Izmir Province Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)

Turkey | A glance at a thousand years, exploring the mysterious ancient city of Rome

Coming to Ephesus, you can't miss the ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus. Ephesus is a relic ancient city in the eastern Mediterranean, this thousand-year-old city is located on the east coast of the Aegean Sea in western Turkey, and is currently the largest Greek-Roman ancient city in the world. Ephesus was once a big city established by the ancient Greeks in Asia Minor, most of which is now only ruins, this once famous city has partly become the Turkish town of Selcuk today. This ancient city is full of magical colors, the Celsus Library is a building ruin in the ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus in Turkey, the towering two-story Ionian columns are its prominent features, grand and majestic, it looks like a palace from a distance. The front of the library is 16 meters high and 21 meters wide, with 16 beautifully carved and well-preserved large stone pillars in front of the door. The Temple of Hadrian is the most exquisite building among the many ruins on both sides of the Christ Street in the ancient city of Ephesus, it is a representative of the Corinthian temple, with carvings of different mythological characters on the inner wall columns, being in Ephesus in Turkey, it seems to travel back to the prosperous Roman capital, as the most eye-catching world heritage in Turkey, it is full of ancient charm. Although there are many ancient city ruins in Turkey, seeing Ephesus is truly shocking, although it is not very complete. But it has fully demonstrated the previous prosperity. No matter how vividly and vividly the later generations depict the scene they see with their own eyes, it is not as real as the feeling of being on the scene to get close to history. This kind of ancient building that has been preserved through the vicissitudes of the years, when you touch it with your own hands, that kind of feeling is indescribable. Transportation: You can take the minibus of Pamukkale and Kusadasi by bus, and then walk for 20 minutes to reach the ticket office of the back door; Take a taxi from Selcuk to the ancient city of Ephesus, the fare is 15-20 lira The two entrances of the ancient city of Ephesus are 3 kilometers apart, and general tourists will choose to enter from the upper door, walk down all the way, and exit from the lower door.

Ephesus - great theatre & library of Celsus

Ephesus, Turkey The former Greek city of Ephesus was once a flourishing regional hub and a centre of commerce. It was home to the fames Temple of Artemis, the Greek goddess, and also important site in the growth of the early church. The apostle Paul stopped several times on his missionary journeys to preach here. 1. Library of Celsus Most impressive building in the Roman Empire. Built in the second century Housed thousands of scrolls but were destroyed by fire in the third century 2. Great theatre Largest theatre in Asia Minor, able to seat 25,000. Used to believe via music is a form of healing. Beside performing, also used to fight for animals. Must visit if you in Turkey. #turkey #mytripvlog #historytour #photospot

can’t Ephesus enough how amazing this is

#celebratewithtrip Ephesus is an ancient city in Turkey’s Central Aegean region, near modern-day Selçuk. There is so much to talk about within this site. First and foremost is that the entire city is covered in marble, and this includes the streets and sidewalks. A wonderful site. The walk down to the library is spectacular with so much to see. A fantastic place to tour how they managed to build all the buildings without modern equipment never ceases to amaze me. The ruins are in such terrific shape, it doesn't seem as old as they really are. The Library is a must see and the amphitheater is so large, it's amazing to think how they built it. We went go to the upper gate of the Ephesus and then walk all the way down to the lower gate. When you we came out of the lower gate we can also walk back to Selcuk. It is a pleasant walk of about 2-3 kms. This is one of my all time traveling highlights. The Ancient City of Ephesus is absolutely fascinating and despite the ruins it is still possible to get a very real feel for what life was like. I felt as if I were transported back in time. Truly worth a visit. I loved it ! Tips 1. Need good walking shoes with good grip as the marble gets slick in some areas, especially coming down steps. 2. Wear sun block, bring enough water and hat or sunglasses to enjoy this large ancient city. 3. For those on a budget avoid the market at the entry , its overpriced. The souvenir shop at the site is pretty good . #celebratewithtrip #ancient_city #ancientcity #turkey #mytripvlog #vacation

Ephesus

Ephesus is an ancient city in Turkey’s Central Aegean region, near modern-day Selçuk. Its excavated remains reflect centuries of history, from classical Greece to the Roman Empire – when it was the Mediterranean’s main commercial center – to the spread of Christianity. Paved streets wind past squares, baths and monumental ruins. The Temple of Hadrian was built before 138 A.D. for Emperor Hadrian’s visit.

