Izmir, known in Greek as Smyrna, is a lively Aegean city where ancient history, waterfront life and modern Turkish culture come together. Built around a broad bay, it has been an important trading centre since antiquity and remains one of Turkey’s most cosmopolitan destinations.

Cruise ships usually call at Izmir Port, close to the city centre and the seaside promenade. Izmir is also the gateway to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean. A day in port can therefore combine historic ruins with colourful markets, sea views and local cuisine.

Top attractions and sights

Ephesus is the headline excursion from Izmir. The ancient city is famous for the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, marble streets and the remains of the Temple of Hadrian. Nearby, visitors can also see the House of the Virgin Mary and the Basilica of Saint John in Selçuk.

In central Izmir, Konak Square is home to the elegant Izmir Clock Tower, one of the city’s best-known landmarks. From here, it is easy to walk towards the waterfront and the busy Kemeraltı Bazaar, a historic market district filled with shops, cafés and traditional Turkish architecture.

• Kemeraltı Bazaar: Explore atmospheric lanes selling spices, sweets, jewellery, leather goods and souvenirs.
• Agora of Smyrna: See the surviving columns, arches and vaulted structures of the ancient Roman marketplace.
• Kadifekale: Visit the hilltop fortress for broad views across Izmir and its bay.
• Asansör: Ride or walk to this historic public lift, which connects the lower streets with a scenic viewpoint and cafés.
• Izmir Archaeological Museum: Discover statues, coins and artefacts from the ancient cities of the surrounding Aegean region.
• Kordon: Stroll along the popular waterfront promenade, especially attractive in the late afternoon when the bay catches the sunset.

Beaches

Izmir city itself is better known for its waterfront promenade than for central sandy beaches. For a beach-focused day, cruise passengers may consider an organised excursion to destinations around the wider Izmir region, such as Çeşme or the beaches near Urla, although travel time can make these options less practical during a short port call.

Local products and shopping

Kemeraltı Bazaar is the best place to browse for traditional products and gifts. Look for Turkish delight, spices, dried figs, raisins, olive oil, handmade ceramics, copperware, colourful textiles and leather goods. The Aegean region is particularly well known for olives, olive oil and sun-ripened fruit.

Izmir is also associated with delicacies such as boyoz, a flaky pastry traditionally eaten for breakfast, and local sweets including şambali and lokma. Turkish tea glasses, coffee sets and small evil-eye ornaments make compact souvenirs that are easy to take home.

Food and local cuisine

Izmir’s cuisine reflects its Aegean setting, with plenty of olive oil, vegetables, herbs and seafood. Try İzmir köfte, meatballs baked with potatoes and tomato sauce, or sample several small vegetable and seafood dishes known as zeytinyağlılar.

For a quick local snack, order boyoz, often served with a boiled egg, or try kumru, a toasted sandwich associated with nearby Çeşme and commonly enjoyed throughout the region. Finish with şambali, a dense semolina dessert, or warm lokma. Turkish coffee, tea and rakı are also part of the local food culture.

Tips for cruise passengers

Izmir Port is close to the central districts, making it possible to reach Konak Square, Kemeraltı Bazaar and the waterfront by taxi or public transport. The city centre is well suited to walking, although the heat, hills around Kadifekale and busy market streets may make comfortable shoes particularly useful.

• Plan Ephesus carefully: An organised shore excursion is usually the easiest way to visit Ephesus, especially when your ship has a limited time in port.
• For a city day: Start at Konak Square, walk through Kemeraltı Bazaar, visit the Agora and continue along the waterfront towards Kordon.
• Allow time for traffic: Road conditions can affect journeys between Izmir and Selçuk, where Ephesus is located, so return to the ship with a generous buffer.
• Dress comfortably: Ancient sites involve uneven stone surfaces and limited shade, while markets and promenades can be busy during the warmer months.
• Use Turkish lira for small purchases: Cards are widely accepted in modern shops, but cash can be useful in markets, cafés and for small snacks.