Izmir is a picturesque city with a rich history, which is the third largest city in Turkey and the second most important port of the country. Traveling to Izmir is suitable for those who want to enjoy the historical and cultural values of Turkey. Izmir can rightfully be called one of the most picturesque places. This city can safely be called one of the main Turkish attractions.
There is a legend that the city of Izmir was built and named after the queen of the Amazons - Smyrna, and in ancient times was a significant city, its importance is compared to the well-known Troy.
Today the city can be called the largest business center of the country. A large number of historical sights, beautiful squares, a variety of museums and the beauty of nature attract thousands of tourists here.
Climate
The city of Izmir has a moderately warm climate. It has hot summers and fairly mild winters. The period of greatest precipitation is from November to March, in summer there is practically no precipitation. The average winter temperature reaches 14 degrees above zero. It is very rare to see snow here, which melts immediately after falling. It is quite hot here in summer, the temperature rises to 32 degrees above zero during the day and 20 degrees at night. The water temperature in summer is +26 C. The most comfortable period for recreation is the months from May to October.
Nature
The city of Izmir is distinguished by its picturesqueness. Izmir is surrounded on all sides by hills and mountains, which are densely covered with forests. A large number of orchids and evergreen shrubs grow in the city. The Meles River, the main local source of fresh water, flows near the city.
Sightseeings
Over the course of its long history, Izmir has accumulated a huge number of attractions, the main ones being:
- Saat Kulesi - Ottoman clock tower (1901)
- Church of St. Polycarp
- Kadifekale Castle
- Agora (market square)
- ancient elevator
- museum named after Ataturk
- Archaeological Museum
- Agamemnon's source
Food
Izmir cuisine offers a wide range of Turkish dishes. Among the signature dishes that are prepared only in Izmir, it is worth highlighting cutlets with the addition of sesame, lamb cutlets with the addition of tomato sauce.
The close proximity to the sea has determined the presence of a huge number of seafood dishes here. The locals' favorite desserts are dates and nuts, Turkish delight and baklava.
For those who like strong drinks, Izmir offers raki, aniseed vodka that is diluted with water when consumed, Turkish wine and beer. During the day, locals prefer different types of tea, coffee, as well as mineral water and ayran.