Super dreamy! The most romantic Aegean town in Turkey.

When it comes to the beautiful towns of Turkey, many people will mention Alacati. This is a beautiful and dreamy town by the Aegean Sea, facing Greece across the sea. It is full of literary and fresh places, belonging to Izmir city. It is famous for its Greek-style architecture, windmills and vineyards, and has a history of more than 150 years. Arriving in the small town is like entering a fresh fairy tale world. The uniquely shaped old windmills are not only a scenic spot in the town, but also a iconic building of Alacati. The location of the windmills is in the central urban area of the small town. In the criss-crossing alleys, you can always see neat tables and chairs arranged in a fresh blue and white color, reminiscent of Greece. Unlike modern Greece, the exterior walls of the buildings here are not pure white, but mostly composed of gray-brown bricks, resembling medieval Greece. Walking in the small town, with a gentle breeze blowing, the clean and tidy streets are almost filled with fresh flowers. There is a feeling of leisure and not busy. Just like the name of the Aegean Sea, it makes people feel very fresh and suitable for finding a comfortable time to enjoy a leisurely vacation life. Turning around the street corner, a faint floral fragrance wafts over, and large patches of emerald green catch the eye. Taking a leisurely walk here, feeling the sea breeze, admiring the ancient flower stone houses, taking some beautiful photos, sitting down for a cup of coffee, is a very pleasant thing. This place is suitable for staying for a few more days, experiencing a quiet and peaceful life. If you want to find a quiet place to stop and enjoy the beautiful scenery, go to Alacati! Transportation: If you are driving, it is very convenient to follow the navigation to get here. If you are taking public transportation, you need to take a bus to Izmir first and then transfer to a bus to Cesme. Get off at the station before Cesme.

Alacati Instagram haven

Getting There - The nearest big airport is Izmir. From Izmir you can either hire a taxi( expensive) or take a mini bus into ALacati. Attractions - ALacati is an Instagram haven with unique restaurant, bars, cafes, and shops. Everything is a bit pricier in this region compared to less touristic areas however if your currency is high you won’t think so. remember to bargain when you shop :) Hotels - I would recommend you to stay a few days at the centre of ALacati in a boutique hotel. there are many bohemian villas converted into hotels. Food & Restaurants - Turkish food is amazing however there is a great selection of western restaurants where you can find your usual favourite meals. Shopping - like I mentioned before there is a great selection of shops especially if you are the bohemian type, you will love the accessories and clothes. Don’t forget to bargain! #uniquelodging

Per capita 200 live in [Turkey] seaside town of the fairy lodge this time found that the country's hotel cost-effective, oh, really good tourism developed countries, we are in Alacati (next to Cesme) Booked this [Kose Konak Butik Hotel] . hotel location is very good, only 5 minutes walk from the town center quiet around, very suitable for relaxation ~ most important price Really cheap, basic room rate is 400-500 per night, and this price includes breakfast ~ recommend you choose a pool view room with a balcony, from the room down shot is particularly beautiful! ! Very colonial wind ~ . This hotel does not allow small children to stay, so it is suitable for honeymoon then about breakfast, I really want to give them awesome! Its so delicious. Im having breakfast with my boyfriend every day until Im not hungry in the afternoon. Its too much.

Turkey|Alacati You don't have to go to Greece to feel the Mediterranean style town. You must come to Alacati, the favorite place in Turkey for self-driving travel. There are very few Chinese tourists, basically local tourists from Europe and Turkey. The daytime is quiet and serene. Most tourists go to the beach to play. There are only a few tourists left in the town. Taking pictures and drinking tea is very leisurely. At night, the impression of the town is overwhelmed during the day. All the streets are stuffed. Full of tourists, everyone is drinking and chatting on the head, the stalls at the night market are also put out, very lively, I recommend you not to miss this charming town.

