of Dionysus and the agora. Its harbor was once an important trading center.
5. Colophon (Kolofon): Colophon was another ancient Ionian city, known for its association with early Greek poets and philosophers. It was famed for its Temple of Apollo and the Colophonian Library, one of the largest libraries in the ancient world.
6. Lebedos: Lebedos was an ancient Greek city with a rich history. It had a notable theater and was a member of the Ionian League, an ancient confederation of twelve Ionian cities.
7. Claros: Claros was an ancient sanctuary dedicated to the god Apollo, known for its Oracle of Apollo. People from far and wide would consult the oracle for guidance.
8. Myndos: Located near the modern town of Gümüşlük, Myndos was an ancient Carian city. It played a role in the wars between Alexander the Great and the Persian Empire.
9. Euromos: Euromos is known for its well-preserved Temple of Zeus Lepsynos, which is considered one of the best-preserved temples from antiquity.

These ancient cities are a testament to the rich history of the İzmir region and provide valuable insights into the civilizations that once thrived in this area. Exploring these archaeological sites is a fascinating journey back in time.

House of Virgin Mary And Seven Churches of Revelation

House of the Virgin Mary: Virgin Mary House is located on the Bülbül Mountain, 9 km from Selçuk. It is known that John brought Virgin Mary to Ephesus 4 or 6 years after the death of Jesus. In 1891, the Lazarist priests, upon the dream of the German nun A. Katherina Emerich, discovered that the house where the Virgin Mary spent her last days was at the end of this research. This event is a new invention in the world of Christianity and shed light on the world of religion. This structure was cross-planned then restored. The house is considered sacred by Muslims, Pope VI. After Paul's visit in 1967, the rites are held on the 15th day of August every year, and these rituals attract great attention.

The Seven Churches of Revelation: These are a group of ancient Christian communities mentioned in the Book of Revelation in the New Testament of the Bible. These churches were located in Asia Minor, which is modern-day Turkey. Each of these churches received a specific message from Jesus Christ in the Book of Revelation. Here's some information about each of the Seven Churches of Revelation:

1. Ephesus: Ephesus was one of the most prominent cities in Asia Minor during the Roman period. The church in Ephesus is praised for its perseverance and discernment but is warned about losing its first love (Revelation 2:1-7). The ruins of Ephesus can be visited near the modern town of Selçuk.

2. Smyrna: Smyrna, modern-day Izmir, was known for its strong Christian community. The church in Smyrna is commended for its faithfulness in the face of persecution (Revelation 2:8-11).

3. Pergamon: Pergamon was an ancient Greek city known for its impressive acropolis. The church in Pergamon is praised for holding fast to their faith despite living in a city with strong pagan influences but is warned about false teachings (Revelation 2:12-17).

4. Thyatira: Thyatira was known for its trade guilds. The church in Thyatira is commended for its love and faith but is cautioned about tolerating a false prophetess (Revelation 2:18-29).

5. Sardis: Sardis was a former capital of the Lydian Empire. The church in Sardis is told to wake up and strengthen what remains and repent for its dead works (Revelation 3:1-6).

6. Philadelphia: Philadelphia is praised for its faithfulness and is told that they have an open door before them that no one can shut (Revelation 3:7-13).

7. Laodicea: Laodicea was a wealthy city known for its lukewarm water supply. The church in Laodicea is famously rebuked for being lukewarm and is encouraged to be zealous and repent (Revelation 3:14-22).

Today, the archaeological remains of these ancient cities and their churches can still be visited in modern-day Turkey, offering a glimpse into the early Christian history of the region. These churches hold significant historical and religious importance for Christians, and many pilgrims and tourists visit them to explore their rich heritage.

Urla and Şirince, two picturesque towns located on the western coast of Turkey, are known for their flourishing vineyards and wineries. Thess regions have a rich history of winemaking that dates back thousands of years. Here is some information about Urla's and Şirince’s vineyards and wineries:

1. Historical Significance: Urla's wine culture has deep historical roots. The ancient city of Klazomenai, located nearby, is believed to be one of the first places where wine was produced in Anatolia. This historical legacy has contributed to the development of modern winemaking in the Urla region.

