6 December 2024 Aleksej Heinze

Accomodation

Welcome to Izmir

We’re excited to welcome you to Izmir for Netnocon 2026! This year’s theme, “Cultural Crossroads,” feels right at home in a city shaped by centuries of exchange, diversity, and shared history.

From its rich maritime legacy to its mouth-watering culinary traditions and warm, welcoming spirit, Izmir sets the stage for lively conversations, lasting connections, and unforgettable moments.

To help make your visit smooth and enjoyable, we’ve compiled essential accommodation tips and early recommendations below.

Conference venue address:

Izmir University of Economics, Fevzi Çakmak, Sakarya Cd. No:156, 35330 Balçova/İzmir

Flights to İzmir

İzmir is served by Adnan Menderes International Airport (ADB), which offers convenient connections from Europe, the Middle East, and North America.

From Europe

İzmir has many direct flights from major European cities such as:
Frankfurt, Munich, London, Amsterdam, Paris, Rome, Milan, Vienna, Zurich, and others.
Most flights are operated by Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, SunExpress, Pegasus, and other European carriers.

From the United States

There are no direct flights from the U.S. to İzmir, but İzmir is easily reached via one connection, most commonly through:

  • Istanbul (IST or SAW)
  • Frankfurt
  • London
  • Paris
  • Amsterdam

Turkish Airlines offers especially smooth one-stop connections via Istanbul from cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington DC, Houston, Seattle and San Francisco.

From the Middle East

There are frequent direct or one-stop connections from cities such as:
Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Jeddah, Kuwait, and Beirut — usually via Istanbul or major European hubs.

Important Arrival Note (Baggage & Immigration)

If you arrive in İzmir via a connecting international flight through Istanbul, your connection flight to İzmir will arrive at the Domestic Terminal. However, if your luggage was checked through to İzmir (ADB) at your departure airport, you won’t be able to collect your bags at the domestic baggage claim.

Once you land to Izmir, follow the signs that say “Arriving international passengers whose baggage was checked through and not collected in Istanbul” (or similar). These signs are specifically for passengers whose luggage was sent directly to İzmir from an international flight. You will need to go to the International Terminal at İzmir Airport to collect your luggage. Your bags will be delivered to a designated international baggage belt (usually Belt 6).

Please be sure to follow the airport signs and do not exit the domestic arrivals area before collecting your luggage from the international baggage claim.

Even if your first flight lands in Istanbul or another hub, İzmir is where you officially enter Turkey for immigration and baggage claim.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are our top hotel recommendations for NETNOCON 2026 attendees:

1) Kaya İzmir Thermal & Convention

  • Star Rating: ★★★★★ (5‑star)
  • Address: Ilıca Mahallesi, Zeytin Sokak No. 112, Balçova (Narlıdere), İzmir, 35320, Türkiye
  • Travel distances between Izmir University of Economics and your hotel
    • by walking: 24 minutes (1.6km but downhill/uphill)
    • by car/taxi: 4–6 minutes

2) Balçova Termal Hotel

  • Star Rating: ★★★★ (4‑star)
  • Address: Vali Hüseyin Öğütçen Cad. No. 2, Balçova, İzmir, 35330, Türkiye
  • Travel distances between Izmir University of Economics
    • by walking: 15 minutes (1km)
    • by car/taxi: 4 minutes

3) Hyatt Regency İzmir IstinyePark

  • Star Rating: ★★★★★ (5‑star)
  • Address: Bahçelerarası, Şehit Binbaşı Caddesi, 35330 Balçova, İzmir, Türkiye
  • Travel distances between Izmir University of Economics
    • by walking: Not recommended (approx. 3.1 km with busy roads)
    • by car/taxi: 8–10 minutes

4) Wyndham Grand İzmir Özdilek Thermal and Spa (formerly Crowne Plaza İzmir)

  • Star Rating: ★★★★★ (5‑star)
  • Address: İnciraltı Caddesi No. 67, Balçova, İzmir, 35340, Türkiye
  • Travel distances between Izmir University of Economics
    • Walking: Not recommended (approx. 3.8 km with busy roads)
    • By Taxi: 7–10 minutes
Please note that travel times may vary depending on traffic. We strongly recommend planning ahead and using a navigation app such as Google Maps to simulate your route.

Please see here an interactive map of the hotels below in relation to the red marker for IUE campus:

Taking a Taxi or UBER in Izmir

Taxis in Izmir are easy to recognize, they’re bright yellow vehicles with a “TAKSİ” sign on the roof. You’ll often see them lined up at taxi stands near hotels, shopping areas, and transport hubs.

However, the easiest and most common way to get a taxi is to simply hail one from the street. Just step to the curb and raise your hand. If the taxi is available, it will stop for you.

Tipping in taxi isn’t required in Izmir, but it’s customary to round up your fare as a polite gesture especially for shorter rides.

Ride-sharing with Uber also operates in İzmir, usually by connecting you with licensed local taxis through the app for a convenient, cashless experience. Lyft is not available in İzmir.

Rental cars

İzmir offers a wide range of reliable car rental options, especially at Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) and in the city center. We recommend booking in advance, particularly during the summer season.

Well-known international and local providers include:
Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Garenta, and Circular Car Hire.

A rental car is highly recommended, especially if you plan to extend your stay and explore nearby summer destinations such as Urla, Çeşme, and other coastal towns in the region.

Please note that traffic in İzmir—especially during summer—can be heavy, and driving in busy areas may be challenging for visitors. We recommend allowing extra travel time and using GPS or navigation apps when driving in and around the city and surrounding areas.

Çeşme & Urla: Weekend Getaway Near Izmir

Planning to extend your stay? Consider spending an extra day or two in the scenic Aegean towns of Çeşme or Urla. These vibrant summer retreats offer a refreshing break from city life and the perfect way to unwind after the conference.

  • Çeşme is a lively beach destination known for its turquoise waters, boutique hotels, and vibrant nightlife and windsurfing scene. It’s ideal for those looking to combine conference travel with seaside relaxation. Çeşme is about 60 minutes from the university via highway

  • Urla, on the other hand, is a slower-paced haven famous for its vineyards, farm-to-table cuisine, and artistic vibe. It’s perfect if you’re seeking peace, nature, and authentic Aegean charm. Urla is about 40 minutes from the university via highway

Tip: Renting a car is recommended if staying in Çeşme or Urla, as public transport options can be limited or time-consuming for daily travel to the conference venue.

Some hotel recommendations in Çeşme:

1) Swissotel Resort Çeşme

A luxury beachfront resort offering top-tier amenities, modern rooms, and beautiful views of the Aegean. Ideal for those looking to combine business travel with a high-end coastal getaway.

  • Star Rating: ★★★★★ (5‑star)
  • Highlights: Spa, pools, beachfront access, fine dining
  • Approx. Travel Time to İzmir University of Economics: ~1 hour by car (can be more depending on the traffic)

2) Altınyunus Resort & Thermal Hotel – Çeşme 

One of Çeşme’s iconic seaside resorts, offering thermal spa services and a family-friendly atmosphere. A great balance of comfort, recreation, and relaxation.

  • Star Rating: ★★★★★ (5‑star)
  • Highlights: Private beach, thermal spa, large pool area
  • Approx. Travel Time to İzmir University of Economics: ~1 hour by car (can be more depending on the traffic)

Stay Tuned

For conference short program check here.

Need Assistance?

For any further information about transportation, accommodation, or the conference, feel free to reach out info@netnocon.org.

We look forward to seeing you in Izmir!