Ancient City of Ephesus

#fallingseason About 30 minutes from the port of Kusadasi is the ancient city of Ephesus. Ancient Ephesus has almost 300,000 residents and was an incredibly important city in the ancient Roman Empire. Words cannot describe how amazing this site is - only 10% is excavated, and we could see excavation vehicles still working while we were there. Historically important figures like Marc Antony, Cleopatra, and Apostle Paul once walked these streets! #turkey #ephesus

get lost in the lost city of Ephesus

this is an incredible ancient treasure located just outside the seaside town of Izmir turkey. well before the collapse of the ottoman empire this city was a port town city inhabited by the ancient Romans. Walk down the original streets thousands of years old as though you were walking in the streets of ancient Rome. You’ll be amazed by all the small theaters and large coliseums ocean pillars will tower above you with Roman design and spectacular Roman architecture. This trip is an entire day trip as leave yourself plenty of time to walk that almost 40 km of pathways, Corredor‘s and ancient paths. if you’re lucky enough to stay for the sunset I highly recommend you do. Transportation is easy as there is a train that arrives in the town straight from Izmir.  everything that you need to see is clearly marked in English if you’re traveling from the United States. Patron the local souvenir shops at the beginning of this magnificent journey. #izmir #turkeytravel #turkey #ephesus #optoutside #postcardsfromtheworld #roamtheplanet #solotravel #wanderlust #travelphotography #traveltheworld #mytripvlog #2023travelwish

The ancient city of Ephesus.

Visiting the old city of Ephesus was an amazing experience. I was astonished in front of the grand ruins of temples and theaters that date back to ancient times. At that time, the city was vibrant and full of life. The streets paved with marble bore the traces of Roman civilization. Houses, baths, and libraries were witnessing the city's advanced culture. The effect of the first church founded by Saint Paul was astounding. I enjoyed visiting the Library of Celsus and the famous theater where artists perform. The visit was splendid, and I recommend Ephesus to anyone interested in history and culture.

Ephesus Ancient City

Remains of the second biggest city of the Roman Empire

Turkish leisure time | The romantic blue of the Aegean Sea

The town of Cesme in Turkey is known as a romantic town. It is a peninsula town scattered in the Aegean Sea west of Izmir. To get to Cesme, you need to transfer in Izmir. Although it's a bit of a detour, coming to this town won't disappoint you. In the peak summer season, there are flowers everywhere, which is pleasing to the eye. The town of Cesme is not very big, surrounded by the clear blue ocean. As soon as you step into the town, you are immersed in the romantic atmosphere of the alleys. Unlike the delicacy of Alacati, Cesme, as a seaside town, has its unique charm. Unlike the light blue-green of the Mediterranean, the sea in Cesme is deep blue. Here, a cup of black tea and a piece of sea are enough to sustain a peaceful afternoon. The air by the sea is exceptionally mild, enjoying the intimate touch of the sea breeze. The waves beat against the rocks, and the sound seems to have a magical power, soothing the weary travelers. Imagine the romance of Turkey before departure, the tranquil Aegean Sea has an added sense of ancient and enduring charm, the deep blue sea and sky merge into one, a blue that refreshes the soul. Cheshme is a small seaside town near the Aegean Sea, and you can see Greece across the sea. The town is very small, and you can probably walk around the town center in half an hour. There are almost no other attractions except for the Cheshme Castle. When you come to Keszthely, don't miss this castle, which is also the highest point of the town. Climbing up to the top, you can enjoy the fantastic view not only of the whole town of Keszthely, but also of the Aegean Sea and the lovely Greece in the distance. If you climb up in the afternoon, you can also wait for a sunset here. Climb to the top of the castle, and the romantic Aegean Sea lies beneath your feet. The deep blue sea reflects the entire ancient castle. Here, everything seems harmonious in color, and any snapshot is a favorite scene. If you are tired of the fast-paced life, remember to come here for a walk, enjoy the sea breeze, admire the ancient flower stone house, and have a cup of coffee by the sea. Watching the sunset and sitting on the bench by the Aegean Sea, feeling the sea breeze is also very pleasant. If you have enough time, it is recommended to spend an extra day here. This beautiful seaside town, like most towns in Turkey, has a relatively slow pace of life, suitable for savoring slowly. Tips: 1. Departing from Izmir, Turkey, taking a bus, you can reach the peninsula town of Cesme on the Aegean Sea in just over two hours. 2. The sun in Cheshmeh-ye Raz is quite strong, so be sure to protect yourself from sunburn.

