Attractions and Places To See in Izmir - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Izmir include a rich array of historical sites and natural landscapes along Turkey's Aegean coast. The city serves as a hub for exploring ancient ruins and vibrant urban areas. Its diverse geography offers both coastal experiences and elevated viewpoints. Izmir provides a blend of cultural significance and natural beauty for visitors.
Best attractions and places to see in Izmir
- The most popular attractions is Celsus Library, a historical site that allows visitors to picture life in antiquity. At its time, it was the third largest library in the world.
- Another must-see spot is Ephesus Archaeological Site, an ancient Greek city on the coast of Ionia. Visitors can expect to see one of the oldest, largest, and most important cities of Asia Minor, which once housed the Temple of Artemis.
- Visitors also love Ancient City of Ephesus, the ancient city from which the later Selcuk emerged. It was one of the most important centers of the Greeks in Asia Minor.
- Izmir is known for its historical sites, religious buildings, and natural landscapes. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to modern urban spaces and coastal areas.
- The attractions in Izmir are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 70 upvotes and over 370 photos shared across 150 highlights.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Celsus Library
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Ephesus Archaeological Site
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Ancient City of Ephesus
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Republic Tree Monument (Cumhuriyet Ağacı Heykeli), Gündoğdu Square
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Gündoğdu Square is one of the city's new main squares. It was built along with the Kordon Esplanade in 2000. Originally, the Esplanade was built with the intention of extending a 6-lane highway from Liman Avenue to the center of Konak, where it would continue on to the O-32 to Çeşme in Balçova. This plan was strongly opposed by many and later turned into a park. The construction of the park and the square was completed in 1999 and officially opened to the public on June 15, 2000.
In 2003, Mayor Ahmet Piriştina asked for a statue to be built to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the republic. Ferit Özşen was chosen to design a statue that was named the Tree of the Republic. Since the square was opened, it has been used for many political rallies by prime ministers and party leaders, as well as for political protests such as the 2007 Republic Protests. Similar to Taksim Square in Istanbul, Gündoğdu Square is the main meeting place in Izmir, especially for the annual demonstrations in May.
Source: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G%C3%BCndo%C4%9Fdu_Square
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Roman Latrines at Ephesus
Highlight • Historical Site
The latrinas were a fairly advanced and civilized structure for their time. The building was built over a canal with a continuous flow of water. The seats were marble benches with holes in the bottom. They were arranged in three rows along the three sides of the room. There were 48 toilets in total, each separated by carved partitions that doubled as armrests. The seats themselves were surrounded by columns that would have supported a roof.
ephesusturkey.com/ephesus-highlights/latrinas
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Asklepieion of Pergamon
Highlight (Segment) • Historical Site
The Asklepieion in its design known today can be traced back to an expansion in the time of Antoninus Pius. The Roman sanctuary was a courtyard surrounded by buildings and halls measuring 110 × 130 meters, with a large forecourt and a propylon in front of it in the east, where the grand avenue ended.
The Roman temple for Asklepios Soter or Zeus Soter Asklepios was located south of the propylon and thus on the edge of the courtyard area. The building is a smaller replica of the Pantheon in Rome. On the south-east corner of the area there was a two-storey rotunda that was used for the spa. It was connected to the cult center of the complex, the sacred, radioactive spring, by an approximately 80-meter-long underground passage.
The south, west and north sides of the courtyard were lined with columned halls, to the north of the north hall and in its western area was a Roman theater, which with its 29 rows of marble seats could hold around 3,500 spectators.
Source: Wikipedia
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Temple of Trajan (Trajaneum)
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During the excavations, fragments of statues of Trajan and Hadrian, especially the portrait heads, and fragments of the cult statue of Zeus Philios were found in the rubble of the cella.
Source: Wikipedia
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Church of Saint Demetrios (Aziz Dimitrios Kilisesi), Şirince
Highlight • Religious Site
The earliest written accounts of the life of Demetrios were collected in the 9th century, although there are some earlier pictures of him. There is also a collection of sermons written in Greek, describing the miracles he performed. According to these early accounts, Demetrios was born into a family of pious Christians from Thessaloniki. He is presented as a young man from a senatorial family who died a martyr's death, run through with spears around 306 CE, during the Christian persecutions of Galerius and Diocletian.
