Izmir Holiday Deals

Holiday In Izmir

If you asked a friend where you should go on your next getaway and that friend said “Izmir”, you’d probably look at them with wonder and bewilderment.

Have no fear, though Turkey’s third-most populous city happens to be one of the more westernised in the country. You’ll notice that whether you spend the day in Konack Square or while sunbathing on the shores of the Gulf of Izmir. Check out our great Izmir holiday packages and then head for the airport!

Things to Do in Izmir

When you arrive in a new destination, you don’t wander aimlessly about town with little to no knowledge of the place, do you? No, you don’t. That’s why you need to kick off your Izmir holiday with a walk through history at the Izmir Archaeology Museum and dive into the past. Many of the artefacts in the museum’s collection come from the Bronze Age and feature things like statuettes, busts, statues and various tools. Those old Greeks and Romans sure knew how to sculpt.

After you’re done looking down the rabbit hole, take a hike up Mount Sipylus—no, not the disease that got Al Capone. Head up to the summit for spectacular views of the Gulf of Izmir and don’t forget to take a picture of the weeping rock. It doesn’t actually weep—we’re not sure why it’s named that, either—but it is a cool rock.

Shopping, Dining & Nightlife

Shopping on a holiday to Izmir has got to include a stop at the historical Kemeralti market district. This place has everything you’ll ever want to buy in Turkey. If you want something that ties the whole room together, grab yourself a hand-woven kilim rug. (The Dude would be so proud!) Turkey is also famous for its ceramics, so don’t forget to give your kitchen some love. A set of blue ceramic plates, bowls and cups will brighten your cabinets.

Take your pick of rides from lastminute.co.nz’s sweet Izmir car hire options and drive yourself around town on a food tour. Zig-zag your way down Kibris Sehitleri sampling the goods from every food cart you can find. Then head over to Karsiyaka Bazaar Street for more delicious street food, because Izmir holidays aren’t complete without downing a couple of simits and balik-ekmek.

The nightlife? Oh, there’s a nightlife. Loosen your collar on the shores of the Gulf of Izmir in the Konack district. Suck down as many Tuborg Golds as you while taking in the salty breeze at a bar on the seaside promenade. If you’re staying in or near the Bayrakli district, you’re in luck. This area is chockablock with swanky cocktail bars and relaxing hookah lounges.

What’s Next

Have we piqued your interest enough? Good, now it’s time to check out our great Izmir packages and start planning your getaway! But don’t just limit yourself to one city. Have a look at our awesome Istanbul packages and spend some time in the former Constantinople.