For political reasons, this country seems to be omnipresent in the media and doesn’t appear in a positive way. But you shouldn’t forget, this is a country of beautiful landscapes, amazing beaches and a very interesting history.
And there is Turkish food. It’s variegated and influenced by all kinds of folks of the region. Means, visiting Turkey is a pleasure for the eye and the roof of the mouth.
While the beaches and the famous sights are too crowded in summer with people from everywhere, we can recommend you to come in the beginning of October.
We spent one week in the western part of Turkey with accommodation in Izmir. This was more than enough to see everything we wanted. Temperatures were around 25-30°C. Just perfect!
Izmir
Izmir has a population of 4 million people and is Turkey’s third largest city. It was formerly known by the Greek name Smyrna. Its history dates back to ancient times. Due to its location it was always under different occupation.
There are not a lot of classic sights here. It’s more the flair of the city by the sea which attracts people and tourists The sunset here was amazing.
The tower watch (Saat Kulesi) at the Konak square and the Atatürk monument at the Republic Square (Cumhuriyet Square) are the city’s main landmarks.
People of Izmir are often described as cosmopolitan and secular.
Pamukkale
You probably know it from many pictures. The translation of Pamukkale means cotton castle. This is derived from its look.
The pools attract many visitors each year. Maybe too many as heavy damages are the reason why bathing in the pools is forbidden for now. Visitors can use a few of the small artificial pools.
Pamukkale belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage. Furthermore you can visit the acient Hierapolis with is big theatre, not far from here.
Ephesus
This is a pre ancient Greek city. It was one of the biggest, oldest and outstanding cities in ‘Asia Minor’ back at that time and was located by the sea then.
You can find today’s ruins 70 km south of Izmir. It also belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage and busses full of people visit it every day.
You will go along the main street followed by many other tourists. Middle class intellectuals from all over Europe will find themselves in paradise. And we can’t blame them.
Standing in front of the Library of Celsus or the Temple of Hadrian, maybe even make yourself comfortable at the Big Theatre and then realize how old these bunch of stones are, maybe then you’ll realize how fantastic such places really are.
It’s really impressive and worth seeing. Even in low season this place was crowded. Senior citizens have a lot of time.
Ceşme
This is maybe Turkey’s most beautiful resort. It’s located 80km southwest of Izmir. A lot of Turkish people have their holiday houses here.
The Ilica beach with its crystal clear water and the blue colour of the sea might be a good argument for it. Some even call it Turkey’s Miami Beach.
A different thing is the village itself with its Greek elements, an Ottoman castle building and the 15 fountains, which are spread all over the town. By the way, Ceşme means fountain.
Kuşadasi
The ‚bird’s island’ is also a resort 100km south of Izmir. Kuşadasi exists since ancient times and was trade centre for the Republics of Venice and Genoa. At the beginning of the 15th century it became part of the Ottoman Empire.
Many Turks, but also foreigners have their holiday houses here. Especially English people seem to love it here. Several pubs attract a certain clientele.
If there’s something we missed on our Western Turkey list, please write in the comments below!