8 February 2023 netnoconorg

Discover Izmir

Ready to make the most of your trip to Izmir?

We are excited to welcome you to İzmir, Turkiye, a city where history, culture, and creativity meet. The official portal Visit İzmir highlights the city’s treasures — from ancient ruins, museums, and sacred sites to gastronomy, handicrafts, festivals, and the beautiful Aegean coast.

The official portal GoTürkiye – İzmir offers inspiration to make the most of your stay: from sustainable hotels and culinary delights to events, routes, and must-see places. Discover “10 vibes of İzmir” to experience the city like a local, or explore how to enjoy İzmir in 48 hours.

 

ALSANCAK DINING GUIDE — İZMIR  

For scholars staying at Swissôtel Büyük Efes All venues within walking distance

RESTAURANTS

Deniz Restaurant — Seafood · Waterfront

A classic İzmir seafood institution right on the waterfront. Known for its fresh calamari, shrimp, octopus, and cold mezze spread. Attentive, professional staff who take the experience seriously. Go at golden hour — the light off the Aegean is genuinely something. Open seven days a week. Hours: Daily 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM | Atatürk Cad. 188/B Maps: https://maps.google.com/?cid=10406276230232395232

Tavacı Recep Usta — Turkish · Meats · Upscale

One of the finest Turkish meat restaurants in Alsancak. Order the kaburga dolma (stuffed rib) or slow-cooked lamb shank — both are exceptional. Unusually generous: salads, tea, and dessert are all included with the main. Elegant interior, uniformed staff, and a dining experience that feels ceremonial in the best sense. Hours: Daily 11:30 AM – 11:30 PM | Atatürk Cad. 364 Maps: https://maps.google.com/?cid=7842367027369270439

Gündoğdu Meyhane — Turkish Tavern · Grills · Live Music

A genuinely lively Turkish meyhane with real cultural atmosphere. Shrimp, salmon, and calamari get consistent praise. Live music most evenings. Reviewers from Italy, Ireland, and the US all describe it as a highlight of their stay — the owner speaks English and engages with guests personally. Open nearly around the clock Monday through Saturday. Hours: Mon–Sat open late · Closed Sundays | Cumhuriyet Blv. 194/A Maps: https://maps.google.com/?cid=12654162751701860458

Magro — Healthy Bowls · Sea View · All-Day

100% the place for people-watching on the kordon. A relaxed, chill waterfront spot with a cozy atmosphere that invites lingering. The salmon bowl is a crowd favourite; the grilled halloumi salad is outstanding. Good lighter meals and vegan options available. Staff speak English well. Avoid the tacos. Hours: Daily 8:45 AM – 11:00 PM | Atatürk Cad. 220/A Maps: https://maps.google.com/?cid=9667966882092182455

La Puerta — Craft Beer · Cocktails · Hidden Bar

A hidden bar tucked behind an unmarked wooden door on a side street — you’d walk right past it. One of the best craft beer selections in Alsancak, and a great atmosphere for winding down after dinner. Go for drinks and the vibe; the kitchen gets mixed reviews so eat beforehand. Hours: Daily 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM | 1469. Sk. 71 Maps: https://maps.google.com/?cid=8960142850994667895

COFFEE & PASTRIES

Marilen Atelier Pâtisserie — Artisan Pastries · Best Espresso

The best pastry spot in Alsancak — and it’s not close. Everything is made in-house; the atelier workshop is visible upstairs. Multiple reviewers compare the croissants to Paris. The espresso is consistently described as the best in the neighbourhood. Try the house lemonade made from an old Levantine recipe. A quiet, elegant side-street gem. Pet-friendly. Hours: Tue–Sun 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM · Closed Mondays | 1387 Ümran Baradan Sk. 1/E Maps: https://maps.google.com/?cid=11842585306567142380

