Izmir, Turkey
“The beautiful city,” as it is known in Turkey, Izmir welcomes the visitor with a demonstration of warmth and friendliness worthy of the renowned Turkish hospitality. A city of contrasts, Izmir offers the best of both modern and ancient worlds: steeped in history, while at the same time a cosmopolitan and vibrant city. With warm summers and mild winters, Izmir is a year-round destination.
Population:
4.32 million
Currency:
Turkish Lira, TL1 = 100 kuruş
Emergency Numbers:
Police: 155
Emergency: 112
Opening Hours:
8.30am – 5.30pm for most government/office based businesses. Shops from 9am – 8pm.
Newspapers:
The City
Sitting proudly astride the stunning Gulf of Izmir, the city divides into distinct areas each with its own character and ambiance. The cultural and geographical heart of the city is the Konak district, an seafront area of contrast that captures the spirit of Izmir. Konak is all about modernist architecture and wide boulevards, a great place to let the hours pass while eating, drinking, walking, talking, shopping and watching.
Just behind the seafront is the bazaar, an atmospheric warren of narrow winding streets, where the sights and sounds of the traders transport you back to far distant times and undoubtedly impress any visitor to the city.
Yet there is still more on offer for the adventurous visitor. North of Konark is the Alsancak area. Alsancak has undergone a dramatic renaissance and has been transformed from the unwanted neighbour into an exciting and happening party district where you will find enough night time entertainment to satisfy the most hardened hedonist.
Do & See
Sitting proudly astride the stunning Gulf of Izmir, the city divides into distinct areas each with its own character and ambiance. The cultural and geographical heart of the city is the Konak district, an seafront area of contrast that captures the spirit of Izmir.
Dining
Izmir is awash with dining establishments, from the simple hole in the wall kebab shop to the refinery of the five-star restaurants. Most of the cheaper eats are located around the Bazaar and the Alsancak region, while along the Birinci Kordon waterfront you will find plenty of good restaurants serving up tranca and cipura, types of sea bream, which are the local specialty.
Cafes
Izmir has a great selection of cafes. Enjoy traditional Turkish coffee with a side of Turkish delight or indulge in some authentic sweat treats like Baklava or Tulumba.
