İzmir is Turkey's third-largest city, a cosmopolitan Aegean port that blends ancient Greek ruins, Ottoman bazaars, and a modern waterfront promenade. Known for its liberal culture, vibrant café scene, and easy access to Ephesus, Çeşme, and Pamukkale, it serves both history seekers and beach lovers.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Aegean olive oil — look for locally produced bottles (Tariş brand available at supermarkets and bazaar): 150–400 TRY/L (~$4.60–$12 USD)
Tire basma (hand block-printed textiles) — tablecloths and scarves: 100–500 TRY (~$3.10–$15 USD)
Turkish ceramics (çini) — especially blue and white Iznik style: 50–2,000 TRY
Hand-woven carpets and kilims from Kemeraltı: 500–50,000 TRY depending on size and age
Saffron (safran) from local spice shops: 50–200 TRY for 1g (~$1.55–$6.15 USD)
Boyoz — the İzmir pastry — in vacuum-sealed packs for travel: 50–100 TRY
Lokum (Turkish delight) — assorted fruit and nut varieties: 100–300 TRY/500g
Gold jewelry — Kemeraltı has a whole section (Kuyumcular Çarşısı) at competitive prices
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Kemeraltı Grand Bazaar
İzmir's historic bazaar: spices, textiles, leather, jewelry, ceramics, and antiques
Where: Konak, central İzmir
Hours: 08:00–20:00 Mon–Sat; partial Sunday
Tire Salı Pazarı (Tuesday Market)
Famous hand-printed textiles (basma) and regional agricultural produce
Where: Tire, 70 km southeast of İzmir
Hours: Tuesday only, 07:00–14:00
Karşıyaka Covered Market
Local weekly produce market; cheeses, olives, and regional foods
Where: Karşıyaka
Hours: Tue & Fri 07:00–14:00