Hidden Gem in the Aegean: Izmir, Turkiye

Ephesus: A historical city with excavated ruins that showcase a rich history spanning from Ancient Greece to the Roman Empire, during which it thrived as the primary commercial hub in the Mediterranean, and witnessed the growth of Christianity.

House of the Virgin Mary: Christian and Muslim believers often journey to the stone house where they believe Mary, the mother of Jesus, resided for the rest of her life after being taken there by Saint John.

Agora Ruins: The ancient Agora, first constructed by the Greeks in the 4th century B.C., was damaged by a devastating earthquake in 178 AD. The site was designated as a Tentative World Heritage Site in 2020, as a crucial component of "The Historical Port City of Izmir."

Kemeralti Bazaar and Konak Square: Konak Square is home to the iconic clock tower, serving as the heart of the city. Adjacent to the square is the bustling Kemeraltı bazaar, where numerous shops can be found. A visit to Kızlaragası Han (Old Bazaar) for a traditional Turkish coffee comes highly recommended.

Jewish Heritage Tour: Izmir is one of the cities that houses three major religions. It has many Jewish heritage sites and synagogues. I highly recommend arranging your tour ahead of time.

Urla: A small town just outside of the city center, about thirty-minutes' drive away, which has beaches, amazing food locations and also wineries where you can taste the local wine.

Cesme: During the summer, Izmir offers multiple good locations to swim and even windsurf. Cesme has a lot of good beach clubs and public beaches and if you are into windsurfing I would highly recommend going to Alacati Surf Club, where world championships are held.

Breakfast:

Alsancak Dostlar Firini: Have you tried the famous "Boyoz" yet? It's a popular breakfast option in Izmir, and this bakery is where it all began.

Filozof Kahvalti: The Turkish breakfast spread is very famous, where all different types of jams, cheese, eggs and deli food are served in the middle of the table to share, served with Turkish Tea. This place is located in Karsiyaka and I highly recommend it.

Lunch & Dinner:

Deniz Restaurant: It's one of the well known restaurants for meze (appetizers) and fish from the Aegean Sea. Fish are caught daily and brought over. You can also enjoy a glass of raki, a spirit that's usually drunk mixed with water and ice. (Please drink responsibly).

Izmir Veruna Gezgin: The owner is known for traveling the world and collecting memorabilia from his trips. The walls are covered with signage and license plates from all around the world, even from the small U.S. States. While enjoying the bar's food and drinks, walk around and see if you can spot your local license plate.

Kasap Fuat Alsancak: This place is originally a butcher shop at the front, but at the back they have an amazing restaurant, where the food is great. You can make your meat selection from the butcher case, and head to your table to have it once it's cooked. This is a hidden gem, known by locals. You should think about reserving a spot ahead of time for dinner.

OD Urla: Luxurious farm to table restaurant. People all around Turkiye come and eat here. Chef Osman Sezener creates an amazing menu and ambiance. OD Urla is now part of the famous Michelin Guide.

Donerci Vedat Usta: Doner is a popular Turkish kebab that many people love. Donerci Vedat Usta operates two locations with a simple menu where they focus on doing one thing, but doing it very well. You can enjoy delicious doner and refreshing yayik ayran (yogurt drink), which comes in a personal bowl with a small ladle, topped with delicious foam. Don't forget to try their special dessert to finish off a meal with the complimentary Turkish Tea.