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The peak time to visit Izmir is during the summer season, from May to August. It is warm and sunny at about 78-91 deg F with little rainfall and extended hours of daylight. This would translate into maximum possible time for sightseeing and enjoying the traditional culinary arts of the city. You can also visit here during the winter season (from mid-November to March) if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative. It would be much cooler and rainier at about 54-65 deg F, but you might get some discounted deals on flights and accommodation.
The city is served by Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport. This international airport is the 5th busiest in the country, and is owned by the General Directorate of State Airports of Turkey. It is a hub for Pegasus Airlines, Izair, SunExpress and Turkish Airlines. The airport offers connectivity to a number of domestic and international destinations including Istanbul, Ankara, Berlin, Amsterdam, Oslo, London and Munich. The airport also offers a number seasonal and seasonal charter flights to a number of destinations.
Places of Interest in Izmir
Izmir is a 3000 year old port city and one of the oldest settlements along the Mediterranean Sea in Turkey. Founded by the Greeks and a subject of numerous kingships, it has evolved into the leading export outlet through the sea. Though most of the ancient monuments of the city were razed in a war in 1922, some of them are still remaining and you can visit them to get a glimpse of life as it used to be here. Some of the highlights here are Kemeralti Carsisi (a historical market), Izmir Clock Tower and Kadifekale.
Kemeralti Carsisi
Kemeralti Carsisi is a historical market district in Izmir. It extends from the ancient Roman remains of the ancient city at Agora to the seashore. This 17th century labyrinthine market is the best place in the city for shopping of leather goods, clothing, jewellery, traditional household items and items made of flowers and beads.
Izmir Saat Kulesi (Izmir Clock Tower)
Izmir Clock Tower is a centennial clock tower located in Izmir. This clock tower (estd: 1901 AD) is a classical triumph of Ottoman architecture style and was built to commemorate 25 years of king Abdulhamid II's reign. Its clock was gifted by Germany’s central figure of First World War, King Wilhelm II. This clock tower was depicted on the Turkish 500 lira banknotes during 1983-89.
Kadifekale (the Velvet Castle)
Kadifekale is the name of a hill and an ancient castle on top of the same hill in Izmir. This ancient castle is flanked by five towers and offers a stunning cityscape of the vibrant seaside city below. Common folklore assumes that after Alexander the Great had relocated a part of the city near the hill, his successor Lysimachos had built this castle.