Hike up Mount Sipylus and get mesmerizing views of the city of Izmir from the top. Afterward, take a drive to the historic city of Manisa where you can grab lunch at the local bazaar and explore the ancient Roman ruins of Sardis.
Drive to the beach town of Kusadasi and spend the day lounging in the sun, swimming in the ocean, and enjoying water-based activities such as paddleboarding or jet-skiing. Visit Adaland Aquapark, Turkey's largest waterpark, and experience exhilarating water-slides and rides before heading back to Izmir for the night.
Take a day trip to Oludeniz, a unique spot in the world famous for its turquoise waters and famous paragliding opportunities. Afterward, visit Butterfly Valley, a secluded beach that can only be reached by boat. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal clear water, and hike up to the lookout for the best views of the sunset.
Experience the beauty of the Turkish countryside while on a Jeep Safari tour of Ephesus. Afterward, visit the ancient city of Ephesus, the capital city of the Roman province of Asia Minor. The highlight is the Library of Celsus, one of the most impressive buildings in the Roman empire.
On the final day, spend the day exploring all there is to see and do right in the city of Izmir. Try bungee jumping, go-karting, kayak in Seferihisar, or hike up the Monastery of Saint Panteleimon. Cap the night off by relaxing in the Ancient Roman Bath in Agamemnon.
To get around Izmir, consider renting a car or hiring a driver as public transportation can be unreliable. For longer day trips to places like Oludeniz or Ephesus, renting a car or hiring a driver is highly recommended for convenience and speed. Be aware of the time you spend traveling and plan accordingly. Estimated travel costs including fuel, tolls, and rentals can range from $30-$100 per day depending on the mode of transportation and the distance traveled.
If you have an extra day, take a detour to the ancient city of Pergamon, known as one of the most magnificent cities in the ancient world. If you have less time, skip Kusadasi and Adaland Aquapark or Butterfly Valley.
Izmir has one airport named Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), located about 18 km away from the city center. There are direct flights to and from major cities in Europe and the Middle East. International visitors may need to fly into Istanbul or Ankara before taking a connecting flight to Izmir. The airport provides various means of transport, including buses, taxis, and car rentals to get visitors to their final destination.