Weekend Route for Domestic Travellers
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If you have come from another Turkish city for the weekend, this is the classic İzmir day. Boyoz and gevrek in Kemeraltı in the morning, a photo at the Clock Tower, a ferry to Karşıyaka for lokma in the bazaar, an afternoon stretched out on the Kordon, tea at the Asansör and an evening on Kıbrıs Şehitleri. We chose ferries and walking over buses; that is the only way to catch the city's rhythm. Everything is central, no car needed.
Route Stops
The Historical and Lively Shopping Center of İzmir: Kemeraltı Bazaar
Breakfast outside a bakery; boyoz, a boiled egg, tea. Eaten standing, do not mind.
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.
Izmir Clock Tower.
Take the obligatory photo here. Give a few lira to the children selling pigeon feed and let the birds into your frame.
Karsiyaka Market.
Ferry across; lokma in the bazaar and a walk along the shore toward Bostanlı, no rush.
Kordon (First Kordon).
Ferry back to Alsancak and stretch out on the grass; hire a bike or do not, the grass is enough.
Historical Elevator.
Walk to Karataş in the late afternoon; tea and the view on the terrace, the afternoon light is best.
Cyprus Martyrs Avenue.
Have dinner and stay for the live music. It is open late into the night, so you will be sleeping in tomorrow.