The church dedicated to Saint Demetrios in Şirince was the starting point of a five-hour pilgrimage of the faithful to the House of the Mother of God, now known as Meryemana. The procession started on the 15th of August every year, and followed the trail to the House of Mary on the hill of the Nightingales, on the other side of the town of Selçuk, about 15 kilometres west of Şirince.
These pilgimages continued until the 1920s when the Treaty of Lausanne ordered a population exchange between Turkey and Greece. From that moment the village was inhabited by Muslims. The Church of Saint Demetrios and the Church of John the Baptist were abandoned and gradually fell into disrepair. The roof of the Church of Saint Demetrios collapsed, and the general renovation carried out in 2015 restored the church to its former glory.
While visiting the church, it is worth to pay attention to the preserved iconostasis — a decorative wall of icons and religious paintings, separating the nave from the sanctuary. From the vestibule of the church, there is a beautiful view of the part of the village, olive groves, and arable fields.
(turkisharchaeonews.net/city/%C5%9Firince)
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Yalı Mosque (Konak Mosque), Konak Square
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Source:
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yal%C4%B1-Moschee
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House of the Virgin Mary (Meryem Ana Evi)
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de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haus_der_Mutter_Maria
de.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Ephesos
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Tips from the Community
On Sunday there will be a Holy Mass in English at 10:30 am outside
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The Roman Latrine of Ephesus was built in the 1st century AD as part of what would become the Baths of Scholastica. They were the city's public toilets for poor citizens who could not afford a toilet at home, and an entrance fee was charged. However, the latrines were not used exclusively for relieving oneself. In Roman culture, this building served the same social purpose as the baths. Citizens would stay in the latrines for long periods of time to relax and discuss their daily worries. The latrinas were a fairly advanced and civilized structure for their time. The building was built over a canal with a continuous flow of water. The seats were marble benches with holes in the bottom. They were arranged in three rows along the three sides of the room. There were 48 toilets in total, each separated by carved partitions that doubled as armrests. The seats themselves were surrounded by columns that would have supported a roof. https://www.ephesusturkey.com/ephesus-highlights/latrinas/
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Stature Atatürk as a boy with mother
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You have to study the history to recreate the city in your imagination. Otherwise you only see a few stones.
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The Celsus Library was built around 100 BC. built. At its time, it was the third largest library in the world, after Alexandria and Pergamon. A fire and an earthquake in the 3rd century. AD, destroyed the library and with it the extensive knowledge that was recorded in the many scrolls.
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The Library of Celsus was an impressive ancient library in the city of Ephesus. It was built in the 2nd century AD in honor of the Roman senator Tiberius Julius Celsus Polemaeanus. The library was known for its impressive architecture and its collection of over 12,000 scrolls. The building had two floors and was decorated with statues and reliefs. Unfortunately, over time the library was damaged and largely destroyed by earthquakes and fires. However, some parts of the facade have been preserved and can still be admired today. The Celsus Library is a popular destination for visitors interested in ancient history.
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Ephesus was an ancient city in what is now Turkey and was a major center of Greek and Roman culture. It was known for its well-preserved architecture, including the famous Celsus Library and the Grand Theater. Ephesus was also the site of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today Ephesus is a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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For me as a technician it raises many questions as to how the ancient builders built these gigantic structures on the mountain top...hats off.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most significant historical sites to visit near Izmir?
Izmir is a gateway to some of Turkey's most impressive ancient ruins. You can explore the Ephesus Archaeological Site, an ancient Greek city that once housed the Temple of Artemis. Within Ephesus, don't miss the iconic Celsus Library, known for its grand facade. Another important site is the Ancient City of Ephesus, which was a major center for Greeks in Asia Minor. Further afield, consider visiting the Pergamon Acropolis and its Asklepieion of Pergamon, an ancient medical center.
