When people think of taking a city break in Turkey, the first destination that springs to mind is Istanbul however Izmir is another Turkish city that provides just as much fun and intrigue as its bigger counterpart. Izmir is the third largest city in Turkey after Istanbul and Ankara and it has a wealth of historical sites to delight history lovers, its bars and restaurants will satisfy those who like fine dining and its sprawling metropolis of shops will certainly give bargain hunters a run for their money.

The city of Izmir runs alongside the Aegean Sea so it is also a major hub for business and leading the way for new trends and fashion in Turkey. It is a bustling and active city that will give you a wonderful insight into Turkish living, culture and traditions. Read on if you still need to be persuaded that Izmir makes a great city break holiday in Turkey

Eating out in Izmir

One thing that this city does well is the ability to provide cuisine that satisfies the palette of everyone. Holiday makers missing their western fast food will find McDonald’s are everywhere while those who want fine dining can taste the food of the best five star chefs in Turkey.

However to eat like the locals do, you have to sample Turkish street food. From the simple Doner kebab to the Jacket potatoes (kumpir) to mixed toasted sandwiches, they are all delicious food to eat on a cheap budget. Don't forget, that Izmir lies next to the Aegean Sea so fish dining is also a popular trend to follow. Turks do not believe in rushing their food so choose your fish from the wide selection and then sit down to enjoy a fine evening in good company with the freshest fish meal you ever tasted.

Nightlife in Izmir

This is where all the fun begins. Down old cobbled streets, you will find Turkish bars that the locals head to. Experience something traditional as you listen to live bands playing Turkish music while sipping on the national drink of Raki and smoking a nargile pipe filled with fruit flavored essence. The young at heart will of course want to head to the large nightclubs that keep you partying until sunrise. Drinks in these nightclubs can be expensive but the experience of the Turkish dancing scene more than makes up for it.

Shopping in Izmir

It is quite easy to shop all week in Izmir. From the brand name western stores that line the busy streets to the more traditional shopping bazaar of Kemeralti. We prefer to head to the bazaar as this gives us a chance to practice our bartering skills and line up some great bargains. There are also some great boutique shops that showcase the latest unique designs to make heads turn with cosmopolitan fashion.

Things to do

As Izmir is located next to the Aegean Sea, there are daily ferries that will take you to sample the delights of the Greek islands. A holiday in Turkey can be combined with Greek influences to ensure you make the most of your holiday. History lovers should head to the Agora, castle and eight museums which showcase the pride of Turkey in the form of archeology, fine arts and ethnography. The cable cars will give you a bird eyes view of the third largest city of Turkey while Izmir zoo will delight the children with its wide variety of exotic and domestic animals.

Izmir is an amazing experience of city life in another country. Take your friends and family to explore the sprawling streets of the old town and the cosmopolitan trends. While it is not as big as Istanbul, it still offers a lot to thousands of visitors that enter its boundaries every year. After all, Izmir has not earned the nickname of the "pearl of the Aegean sea" for nothing.

Natalie Sayin, My Destination Aegean Coast
December 2011