Wake Cup Alsancak — Matcha · Healthy Drinks · Bowls

The go-to spot for matcha in Alsancak — reviewers single it out specifically and emphatically. Also does specialty coffee, healthy bowls, and desserts. A thoughtfully designed, intentional space that feels more considered than most. Good from morning through evening. Open daily. Hours: Daily 8:30 AM – 10:30/11:00 PM | Şevket Özçelik Sk. 18/D Maps: https://maps.google.com/?cid=13391645189707994591

FOOD, MUSIC & LATE NIGHTS

Cafe Plaza — Local Institution · Cocktails · Dancing

A well-established local institution and a favourite among İzmir locals — the kind of place scholars will end up staying far longer than planned. Good cocktails, music, and dancing later in the evening. Described by reviewers as elegant, cozy, and professionally staffed. Open Monday through Friday until 2 AM, Saturday until 3 AM. Hours: Mon–Fri until 2 AM · Sat until 3 AM · Closed Sundays | Dr. Mustafa Enver Bey Cd. 3/A Maps: https://maps.google.com/?cid=12413659076100243539

GLUTEN-FREE

Mystery Foods GF Atelier — 100% Dedicated Gluten-Free

The best gluten-free option in Alsancak — and one of the best in Turkey. A 100% dedicated GF kitchen with zero cross-contamination risk; the owner is celiac herself. The menu covers an impressive range: lahmacun, GF baklava, pizza, burgers, vegan bowls, avocado toast, and brownies. A perfect 5.0★ rating across 275 reviews. Send celiac scholars here without hesitation. Hours: Daily 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM | Kültür Mah., 1375. Sk. 6/C Maps: https://maps.google.com/?cid=12173644874538049346

Antik Gurme Alsancak — Gluten-Free & Ketogenic Specialist

A dedicated health-food bakery and shop stocking gluten-free and ketogenic breads, homemade crackers, mini pastries, and specialty snacks. Reviewers highlight the quality and hygiene, and recommend pairing your shop with a coffee on the premises. A useful stop for scholars who need to stock up on GF and keto products during their stay. Closed Sundays. Hours: Mon–Sat 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM · Closed Sundays | Talatpaşa Blv. 14/B Maps: https://maps.google.com/?cid=ChIJa-4PIKDZuxQRzfduQJI8S6Q

Must-See Cultural Places in İzmir

Many of these sites are featured in our pre-conference Community Tracks and in the post-conference study tour to Ephesus, both offered as optional add-ons. If you prefer to explore the city on your own, here are some of İzmir’s must-see cultural attractions.

(Approximate travel times from İzmir University of Economics Campus) 

1. Agora of Smyrna

A remarkably preserved Roman marketplace located in the city center, offering a glimpse into İzmir’s ancient urban life.
Distance: ~30 minutes by car / ~45 minutes by public transport

2. Kemeraltı Bazaar

One of the oldest and largest open-air markets in Turkey. A maze of shops, mosques, courtyards, and cafés that reflects İzmir’s living heritage.
Distance: ~30 minutes by car / ~45–50 minutes by public transport

3. Kızlarağası Hanı

An 18th-century Ottoman caravanserai (inn) inside Kemeraltı, now filled with artisan shops and traditional cafés.
Distance: ~30 minutes by car / ~45–50 minutes by public transport

4. İzmir Clock Tower (Saat Kulesi)

The iconic symbol of the city, located in Konak Square overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Distance: ~30 minutes by car / ~45 minutes by public transport

5. Asansör (Historic Elevator)

Built in 1907, this historic elevator connects two parts of the city and offers one of the best views of İzmir.
Distance: ~25 minutes by car / ~40 minutes by public transport

6. Kadifekale (Velvet Castle)

An ancient hilltop fortress offering panoramic views of İzmir and the bay.
Distance: ~35 minutes by car
Please note: We recommend visiting Kadifekale only during daytime and preferably with a guide or in a group. While the fortress itself offers spectacular views and historical significance, the surrounding neighborhood is a historically marginalized area with limited tourist infrastructure. It is home to long-established Roma (Gypsy) communities, and streets can be narrow, crowded, and unfamiliar to visitors. Signage, lighting, and visitor services are limited, which can make navigation difficult for first-time travelers. Visiting with a guide or in a group during daylight hours ensures a safer, more comfortable, and more respectful experience for everyone.

