Let's go to the Aegean Coast: Izmir

After a long and exhausting bus ride from Istanbul to Izmir, we went on an exploration tour on Monday. Izmir is the third largest city in Turkey and houses the second largest port in the country. The first settlements in the area of present-day Izmir date back to 6500–4000 BC. In addition, the region was conquered or settled by Luwians, Hittites, Phrygians, and Greeks.

After a hearty breakfast, we walked along the harbor to Konak Pier. The former customs building was designed by the civil engineer and architect Gustave Eiffel in 1890. Then we walked past the Clock Tower and the Yalı Mosque towards the Asansör Tower. The tower is an elevator that was used to transport people and goods up the steep slope. From the top, you have a magnificent view over Izmir. After a short break in a café, we strolled to the Kemeraltı Market, a historical bazaar similar to the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. Then we discovered the Lunapark, Izmir's own small amusement park. There, we couldn't resist riding the Ferris wheel and the Breakdance :) In the evening, we went to a French restaurant.

The next day, we took a bus to the Çeşme Peninsula. There, we relaxed on the beach of Ilıca all day until we unfortunately got a little too sunburned :D In the evening, we strolled along the harbor and had dinner in one of the lively and colorful streets. At night, Saskia already went back to Germany.