Cesme Castle 🏰

#2024wish Just had an amazing visit to Cesme Castle! 🏰💫 The 25 TL entrance fee was a small price for the grandeur and history wrapped within this seaside marvel. #CesmeCastleAdventure #HistoricalGem Perched on a hill overlooking the Aegean Sea, the castle offers breathtaking panoramic views. The moment you step through its ancient gates, you're transported back in time. 🌊🏰 The well-preserved walls, towers, and cannons speak volumes about the castle's military significance throughout history. Exploring the ramparts and imagining the strategic importance of each corner was a true journey into the past. ⚔️🏹 The inner courtyard is a serene oasis with blooming flowers and shaded areas. It's the perfect spot to take a break, soak in the history, and appreciate the architectural beauty of the castle. 🌺🏰 The Cesme Marina, just a stroll away, is a lively hub with cafes and shops. It's an excellent place to unwind, enjoy local cuisine, and absorb the coastal atmosphere. ⚓🍽️ The nearby Cesme Museum and Ayios Haralambos Church offer additional glimpses into Cesme's rich history and cultural heritage. Exploring these sites adds depth to the overall experience. 🏛️🕍 Post-castle, a leisurely walk along Cesme's charming streets, lined with Ottoman-era houses, is a delightful way to soak in the local charm and discover hidden gems. 🚶♂️🏡 Cesme Castle is not just a historical site; it's a cultural and visual feast. The combination of its strategic location, architectural splendor, and nearby attractions make it a must-visit destination on the Aegean coast. #CesmeHistory #CastleWithAView

Before coming to Izmir, you must understand ~ Turkey's unmissable Aegean seaside town

When traveling to Turkey, of course, you can't miss the beauty of the Aegean Sea: Izmir! This is the intertwining of tradition and modernity, the collection of history and beautiful scenery, it deeply touches us and is refreshing. The entire city surrounds a huge bay, and you can see all kinds of yachts, ships and ferries dotted among them ~ As the end of the ancient 'King's Road' spanning Anatolia to the Persian Gulf, Izmir is still the focus of tourism and entertainment. The streets of Izmir are covered by palm trees with annual rings, and the sidewalks become more beautiful due to the embellishment of nature ~ The elegance of the buildings from the inside out hits the soul. The city's coastline is famous for its coastal natural scenery and delicious food ~ famous seafood restaurants, first-class cafes, rich Aegean cuisine and other leisure and entertainment facilities are all heart-warming! Inland, there are a large number of ruins and monuments, they tell countless stories of ancient civilizations. And coming to Izmir, of course, you can't miss going to Cesme and Alacati, one of the cutest towns in Turkey, and my favorite place in Turkey besides Istanbul! Cesme is the most popular holiday destination on the Aegean Sea coastline, with renovated stone houses, charming boutique hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues all over the streets, and more beautiful bays and beaches than other places ~ The Cesme Castle located by the sea is an unmissable place to overlook the whole city ~ It is also a museum ~ Going in and climbing the castle is definitely a stop that can't be missed in Izmir·Cesme, worth savoring and appreciating.

The Reges, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in Cesme, a small town on the Aegean Sea in Turkey, is so beautiful!

A must-visit place when traveling to Turkey~ Of course, it includes the beauty of the Aegean Sea: Izmir! It is a blend of tradition and modernity, a collection of history and beautiful scenery, deeply touching us and refreshing. The entire city surrounds a huge bay, and you can see various yachts, ships, and ferries dotted among them~ As the end of the ancient 'King's Road' spanning from Anatolia to the Persian Gulf, Izmir is still the focus of tourism and entertainment. The streets of Izmir are shaded by palm trees with rich annual rings, and the sidewalks become more beautiful due to the embellishment of nature~ The elegance of the buildings from the inside out strikes the soul. The coastline of this city is famous for its coastal natural scenery and delicious food~ Famous seafood restaurants, first-class cafes, rich Aegean cuisine and other leisure and entertainment facilities are all heart-warming! Inland, there are a large number of ruins and monuments, telling countless stories of ancient civilizations. Of course, when you come to Izmir, you can't miss going to Cesme and Alacati, one of the cutest towns in Turkey, and my favorite place in Turkey besides Istanbul! Cesme is the most popular holiday resort on the Aegean Sea coast, with renovated stone houses, charming boutique hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues all over the streets, and more beautiful bays and beaches than other places, and Cesme Castle, all worth savoring and appreciating.

