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Turkey's third largest city, and second biggest port. This modern, bustling place has had a turbulent history. As recently as 1922 it was razed almost completely to the ground as the Turkish army fought to expel the occupying Greeks.
For most visitors, Izmir serves simply as a transit point: by air from Europe and by ferry from Istanbul for visitors on the way to the beach resorts of Cesme to the west and Kusadasi to the south.
Food: Turkey takes great pride in its food and you'll generally eat better in Turkey than in neighbouring Greece. The size of Izmir means you'll have a far wider choice of eating options than in the coastal resorts.
Nightlife: Izmir's night life revolves around the lively waterfront area.
Shopping: Izmir has very large bazaar, offering the widest possible variety of local items. The classic is the Turkish carpet. Do expect to pay for quality (check the dye doesn't come off on your fingers), good work does not come cheap.
Days out: From Izmir it's just a 50 Km coach ride to Ephesus, Europe's best preserved Roman city. Prepare to be amazed at the sheer scale of the place. Unsuprisingly it's a huge tourist attraction, and a very hot one in the middle of the day in high summer.
Events: The main cultural events are: Izmir Film Festival (April); Ephesus Arts Festival (May); International Izmir Festival (June-July.
Other Useful Information
# Tourist office in Izmir
6925220
# Main language/s
Turkish
# To dial from Izmir call 00
# To call to Izmir dial 90
# Emergency phone number/s
Police: 155 Fire: 110 Ambulance: 112 British Embassy: +90 (312) 468-6230 US Embassy: +90 (312) 468-6110 International Operator: 115 Local Operator: 118
# Lost travellers cheques:
Thomas Cook: 00-800-44-91-4895
# Lost credit cards:
VISA: 00-800-13-535-0900 Mastercard: Call Collect to the United States 1-314-542-7111
# Electricity supply 220V, 50Hz |