2. Grapes and Varietals: Urla's and Şirince’s vineyards are home to a variety of grape types, both indigenous and international. Some of the popular grape varieties grown in the region include Narince, Sultaniye, Bornova Misketi, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

3. Microclimates: The region's diverse microclimates, influenced by the Aegean Sea, offer ideal conditions for grape cultivation. The combination of warm summers, mild winters, and sea breezes creates a unique terroir that contributes to the character and quality of İzmir wines.

4. Wineries: Both cities boasts several boutique wineries that have gained recognition for their high-quality wines. Some notable wineries in the area include Fruit Wines of Şirince and Urla Şarapçılık, Urlice Vineyards, Urla Vourla Winery, and Kavaklıdere Urla Winery, among others.

5. Wine Tours and Tastings: Many of these wineries offer tours and tastings, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample a variety of wines. These experiences allow wine enthusiasts to immerse themselves in regions's wine culture.

6. Cultural Events: These towns also host cultural events and festivals celebrating its wine heritage. The Urla Grape Harvest Festival, for example, is a popular annual event that features wine tastings, live music, and traditional food. There is also Şirince Tale Festival which you can enjoy festival and taste town’s delicious Fruit Wines.

7. Wine Tourism: Urla and Şirince have become a destination for wine tourism, attracting both domestic and international visitors. The charming vineyard landscapes, combined with the opportunity to taste unique wines, make it an appealing spot for wine lovers.

8. Wine Production: Wineries of the towns produce a wide range of wines, including white, red, and rosé varieties. Some wineries focus on organic or biodynamic practices, emphasizing sustainability and environmental stewardship.

9. Award-Winning Wines: Urla wines have received recognition and awards in international competitions, further establishing the region's reputation as a producer of high-quality wines.

10. Local Cuisine: To complement the wines, Şirince and Urla offer a rich culinary scene with restaurants and eateries that serve dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood and traditional Turkish cuisine.

In summary, these towns’s vineyards and wineries have become an integral part of the region's identity, drawing wine enthusiasts and tourists alike. With its historical heritage, diverse grape varieties, and picturesque landscapes, Urla and Şirince continue to flourish as a notable wine-producing region in Turkey.

Izmir, nestled on the stunning Aegean coastline of Turkey, is not just a city rich in history and culture; it's also a culinary paradise waiting to be explored. With its diverse array of flavors and influences, Izmir's foods and beverages offer a tantalizing journey for food enthusiasts. From mouthwatering street foods to traditional dishes passed down through generations, here's a taste of what makes Izmir's culinary scene so captivating.

1. Boyoz: The Iconic Pastry of Izmir

Start your culinary adventure in Izmir with a bite of Boyoz. These flaky pastries, filled with a mixture of tahini and sugar, are a beloved breakfast staple in the city. Boyoz has a unique taste and texture, and it pairs perfectly with a glass of Turkish tea. Locals often visit Boyoz bakeries known as "Boyozcu" for a freshly baked batch of this delightful treat.

2. Kumru: The Turkish Sandwich with a Twist

Kumru, which means "dove" in Turkish, is a sandwich unique to Izmir. This delectable creation is made by stuffing a freshly baked bun with a variety of fillings. The most popular options include sucuk (Turkish sausage), pastirma (cured beef), and a mixture of sausage and cheese. These savory sandwiches offer a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.

3. Midye Dolma: Stuffed Mussels

Midye Dolma, or stuffed mussels, are a quintessential street food in Izmir. They are prepared by filling plump, steamed mussels with a mixture of spiced rice, pine nuts, currants, and aromatic herbs. Topped with a squeeze of lemon, these bite-sized delights are a perfect combination of seafood freshness and Mediterranean flavors.

4. Tursu Suyu: Fermented Delights

To balance out the richness of the cuisine, don't forget to try tursu suyu, a tangy fermented beverage made from pickled vegetables. It's not only refreshing but also aids digestion, making it a popular choice for locals.

5. Mastic Gum: A Unique Sweet Treat

For dessert, explore the sweet world of mastic gum. This resin, extracted from the mastic tree, is a key ingredient in various Izmir sweets, including mastic ice cream and Turkish delight. Known for its distinct flavor and aroma, mastic gum adds a unique twist to traditional Turkish desserts.