#bucketlistreboot Ephesus left over of the Old empire in turkey. Many buildings are still intact after few hundred years. The magnificent structure kept me amazed. One of the picture is featuring the coffin - rock coffin that are not buried but left on the surface. A rare site , in fact a huge and rare site which is a must check in again !

This is the landmark of the Library of Celsus, which is also the attraction of a large number of travel enthusiasts who like us to appreciate and explore a history that is not hidden: this year only allowed men to enter. The library, originally hidden inside a tunnel leading to the brothel, provides an excuse for men to return to the land they are really interested in. The wife also thought that her man could study tirelessly in the library for a whole day. The size of the library was then the second largest in Asia Minor. It had a collection of 12,000 books, second only to the city of Bergama. The building faces the east, so the reading room can make the most of the morning light. The library has survived fires and earthquakes, and its front door is still standing. The most recent renovation was in 1970. The four goddesses are clearly visible in the porch of the gate, behind the stone pillars, representing wisdom, destiny, learning, and virtue. Currently seen as a replica, the authenticity is hidden in the Vienna Museum in Austria.

Exploring the Ruins of Ephesus

Ephesus, an ancient city located in modern-day Turkey, was once a bustling metropolis and a major center of trade and commerce in the classical Mediterranean world. Today, it stands as one of the most well-preserved archaeological sites in Europe, offering a vivid portal into the Roman Empire's past. What to Expect Visitors to Ephesus can explore an array of remarkable ruins, including the Library of Celsus, a two-story structure that was once one of the largest libraries of the ancient world, and the Grand Theatre, which could hold 25,000 spectators and still hosts concerts today. The site also includes the Temple of Hadrian, the Odeon, and the sprawling Terrace Houses, which offer a glimpse into the domestic lives of Ephesians with their preserved mosaics and frescoes. Experiences and Recommendations A guided tour can enhance your visit by providing context to the ruins you're seeing, explaining the city's history and the daily lives of its ancient inhabitants. Walking the Marble Road that leads through the city center, you'll feel connected to the thousands who walked there before you over millennia. For those interested in religious history, the House of the Virgin Mary, a pilgrimage site near Ephesus believed to be where Mary spent her last days, is a short drive away. Tips and Tricks The best times to visit Ephesus are spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the site is expansive and the ground uneven. Bringing water and sun protection is crucial, as shade is limited. Early morning or late afternoon visits can offer softer light for photos and a cooler experience. Personal Reflections Walking through the streets of Ephesus, I was struck by the intricate detail of the carvings on the buildings and the sheer scale of the city. It's a place that truly transports you back in time, making you feel like a spectator of history. Standing in the Grand Theatre, imagining the performances and speeches that took place there, was a highlight of my visit. For history buffs, culture seekers, and anyone fascinated by the relics of ancient civilizations, Ephesus represents a compelling journey through time, filled with awe-inspiring insights into human history and civilization. #EphesusExplorations #AncientRuins #TravelTurkey #HistoricAdventures #CulturalHeritage #StepIntoHistory #mytravelhacks#historicallandmarks#localguides

Library of Celsus: Ancient Marvel in Turkey 🇹🇷

The Library of Celsus, located in the ancient city of Ephesus, Turkey, is a remarkable testament to the architectural and intellectual achievements of the Roman Empire. Built in the 2nd century AD, this grand library served as a monumental tomb for Gaius Julius Celsus Polemaeanus, a Roman senator and governor of the province of Asia. The library's facade, adorned with intricate carvings and statues representing wisdom and knowledge, is a stunning example of Roman architectural design. Its imposing two-story structure once housed thousands of scrolls and manuscripts, making it one of the largest libraries of the ancient world. Despite suffering damage from earthquakes and fires over the centuries, the Library of Celsus underwent extensive restoration in the 1970s, allowing visitors to marvel at its grandeur once again. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Ephesus' rich cultural heritage. Visitors to the Library of Celsus can explore its restored facade, wander through the surrounding ruins of Ephesus, and gain insight into the intellectual legacy of the ancient world. With its historical significance and architectural splendor, the Library of Celsus continues to captivate and inspire visitors from around the globe. #tripstars #travel