Izmir: An ancient City

A May 2002 trip to Izmir by linet

Izmir is placed on the west coast of Turkey, densely populated and hectic for many travelers. It is an excellent transport hub. Spending a few hours in this place can take the traveler back centuries to follow the footsteps of the cultures which lived here.

  • 2 reviews
1. Kemeralti: Grandbazaar of Izmir. Take metro/bus to Konak Meydani and follow the crouwds to busy small streets. Dont miss the ancient Kervansaray buildings along the way. Take a tea break at the 'Kizlaragasi hani' which is a restored Kervansaray and a lunch at the kebap shops around which offer good value for money. Search for 'Havra Sokagi' for the oldest sinagogue of the city. The old sweet Raby will be happy to show you around.

2. Take a boot to Karsiyaka from 'Konak Meydani' and admire how the rich Turks live in Karsiyaka. enjoy your Turkish tea looking at the great view.

3. Cankaya: Agora of the Ancient City of

4. Kordon: Ataturk muzesi. House where the great Turkish leader stayed during his visits. It gives an image of how the people lived last century in this city.

5. St John Church. Surprisingly, the building is not damaged during the fire beginning of the century despite all the buildings around have burned. According to the legend, St John stopped the Church from burning during the fire by watering the flames.

6. Kadifekale: Great view of the city.

Quick Tips:

1. Watch for the wallet

2. Stop for a beer at 'Kordon'.

3. Go for small kebap shops at the Grand Bazaar.

4. If you would like a chic meal, you should be at Deniz Restarant for seafood (Kordon) or La Folie (Alsancak). 1881(Alsancak) is also a good but expensive option.

Best Way To Get Around:

There is a metro line across the city. You can by the cards also in the metro. If you plan to stay longer it is advised to get a 'Kentkart' which you fill with an amount which can be used in buses, metro and city boats. Taxis are cheap but always ask for 'Ne kadar tutar?' How much would it cost after your destination before getting in.

City boat is a great experience.

Ege PalasBest of IgoUgo

Hotel

Great view from the rooms, good service, friendly personnel. Attactive weekend rates.

This was a very well-managed and well-maintained hotel. It is located centrally, on a upper-class part of town. There are boxes in the rooms where you can place valuables. The room also has a phone, mini-bar, and the decoration is tasteful.

Web site is www.egepalas.com where you can find updated information.

  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by linet on January 13, 2003

Ege Palas
Cumhuriyet bulvari no: 210 Izmir, Turkey
(23) 2463-9090

About the Writer

linet
linet
Eindhoven, Netherlands

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