Kick off your tour with a pick up at your Izmir hotel and then travel with your guide by air-conditioned coach to see the highlights of Izmir. First, head to the ancient Agora and discover the former Roman Bazaar. After marveling at the commanding castle of Alexander the Great, visit both the Archaeological and Ethnographic Museums where you will delve into Izmir’s traditional art and culture.
Highlights include:
Ancient Agora: One of the world’s most well-preserved Agoras was home to a lively Roman bazaar. As you explore with your guide, admire the ancient Colonnades of Corinthian columns, see arched rooms, and glimpse up at rebuilt archways.
Kadifekale: Pick out a spectacular view of Izmir from high atop Alexander the Great's Castle. Learn about the historic ruins of Kadifekale’s whose name translated to Turkish means “the velvet castle.”
Archaeological Museum: Enjoy Roman and Greek artifacts at the Archaeology Museum. Inside, see the head of Domitian, an enormous statue that resided long ago in Ephesus.
Ethnographic Museum: Delve into Izmir’s vibrant arts and crafts at the Ethnographic Museum. Here, gain insight into how embroidery wood-block printing and pottery is created. Then, relish the opportunity to see artisans create the centuries-old Nazar Amulet (Turkish blue and white “evil eye”).