Where can I find the best panoramic views of Izmir?
For breathtaking panoramic views of Izmir and its bay, head to the Izmir Historic Elevator (Asansör). Another excellent spot is Kadifekale Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the city, offering historical insights along with its vistas.
What natural attractions can I explore in and around Izmir?
Izmir offers diverse natural beauty. The Gediz Delta is an important wetland known for flamingos and other bird species. For a green escape within the city, visit İnciraltı Kent Ormanı. The nearby coastal towns of Çeşme, Alaçatı, and Urla boast beautiful beaches like Altınkum and Ilica, perfect for water sports. You can also explore the unspoiled nature of the Karaburun Peninsula or the pine nut forests of the Kozak Plateau.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Izmir?
Yes, Izmir offers several family-friendly options. The Ancient City of Ephesus is categorized as family-friendly, allowing children to explore ancient history. The Izmir Wildlife Park is another great choice, home to nearly 300 bird species and offering boat tours and hiking trails. The House of the Virgin Mary is also listed as family-friendly.
What outdoor activities and trails are available near Izmir's attractions?
Izmir and its surroundings are great for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find easy hikes like the 'Arcadian Street – Celsus Library loop from Ephesus' or the 'Kordon Waterfront Promenade loop from İzmir'. For mountain biking, there are routes such as the 'View of Samos loop from Cumhuriyet' or the 'Mountainbike loop from Foça'. Running trails include the 'Konak Pier – Izmir Clock Tower loop from Poligon'. For more details on these and other routes, visit the Easy Hikes in Izmir, MTB Trails in Izmir, and Running Trails in Izmir guides.
What is the best time of year to visit Izmir for sightseeing?
The best time to visit Izmir for sightseeing is typically during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasant, with comfortable temperatures ideal for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities without the intense heat of summer.
Are there any significant religious sites in Izmir and its vicinity?
Yes, Izmir has several notable religious sites. In Konak Square, you'll find the beautiful Yalı Mosque (Konak Mosque). Near Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary is a revered pilgrimage site. The Church of Saint Demetrios (Aziz Dimitrios Kilisesi) in Şirince is another historical religious building. Additionally, the Hisar Mosque in Kemeraltı Bazaar is one of Izmir's most significant mosques.
What are some cultural experiences unique to Izmir?
Beyond ancient ruins, Izmir offers vibrant cultural experiences. Explore the bustling Kemeraltı Çarşısı (Bazaar) for traditional crafts and local life. Visit the Izmir Archaeology and Ethnography Museum to delve into the region's rich history. The Atatürk Museum provides insights into the life of the founder of the Turkish Republic. Strolling along the Kordon Promenade offers a glimpse into local leisure and social life.
How can I get around Izmir to visit its attractions?
Izmir has a well-developed public transport system including buses, metro, and ferries, making it easy to reach many attractions. For sites within the city center like Konak Square, the Kordon, and Kemeraltı Bazaar, walking is often the best way to explore. For sites further afield like Ephesus, organized tours or rental cars are popular options.
Are there wheelchair-accessible attractions in Izmir?
Yes, some attractions in Izmir are noted for their accessibility. The Republic Tree Monument (Cumhuriyet Ağacı Heykeli) in Gündoğdu Square is categorized as wheelchair accessible. While ancient sites can be challenging, efforts are often made to improve access where possible. It's advisable to check specific accessibility details for each site prior to your visit.
What can I expect to see at the Agora Open Air Museum?
The Agora Open Air Museum, also known as Smyrna Agora, is an archaeological site in the heart of Izmir dating back to the Roman period. Here, you can explore the remains of ancient public life, including courtyards, gates, and porticoes, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city's past.
Where can I find places to eat or relax near major Izmir attractions?
Near major attractions, you'll find numerous options for dining and relaxation. The Kordon Promenade is lined with cafes and restaurants offering sea views. The Konak Pier, designed by Gustave Eiffel, has been transformed into a complex with dining and shopping. The bustling Kemeraltı Çarşısı (Bazaar) also offers many traditional eateries and tea houses.
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