You might already know that Izmir is among the top tourist attraction in the world.
What are some of the best things you can do in Izmir?
Well, you’re in for a treat because I’ve put together the best things you can do as a solo traveler or with your family.
In addition to that, I will also share a small story from Cameron Impastato who managed to visit Izmir city and lived there on $1443 for one month while he was traveling full time.
Ready to explore one of the best places in Turkey?
Let’s jump right in.
Where is Izmir Located
Izmir is the third largest city in Turkey after Istanbul. The city was founded by the Greeks, taken over by the Romans, and rebuilt by Alexander the great in the 15th century.
Today as we speak, Izmir has grown extensively becoming one of the best places for tourist attraction.
It has an open-air museum, archaeological sites, Velvet Castle, social amenities, outdoor activities, and other facilities that can be found in other Turkey cities.
Before we jump into the best and most free things to do in Izmir, let me share a quick story of a digital nomad who lived on $1443 A Month In Izmir while traveling full time.
Who is Cameron Impastato
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Cameron Impastato is a digital nomad who travels month to month to any location he wants.
Besides being a digital nomad, Cameron Impastato is a consultant who helps companies with their operations and business development.
- 5th of September 2022, Cameron Impastato traveled to Izmir Turkey, and that week of the 5th, Cameron Impastato spent $414.27.
- In the second week, Cameron spent $192.25.
- In the third week, he spent $657.08.
- and in the last week (4th week) he spent $179.41
See below breakdown
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Here is the full source of his expenditure
So, how did Cameron manage to live on a budget without any difficulties?
- Cameron stayed in Alsancak where most digital nomads stay. The area has a good number of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Cameron took a private room that cost $255 in the Alsancak neighborhood.
- Since Alsancak is close to social amenities and outdoor activities, Cameron was spending less on transportation, gym, and cowork. (Check the spreadsheet and see how much he was spending).
- Occasionally, Cameron used to go for a night out spending less since transportation cost was low.
What Activities Kept Cameron Going…
- Gym
- Cowork
- Going for a night out.
- Attending neighborhood events
And that is how Cameron managed to stay in Izmir on a budget for 1 month.
Let’s dive right in, into things you can do while staying in Izmir Turkey.
1. Visit Ephesus Archaeological Museum
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Ephesus is a popular ancient city in Turkey’s Central Aegean region, near modern-day Selçuk, and it was once a famous stop on the silk road. It’s a famous place that is loved by Turks and international tourists.
The city was built in the 10th BC and since then it has emerged as one of the best places to visit in Izmir province.
So how do you get to Ephesus?
You can use a car, bus, or train or you can get Ephesus tours from Istanbul.
Here is a top Ephesus resource for further reading: Ephesus Travel Blog – Things to Do 2022
2. Pay a Visit to Konak Pier
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Konak Pier is a popular place with shops and restaurants. One of the shops at Konak Pier sells beautiful pots of Turkish coffee.
I’d recommend you visit the area and enjoy shopping, the good food, and delicious drinks. Don’t end your vacation without visiting Konak Pier.
3. Visit Beaches Near Izmir
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When it comes to beaches, Izmir does not have attractive beaches like other regions. But there are nearby beaches where you can have fun.
Below are near beaches where you can visit:
- Alaçatı
- Foça
- Çeşme
- Urla
- Seferihisar
4. Take a Day Trip To Pamukkale
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Pamukkale is a popular town in Turkey. The town is well known for having hot springs and white travertines.
If you are coming from Izmir, it will only take you almost 4 hours to reach the destination. You can use a car or Pamukkale tours from Izmir.
Below are Top Pamukkale Resources for Further Reading:
5. Kordon Alsancak Promenade
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Kordon Alsancak is a fantastic place that has a famous seafront promenade. The area is backed by museums, cafes, and galleries.
Both local and international tourists love this place because it has a good spot for sunset viewing.
6. Kizlaragasi Han Bazaar
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Kizlaragasi Han Bazaar was built in 1744 nad its near Konak. Kizlaragasi Han Bazaar is one of the most famous Izmir attractions.
It’s a conducive area where you can rest and relax from a long journey. Make sure you visit the place for some delicious food.
7. Konak Square
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Konak is a core historic area in the neighborhood of Izmir. The area is well known for having pigeons.
It has a beautiful landscape with a view of the Gulf of Izmir and a mouth-watering Clock Tower located in the middle.
The Clock Tower was a gift from German Emperor Wilhelm II to Ottoman King Abdulhamit II.
8. Izmir Agora
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Izmir Agora is also a beautiful ancient monument located in the city center. The monument is surrounded by market streets, commercial buildings, and residential neighborhoods. It’s a good place to visit and I can say it’s worth visiting.
9. Pergamon Acropolis Turkey
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Pergamon acropolis Turkey is another ancient site and a tourist place for visitors. The ancient site is located high on a hilltop viewing the unique town of Bergama.
Below Is Pergamon Resource for Further Reading:
Below are key additional information to help you consider visiting Izmir
1. If you are looking for another best place to visit, I’d recommend:
- Antalya – Please note the area has a lot of Russians which has led to high Airbnb prices. But the good thing is that the area has a good beach where you can have fun.
- Fethiye
- Istanbul
- Marmaris
- Eskişehir
- Ölüdeniz
- Karaköy
2. The city is very windy
3. The best beach vacation, I’d recommend you visit Izmir in the summer period.
4. You should consider having travel insurance since it will protect you against any medical health issues or accidents that might happen either during the day or at night.
5. Most people have articulated that Izmir province is one of the best places to retire since it’s not expensive as Istanbul.
6. Most people have been asking “is Izmir turkey safe for tourists?” I can confidently say yes though there are some areas you should not risk going alone.
Conclusion
I hope today’s post showed you the best things to do in Izmir and how you can live on a budget.
Now I want to turn it over to you:
Which of the above things are you going to try first??
Will you visit Kordon Alsancak?
Or maybe you will take a day trip to Pamukkale
Either way, let me know by leaving a comment below right now.
