Props: Izmir, Turkey
As the third largest city in a culturally rich country of Turkey, Izmir is a place where one can do a lot and so much. From the pool of options, here are the top ten things to do while you are in the Izmir city:
10. Shop (or window shop) at the Konak Pier
The Konak Pier is a shopping district that is a renaissance of its former very run-down state. Featuring mostly designer stores, the shopping is great for those who can afford it and the window shopping is even better for those that can’t. The boats sail around the pier and it provides a great atmosphere for delicious food, friendly environment, and a beautiful stroll.
9. Visit the Archaeology Museum
The Archaeology Museum is located at the Bahribaba Park just to the south of Konak Peir. This is a museum that mostly deals with ceramics from ancient cities and ruins around and within the Izmir region.
8. Peruse Ethnography Museum
Located just opposite the archaeology museum, the beautiful four story Ethnography Museum offers a great display of folk art, especially on the first two floors. The artifacts showcase the region of the city and its environments in the 19th century. There are no charges to gain entry into the museum.
7. Experience Ancient Rome in the Agora open-air museum
Located around Mount Pagos, this is an open-air museum that was built in 333BC by and for Alexander the Great. It was rebuilt in by Marcus Aurelius after an earthquake brought it down in 178 AD. Hundreds of ancient Roman graffiti artworks were discovered in the basilica. The Agora is a great display of what ancient Roman art and architecture felt and looked like.
6. Tour the St. Polycarp Church
The building is arguably the oldest in the city. It was built in honor of St. Poylcarp in the year 1625. St. Polycarp was killed in the year 155 AD by being stabbed to death after setting him on fire failed. The reason for his killing was because of his strong faith and religious beliefs. The church is not easily accessible to the public because one has to call in advance. Moreover, it is surrounded by high fences, but definitely worth the trip to visit.
5. Navigate the maze-like Kemeralti Bazaar
The Kemeralti Bazaar has more than enough, in terms of variety, of what a visitor may want to see, buy or eat. The place is busy and crowded with vendors sprawling everywhere. The maze-like interior compounded with the busy nature is a bit of a challenge though, and it is advisable for you to get a local guide to avoid getting lost and wasting precious time.
4. Hang around the Izmir Clock Tower
Also known as the Saat Kulesi and built in 1901, the Izmir Clock Tower is more of a monument to accessorize the Konak square. It a great place to take photos, and around it too is an expansive open area in which to hang out, especially in the evening.
3. Visit the Pamukkale
Pamukkale is located a bit inland of Izmir. The main attractions are the geographical rapid like waves that cascade down the slopes. They hold water that is believed to be of health values if one bathes in them. The view on the place is also panoramic and picturesque sunset is also viewed on the backdrop.
2. Visit the Wreck Dives
This is a splendid venue to scuba-dive and swim past the wrecks of vessels of many years ago. Besides, there is plenty of sea- life to be viewed living in the wrecks.
There are also boat rides around the beach that have clear bottoms. Lastly, there is also the option of snorkelling on the shallow waters to enjoy the watery fauna.
1. Lay out on the Wonderful Beaches
A short drive from the Izmir city leads you to the great beach resorts that have great facilities for families on vacation and especially those who like water sports. Besides the warm and beautiful beaches, there are gorgeous, protected and secluded coves to be enjoyed.
With that countdown and Izmir waiting for you, it is time to get your travel plans underway which of course include applying for a passport!
- Tour Turkey: Top 10 Spots in Izmir - June 30, 2014