6. Şambali: A Sweet Semolina Delight

Şambali is a traditional Izmir dessert that's sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. This semolina-based dessert is soaked in a sweet syrup, making it a delightful and moist treat. It's often garnished with pistachios or coconut flakes, adding a delightful crunch to the soft texture.

7. Turkish Coffee and Tea: Time for a Brew

No culinary journey through Turkey is complete without experiencing the rich flavors of Turkish coffee and  tea. In Izmir, these beverages are a cultural institution and are often enjoyed in the company of friends and family in cozy tea houses and coffee shops.

Exploring the foods and beverages of Izmir is not just a gastronomic adventure; it's a way to connect with the local culture and traditions. Whether you're savoring the flaky layers of a Boyoz or sipping on a cup of strong Turkish coffee, Izmir's culinary scene will leave you with unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for Turkish cuisine. So, when you visit this charming city on the Aegean coast, be sure to arrive with an empty stomach and an open mind, ready to indulge in the delicious flavors of Izmir.

8. Olive Oil: Liquid Gold of the Aegean

Izmir and its surrounding region are renowned for producing some of the world's finest olive oil. The Aegean climate, with its mild winters and hot summers, is ideal for olive cultivation. The olives harvested here are transformed into exquisite olive oils, boasting a rich and fruity flavor profile. Take a tour of one of the many local olive oil farms to witness the meticulous process of olive oil production and sample the various olive oil varieties.

9. Seafood Extravaganza: Izmir's Coastal Bounty

With its prime location along the Aegean Sea, Izmir offers an abundant supply of fresh seafood. Fishermen bring in a daily catch of sea bass, sea bream, and octopus, which are expertly prepared in local restaurants. For the ultimate seafood experience, head to one of the many seaside seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy grilled fish and mezes (small appetizers) while taking in breathtaking sea views.

10. Markets and Bazaars: Culinary Treasures Await

Exploring Izmir's bustling markets and bazaars is a food lover's dream. The Kemeraltı Bazaar, one of the city's oldest and most vibrant markets, is a treasure trove of spices, dried fruits, nuts, and more. Don't miss the chance to pick up some Turkish delight, a sweet and chewy confection available in an array of flavors.

11. Street Food Adventures: Gozleme and Kumpir

As you wander through the city's streets, be sure to sample some of the mouthwatering street food offerings. Gozleme, a thin, savory pastry filled with ingredients like cheese, spinach, or minced meat, is cooked to perfection on a griddle. Another popular choice is kumpir, a baked potato stuffed with a variety of toppings such as butter, cheese, and olives, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.

12. Raki: Turkey's Aniseed Elixir

Raki, often referred to as "lion's milk" due to its cloudy appearance when mixed with water, is a traditional Turkish alcoholic beverage. It's flavored with aniseed and pairs wonderfully with mezes. In Izmir, you'll find locals enjoying a glass of raki alongside a selection of cold and hot mezes as they engage in lively conversation at meyhane (taverns).

13. Meze Magic: Small Plates, Big Flavors

Mezes are small, flavorful dishes that accompany drinks like raki or wine. These appetizers encompass a wide range of flavors, including marinated vegetables, seafood, and dips like hummus and tzatziki. The art of sharing mezes with friends or family is a cherished tradition in Izmir, creating a convivial atmosphere at the dining table.

14. Breakfast Bliss: Kahvaltı

Turkish breakfast, known as "kahvaltı," is a leisurely and indulgent affair. A typical breakfast spread includes olives, cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers, eggs, and a variety of spreads like honey and kaymak (clotted cream). Enjoy this hearty breakfast with freshly baked bread and a strong cup of Turkish tea.

Exploring the foods and beverages of Izmir is not just a gastronomic adventure; it's a way to connect with the local culture and traditions. Whether you're savoring the flaky layers of a Boyoz or sipping on a cup of strong Turkish coffee, Izmir's culinary scene will leave you with unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for Turkish cuisine. So, when you visit this charming city on the Aegean coast, be sure to arrive with an empty stomach and an open mind, ready to indulge in the delicious flavors of Izmir.