Izmir is located on the north-western side of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast situated in the very heart of the Aegean Region offering dreamy golden beaches, an abundance of natural beauty, amazing ancient ruins, luxurious hotels and incredible amenities. Izmir has it all!!!
Below are reasons why Izmir is the place to be this Summer……
Kusadasi
One of the most fabulous resorts of Turkey’s Izmir region is none other than Kusadasi. This resort offers a terrific variety of amenities to suit everyone. Kusdasi offers a whole host of fabulous all-inclusive hotels and family friendly resorts, lovely shops, pleasant cafes and great bars and restaurants.
The resort is also home to a wonderful harbour and marina, ancient historical sites, as well as breath-taking scenery like the beautiful Dilek Peninsula National Park.
If you are in search of old traditional style Turkey then you can enjoy roaming around the cobbled streets, visit the old mosques and the old-school tavernas and bazzars.
Kusadasi is home to a number of beautiful beaches where you can soak up the sun before cooling off in the clear blue waters or why not take part in some water sport activities like surfing.
Explore the Ancient World
The ancient ruins of Ephesus is a “must see” historical landmark when visiting Turkey and is one of the largest and most impressive ancient sites in the world. Ephesus made the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 2015.
The ancient city is located 80 kilometres from Izmir close to the lovely towns of Selcuk and Sirince. A whopping 14 million tourists visit the site every year. People say that if the success of Ephesus had continued then it would have even rivalled Rome.
Not only was Ephesus an importance as an Aegean trading port but it was also a very important part of Christianity. History shows us that Saint John, Saint Paul and the Virgin Mary spent time at Ephesus. The famous Artemis riots also took place here in the large theatre.
There is much to see and explore at Ephesus!!
Turkey’s Cotton Castle
The Pamukkale aka Cotton Castle is another of Turkey’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. This is a natural wonder of snow white hot springs set near to Denizli. The Pamukkale offers natural calcium water filled pools dotted over a hillside. You can take a dip in the hot natural waters, perfect for relaxation and are known for their healing powers, while gazing out at the beautiful views over the village and the spectacular surrounding landscape.
After you have enjoyed paddling about in the warm waters, take a trip to the Pamukkale Museum located within walking distance. Here you will see a collection of artifacts and historical statues and some great exhibitions of artifacts uncovered in the ancient cities of Hierapolis and Laodicea.
Pamukkale is by far one of Turkey’ most miraculous and unqiue sites, and even the worlds!!
Coastal towns and seaside villages
Izmir offers a number of lovely, laid back coastal towns and pleasant seaside villages nestled within the scenic hillsides and along the Izmir coast.
There is the wonderful Cesme, a much loved town offering the fantastic Genoese castle, lovely cobbled streets filled with brightly coloured houses and a delicious selection of local food all set around a fabulous marina.
Lovely Urla is also worth a visit. This wonderful town is known for its amazing vineyards, where you can enjoy a tasting the locally produced wines or why not book a tour.
There are three delightful villages, Sirince, Sigacik and Alacati, offering narrow streets filled with craft shops, boutiques, local arts and restaurants serving traditional local cuisine.
Something for the whole family
Located near to the Izmir area are three superb waterparks. This makes a fantastic day out for all the family and is perfect for keeping the kids entertained with hours of endless fun. Kids of all ages will have a blast zooming down the slides, speeding down on the flumes and enjoy swimming in the wave pools. There is also something for the adults. You can enjoy lounging around in the lazy river or enjoy relaxing in the Jacuzzi’s.
If you are in search of something a little more peaceful but still wanting a nice day out with the family then check out the nearby wildlife park or you can always visit some of the local art galleries.
Beaches of Izmir
Izmir enjoys an abundance of glorious golden stretches of sand running alongside crystal clear blue waters. A day at the beach is perfect for simply relaxing and sunbathing under the sun, cooling off in the turquoise waters or taking part in water sport activities.
A beach that is well worth the visit is Ladies Beach in Kusadasi. This popular beach offers a big sweep of golden sand, a great selection of water sports and is backed by a lovely promenade filled with a splendid range of bars and restaurants. This is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy soaking up the Aegean sun.
Kusadasi is bustling with many other golden sand beaches to explore.
If you are looking for a quieter beach and to be away from the crowds then venture over to Green Beach or Yilanci Burnu. These beaches offer a much calmer atmosphere, the perfect oasis.
Sources: dailymail.co.uk/travel