7. İzmir Archaeology & Ethnography Museums

AFeaturing artifacts from nearby ancient cities such as Ephesus, Pergamon, and Smyrna.
Distance: ~30 minutes by car / ~45 minutes by public transport

8. Arkas Sanat Museum (Alsancak)

One of İzmir’s leading contemporary art museums, located in a beautifully restored historic building in Alsancak.
Distance: ~30 minutes by car / ~50 minutes by public transport

9. Alsancak & Kordon Seafront (Downtown İzmir)

Main shopping, dining, nightlife, and waterfront area.
Distance: ~30 minutes by car / ~50 minutes by public transport

10. Historical Tram Ride (Alsancak–Konak Line)

A nostalgic tram running along the Kordon seafront, offering scenic views of İzmir Bay. A relaxing way to see downtown.
Distance to tram line: ~30 minutes from IUE to Alsancak

11. Synagogue Street (Havra Sokağı)

A historic Jewish quarter in Kemeraltı reflecting İzmir’s multicultural past.
Distance: ~30 minutes by car / ~45–50 minutes by public transport

12. Karşıyaka & Bostanlı (by Ferry)

Take a scenic ferry ride across İzmir Bay to Karşıyaka or Bostanlı, lively districts known for their cafés, seaside promenades, and local atmosphere. The ferry ride itself is one of the best ways to experience İzmir from the water.
Distance: ~30 minutes to ferry terminal + ~20-minute ferry ride

13. Ephesus and Virgin Mary’s House (Day Trip)

One of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. A visit to the House of the Virgin Mary adds a deeply meaningful spiritual and cultural dimension to the experience.
Distance: ~1.5 hour by car from İzmir

Local Tip: Make the Most of Your Time in İzmir

Many of İzmir’s most important cultural sites are clustered in and around the historic city center. If you have one free day or afternoon, this route lets you see the highlights efficiently without backtracking.

Morning: Ancient & Historic İzmir

Start in the Konak & Kemeraltı area, where several key sites are within walking distance:

  • Agora of Smyrna – Explore İzmir’s Roman-era marketplace
  • Kemeraltı Bazaar – Wander through İzmir’s historic market streets
  • Kızlarağası Hanı – Stop for Turkish coffee in this beautiful 18th-century caravanserai
  • Synagogue Street (Havra Sokağı) – Experience İzmir’s multicultural heritage
  • İzmir Clock Tower (Konak Square) – The city’s most famous landmark

These are all located within a compact area and can easily be explored on foot in 2–3 hours.

Afternoon: Downtown & Art

Head north toward İzmir’s downtown (Alsancak):

  • Arkas Sanat Museum (Alsancak) – Contemporary and classical exhibitions
  • Alsancak & Kordon Seafront – Walk, shop, and relax by the sea

Evening: Across the Bay

End the day with a relaxing ferry ride from Alsancak:

  • Karşıyaka or Bostanlı – Lively seaside districts perfect for dinner, cafés, and sunset walks
    The ferry itself is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience İzmir.

See İzmir in Motion

For a closer look at the city’s beauty and energy, explore the official tourism channel of İzmir. From breathtaking coastlines and cultural landmarks to food, festivals, and local life, the channel brings İzmir’s stories to life in video.

Plan Your Journey to İzmir

Get inspired for your trip with the İzmir Turkey 2025 Full Travel Guide. This video highlights the city’s must-see attractions, local flavors, cultural experiences, and practical tips — a perfect overview to help you make the most of your time during the conference.