How to get to Izmir

When planning a trip to Izmir, you are choosing a journey to the "Pearl of the Aegean," the third-largest city in Turkey, where ancient heritage sits alongside modern avenues. This major metropolis and important port boasts excellent transport accessibility: it is easy to reach by plane, bus, or car, as well as by rail. Regardless of your chosen method, the journey to Izmir will be a comfortable start to your acquaintance with the region's rich culture and sunny coast.

The fastest way to reach the city is to use the services of Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), which accepts scheduled flights from all over the world and other regions of the country. This modern aviation hub is located south of the centre and is excellently connected to the city by a transport network.

As an alternative route, some travellers choose to fly to nearby Greek islands followed by a ferry crossing. The closest airports are located on the island of Chios (about 89 km) and in the city of Mytilene (91 km), from where you can reach the Turkish coast by sea.

Contrary to common misconception, Izmir has rail connections: the historic Basmane station in the city centre receives regional trains and compositions from other provinces. Travellers can use the popular "Izmir Mavi Treni" route or arrive with transfers through major railway hubs in Turkey.

If you are considering combined routes via neighbouring countries, it is worth considering logistics through Greek islands such as Chios or Mytilene. However, there is no direct train from Europe to the city itself, and such a trip will require the use of ferries.

Bus services in Turkey are excellently developed, and modern coaches connect Izmir with all major cities in the country. For those arriving via a complex route through Greece, there is an option to travel from the island of Chios: a journey of about 114 km (including the crossing) will take approximately 6.5 hours.

Another, longer option for adventure lovers is the route via Mytilene. The distance here is about 381 km, and the total travel time can reach 29.5 hours due to transport connections. Nevertheless, the main flow of tourists arrives at the city's main bus terminal via direct overland routes.

Travelling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the landscapes of the Aegean coast. When travelling from the island of Chios (using a car ferry), the distance of 104 km can be covered in approximately 2.5 hours. The route from Mytilene, stretching about 154 km, will take around 3.1 hours.

For those planning a long journey, for example, from the island of Ikaria, a road of almost 270 km will require about 8.9 hours. The roads in the Izmir region are of high quality, making travel by car or taxi comfortable and safe.

Izmir is one of the most cosmopolitan and friendly cities in Turkey, where Eastern traditions and a Western lifestyle blend harmoniously. To ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible, we have prepared several important recommendations:

1. Clothing and Style. The city adopts a relaxed style of dress with no strict restrictions. In summer, opt for light, natural fabrics, but when visiting mosques, be sure to cover your shoulders and knees (women will also need a headscarf). Comfortable footwear is essential for walking on the cobblestones of the old city.
2. Transport. To pay for travel on the metro, buses, trams, and ferries (Vapur), you need to purchase an Izmirim Kart. Cash is not accepted on public transport. Ferries are not just a means of transport but also the most picturesque way to see the city from the water.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Turkish Lira. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it is better to carry cash for purchases at the Kemeraltı Market or in small tea houses. It is more profitable to exchange currency at city exchange offices (Döviz) than at the airport.
4. Health and Water. Drinking tap water is not recommended; please buy bottled water. Pharmacies (Eczane) are frequently found, and duty pharmacies operate around the clock. Medical care in the city is at a high level, but travel insurance is mandatory.
5. Language. Many locals, especially the youth and tourism workers, speak English. However, knowing basic words ("merhaba" — hello, "teşekkür ederim" — thank you) always commands respect and brings a smile to the citizens' faces.
6. Etiquette. It is customary to remove shoes when entering a home or a mosque. Turks are extremely hospitable: refusing offered tea may be perceived as impolite, so it is better to take at least a few sips.
7. What to Avoid. Do not photograph locals without permission or loudly discuss political topics. Residents of Izmir are very proud of their history and the first president, Atatürk, so treat local symbols with respect.
8. Gastronomic Tip. Be sure to try "boyoz" for breakfast — a traditional Izmir pastry served with a boiled egg. It is a true culinary symbol of the city.

Observing these simple rules will help you feel at home in this hospitable metropolis and ensure you take away only positive emotions from your trip.