We will be spending one day in Izmir before flying to Istanbul. Looking for hotel suggestions near the airport and the best things to see/do in one day. Thanks.
Posted by
Duluth 🛶
8059 posts
I can't help you with hotel suggestions as I did not ostay overnight, but did spend the day in Izmir, and here are some things you can see. If you want more ideas, get a good guidebook, or get one from the library and read up on Izmir.
Definitely visit the Agora ruins, the marketplace of ancient Smyrna. The Agora is mostly in ruins today but it was still impressive. and well worth seeing. You could also visit the beautiful Hisar Mosque. Don't miss the Kemeralti Bazaar., which is a wonderful market with a variety of vendors there. I enjoyed walking around and seeing the various items that were for sale, and bought a few gifts to bring back. Here's something from LP that gives a good description of it: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/turkey/aegean-coast/izmir/attractions/kemeralti-market/a/poi-sig/1249467/360867
Walk down to the harbor to see the boats. I went there at during the day and again at sunset and it was absolutely beautiful. There are so many things to see and do. There are some very good restaurants in Izmir, too. If you haven't had pide by then (or even if you have), make sure you get some. I also enjoyed stopping for food at street vendors. Izmir is really an enjoyable city - more modern than most of Turkey (and more secular) and well worth a visit.
Posted by
OP
Edmonds
13 posts
Thanks for the suggestions. Looking forward to spending a day there.