Last Updated: October 2024
About Izmir
İzmir is Turkey’s 3rd largest city with over 5 million inhabitants and it has excellent direct flight connections to all of Europe and the surrounding region. İzmir is also one of the most liberal cities of Turkey as well. Historically, until the WW1 and Turkish Independence War at the beginning of the century, it was predominantly a Greek Orthodox and a Catholic Levantine port city. Greece and Turkey signed a treaty to exchange their populations based on religion which took away from the diversity of the city. It’s a great hub if you’re exploring the world famous historical sites and resort towns including Ephesus, Çeşme, Alaçatı, Kuşadası, Pammukkale, Urla, Sirince and more.
11 Spots in İzmir Not to Miss
- Konak Square & Clock Tower – The iconic heart of İzmir, where the city’s diverse energy is palpable, ideal for people-watching and embracing local life.
- Alsancak Neighborhood – A lively area with trendy bars, cafés, and a welcoming LGBTQ+ scene, particularly around Kıbrıs Şehitleri Street.
- Kordon (İzmir Waterfront Promenade) – Stretching along the Aegean coast, it’s perfect for sunset walks and romantic moments.
- Konak Pier – Originally designed by Gustave Eiffel, this historic pier is now a chic shopping and dining spot, blending history with modern elegance.
- Basmane Gar (Basmane Train Station) – A historic train station with architecture influenced by Gustave Eiffel, it’s a gateway to the city’s past and a nostalgic spot for travelers.
- Kadifekale (Velvet Castle) – Overlooking İzmir, this ancient fortress offers peaceful moments and stunning city views.
- Kemeraltı Bazaar – A bustling market full of unique finds, where locals and travelers alike can explore its vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
- Asansör (Elevator Tower) – Another creation influenced by Gustave Eiffel, this historic elevator provides sweeping views of İzmir’s skyline and a romantic atmosphere.
- Agora Open Air Museum – Roman ruins nestled in the city center, perfect for history lovers seeking a quiet, reflective experience.
- Karşıyaka – A charming neighborhood across the bay, known for its relaxed vibe, chic cafés, and parks popular with LGBTQ+ visitors.
- Bostanli Observation Terrace – A wonderful seaside park to watch sunsets from, easily accessible by tram.
About Çeşme & Alaçatı
Çeşme has always been a favorite getaway for Turks especially from İstanbul, Ankara & İzmir but Alaçatı, an enclave within, has only gained its current international popularity in the last decade. Up until now, the town had been a well kept secret especially among the surf community. Doug and I spent three amazing days in the area and covered a lot of ground in both towns.
We spent two nights at the fabulous Cocopalm Suites in Alaçatı, the property is managed by two fabulous ladies and they speak English. The massive Turkish breakfast is included. It also features a gorgeous fireplace & backyard with a pool.
Alaçatı is known for its vibrant main cobblestone street which is packed with many cafes, tavernas and shops. There’s even a drag cabaret called Cahide that’s wildly popular.
Çeşme proper, is home to Southern California-like summer houses, a town center with a historical castle and a marina in the heart of it.
Çeşme and Alaçatı are well connected through public transport (explained below) and you can stay in either and still enjoy both towns.
HOW TO GET THERE:
The closest airport is the İzmir International Airport (ADB) that offers direct flights to most European hubs. There’s a direct Havaş shuttle bus to Çeşme and Alaçatı from the airport that’s conveniently scheduled to accommodate domestic arrivals. The cost is 35 TL per person each way. The bus drops you off at the Alaçatı Bus Terminal which is walking distance to the town center. The ride takes about 90 minutes. The airport is also well connected to the city through the direct metro link in case you’d like to spend a few nights in İzmir after visiting Alaçatı & Çeşme (strongly recommended). For reference, İzmir is Turkey’s third largest city with a pop of 5M and is the Greater İzmir Region is home to many fabulous seaside towns like Çeşme, Urla, Alaçatı and Foça.
Çeşme is the main town and is a short dolmuş (mini bus) ride away. Dolmuş is jan extremely convenient way of getting to/from nearby towns and private beach clubs. Between the centers of Çeşme and Alaçatı, it only takes 6 TL and 20 minutes. They run through 1am every night.
There’s a nude-friendly gay beach located just outside the Altınkum Beach, definitely worth a visit. Bring your own drinks and snacks as it doesn’t have any vendors nearby. For its exact spot, simply Google and you’ll find a detailed article written by a Turkish Gay blog. Speaking of the gay life, people in this region are extremely liberal and the daily life is very comparable to what you’d find in Croatia or Greece. My boyfriend and I often walked hand in hand and didn’t refrain from light PDA, and while being gay has never been and is not illegal in Turkey, it’s common sense to stay alert. Tourism police is often present in busy areas and if you ever need help, do not hesitate to ask for help in English.
Things to Do in Çeşme & Alaçatı
Alaçatı
- Alaçatı Port to watch surfers
- Alaçatı Windmills
- Happy hour & dinner at YEK, with local wines and the best views of Alaçatı.
Çeşme:
- Spend the afternoon the fabulous public beach of Ilıca that offers warm waters and a clean, blue flagged sand beach.
- Çeşme Castle
- Çeşme Marina
- I have not done it this time but check out popular private beaches like Momo and FlyInn where you pay about 150 TL to enter & have a chair and umbrellas, where you have more of a party scene going on all day around you. Otherwise you can bring your own beers or drinks to the public beach and it’s perfectly fine to consume them there.
PROUD PASSPORT 
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