Morning: Arrive at Paris‑Charles de Gaulle Airport and take a quick taxi ride to your hotel in the city center. Settle in, freshen up, and sip a café au lait at a nearby café.
Afternoon: Wander to the iconic Eiffel Tower and enjoy the view from the second level; the surrounding Champ de Mars offers great photo spots. Stroll along the Seine, stopping at the Musée du Quai Branly for a glimpse of world cultures.
Evening: Dine in the Latin Quarter and try classic French dishes. Conclude with a leisurely cruise on the Seine, passing illuminated monuments.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit the world‑famous Louvre Museum to see the Mona Lisa and other masterpieces. Allow time for the nearby Tuileries Garden for a relaxing stroll.
Afternoon: Explore the historic neighborhood of Montmartre, climbing to the Sacré‑Cœur Basilica for panoramic city views. Wander through the vibrant Place du Tertre, where artists showcase their work.
Evening: Enjoy a dinner in the lively Marais district, sampling local bistro fare. End the night with a visit to Notre‑Dame Cathedral (exterior) to admire its gothic façade illuminated at night.
Find HotelsMorning: Check out of your hotel and head to the airport for a non‑stop flight to Izmir. The flight lasts roughly 4 hours.
Afternoon: Arrive at İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport, transfer to your hotel and unwind.
Evening: Take a short walk to Kemal Kaya (Kemeraltı) Bazaar, sampling Turkish delights and local crafts. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a seaside restaurant.
Find HotelsMorning: Explore the historic Konak Square and the iconic Izmir Clock Tower, a symbol of the city. Continue to the nearby Asansör for panoramic views of the Gulf of Ege.
Afternoon: Stroll along the bustling Kemeraltı Market, tasting local street foods such as “simit” and “börek.” Visit the historic Yunus Emre Mosque for a quiet moment.
Evening: Dine at a traditional meze restaurant on the waterfront, watching the sunset over the Aegean. Enjoy a night walk along the promenade.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart early for a guided excursion to the ancient city of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the Marble Road, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis.
Afternoon: Visit the nearby House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred site offering peaceful reflection.
Evening: Return to Izmir; enjoy a light dinner in the lively Kordon area, savoring fresh seafood.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit the Izmir Archeology Museum to see artifacts from the region's ancient past, including artifacts from Ephesus and the Hellenistic period.
Afternoon: Walk through the historic Alsancak neighborhood, known for its charming cafes and boutique shops. Stop at a local café for Turkish coffee and a baklava treat.
Evening: Attend a performance at the Izmir State Opera and Ballet or a traditional Turkish music show.
Find HotelsMorning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a final stroll along the Kordon promenade, soaking up the sea breeze.
Afternoon: Visit the Aegean Sea Museum or shop for souvenirs in Kemeraltı for any last‑minute gifts.
Evening: Early dinner with local dishes, then head back to the hotel to pack for the return flight.
Find HotelsMorning: Check out and head to İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport for a non‑stop flight back to Birmingham. The flight offers a comfortable end to the trip.
Find HotelsIf you have extra days, consider adding a day in Paris to explore the Musée d'Orsay or a day trip to the Château de Versailles. In Izmir, a full‑day trip to the picturesque coastal town of Çeşme can provide beach relaxation. To shorten the trip, reduce the Istanbul stay to two nights and fly directly from Paris to Izmir, saving a day of travel.