Izmir is the pearl of the Aegean and Konak beats at the heart of this beautiful city. The core areas of the city center, Alsancak, Kemeraltı, Basmane and Konak Square, constitute the most dynamic points of Izmir in both historical and cultural terms. In addition, Alsancak Port and Basmane Train Station, which carry the city to the top in terms of economy and logistics, are also located within the borders of Konak.

It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Konak is the apple of Izmir’s eye. It is the center of the city’s social, cultural and commercial life; however, we can say that the real spirit of Izmir begins beyond Konak. If you want to explore Izmir more deeply, don’t forget to take a look at the city’s different corners.

Places to Visit in Alsancak Region

Kordon Boyu

Perhaps the most enjoyable place in Alsancak is Kordon. There is nothing like lying on the grass by the sea with a drink in hand, accompanied by the warm but peaceful wind of Izmir, after work in the evening. In the spring months, spending time here becomes almost a way of life.

Kıbrıs Şehitleri Caddesi
 

One of the places where the heart of Izmir's nightlife beats. Cyprus Martyrs and the narrow streets next to it offer an atmosphere overflowing with cafes, bars, and music venues. If you want to have a lively night, this is the place for you.

Sevgi Yolu

This street surrounded by palm trees in Alsancak attracts attention not only for being cleared of traffic but also for the names of 33 famous people on it. Lined with book and jewelry stores, this road offers a pleasant walking route while shopping.

Cumhuriyet Meydanı

Cumhuriyet Square, one of the most important squares of Izmir along with Konak Square, can be considered the center of Izmir's social and political life. The monument symbolizing Atatürk's famous command 'Armies, your first target is the Mediterranean, forward!' is located here.

Pasaport İskelesi

This pier, which draws attention with its historical texture and French influence, dates back to the 19th century. Today, it is used not only for sea travel but also as one of the city's meeting points.

Places to Visit in Konak Center

Konak Pier

At first glance, it may look like a shopping mall, but its historical roots are much deeper. Formerly known as the Customs Building, this building was built by the French and its history dates back 150 years.

Clock Tower

The Clock Tower, the symbol of Konak Square, was built in honor of the 25th anniversary of Sultan Abdulhamid’s accession to the throne. Its stones were brought from Denizli and its clock was given to Izmir as a gift by the German Emperor Wilhelm II.

St. Polycarp Church

The foundations of this building, one of the oldest churches in Izmir, date back to 1625. Every Christian who comes to the city finds peace in this place where Polycarp was martyred.

Beth Israel Synagogue

Built in 1907, this synagogue is an important place of worship for Izmir's large Jewish community. Traces of the ancient period can be seen in its architecture.

Historical Elevator and Dario Moreno Street

Konak’s historical elevator is one of the rare structures that provides access to the Karataş area. Built in 1907, this elevator is currently used both for transportation and as a pleasant viewing point. Dario Moreno Street under the elevator is famous for its old Greek houses and cafes that bear traces of Izmir’s cultural texture.

Agora Ruins

You will be surprised that the ruins of the Smyrna Ancient City, which dates back to around 3000 BC and gave its name to Izmir, are in the heart of the city. The place where the heart of Izmir beats has not changed since then. The city first started in Bayraklı, then spread to the foothills of Kadifekale, including here. Its agora from the Roman period is worth seeing.

Izmir Ethnography Museum

Located in the same garden as the Archaeological Museum, this neo-classical building, also known as Piçhane, was built in 1831 as the St. Rock Hospital for the treatment of plague. It was later used by the French to care for poor Christians. The building, which was also used as the Health Directorate for a period, was reorganized and opened to visitors as the Ethnography Museum in 1987.

Places to Visit in Kemeraltı Region

Kemeraltı Bazaar

Kemeraltı, the most historic and liveliest bazaar in Izmir, is where the heart of the city's shopping culture beats. While walking through the narrow streets, you can discover traditional handicrafts, local products and delicious street food of Izmir.

Kızlarağası Hanı

This historic 18th-century inn was once a place where caravans stopped. Today, it has become a lively shopping area with a variety of shops, from antique dealers to jewelers.