İzmir Photo Route in Search of Light
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İzmir's light is soft in the domed streets of Kemeraltı in the morning, hard and bright on the Kordon in the afternoon, and golden from Kadifekale in the evening. We built the route so you can chase all three. Shoot the bazaar and the Clock Tower in the morning and the bay from the Asansör at midday, catch the skyline from the Karşıyaka ferry in the afternoon, and end the day on the Kadifekale walls. A wide angle and a 50 mm are enough, and there is plenty of room for a tripod on the Kordon.
Route Stops
Izmir Clock Tower.
At eight the square is empty, the pigeons and the tower are yours; shoot from a low angle.
The Historical and Lively Shopping Center of İzmir: Kemeraltı Bazaar
Stall details as the shops open, shafts of light in the han courtyards; the traders like posing, just ask.
Located in the Konak district of İzmir, Kemeraltı Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest open-air markets in Turkey, with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. This area has been the center of trade since the Ottoman period and is a popular destination for both local and foreign visitors due to its historical atmosphere and vibrant character.
With its narrow streets, historic inns, mosques, coffee houses, and traditional shops, Kemeraltı offers much more than a classic bazaar. Here, you can find a wide variety of products such as gold and silver jewelry, spices, leather goods, antiques, handmade carpets, textile products, and souvenirs. The authentic atmosphere of the bazaar transforms shopping into a delightful and unique experience.
Kızlarağası Inn is one of the most important historical structures in the bazaar. Built in the 18th century during the Ottoman period, this inn now hosts craft shops and coffee houses for its visitors. Especially tasting Turkish coffee brewed over coals in its historic coffee houses is among the top things to do in Kemeraltı.
Kemeraltı also draws attention with its mosques and synagogues that house İzmir's cultural heritage. Hisar Mosque, Şadırvan Mosque, Salepçioğlu Mosque, and Beth İsrael Synagogue are among the religious structures that should be seen in the bazaar.
The bazaar, which is crowded and lively throughout the day, also offers delicious options to its visitors in the evening with its famous dessert shops, restaurants, and small taverns. One of İzmir's most beloved street foods, boyoz and kumru, are must-try delicacies in Kemeraltı.
For those who want to feel the historical texture and explore different cultures while shopping, Kemeraltı Bazaar is one of the best places that reflects the spirit of İzmir.
Historical Elevator.
Walk the shore to Karataş; the panorama of the bay and Konak from the terrace, midday light harsh but wide.
Karsiyaka Market.
Take the ferry from Konak; gulls, the breakwater and the skyline, the crossing itself is the picture.
Kordon (First Kordon).
Return and get off at Alsancak; lawns, bikes and sea in the afternoon light.
Kadife Kale.
Climb to the walls for sunset; the whole bay and the city lights coming on one by one, charge your battery.
