Most Izmir sightseeing excursions stop by the Agora alongside attractions such as Alexander the Great’s hilltop castle (Kadifekale), the Izmir Archaeology Museum, and the Kemeralti bazaar. To learn about Smyrna’s ancient history, opt for a walking tour of the open-air museum—strolling among the columns, archways, and structures gives you an idea of what the bazaar might have been like. Don’t miss the Corinthian colonnade, the Faustina Gate, and the remains of two basilicas.
Located just east of downtown Izmir, the Agora Open Air Museum is about a 15-minute walk from the Kemeralti bazaar. There’s free parking outside for those with a car.
The museum is typically open daily. The open-air site has little shade, so if you’re there in summer, arrive in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.
A popular resort, Izmir is a strategic spot from which to explore the ancient wonders of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. To the north, the ancient city of Pergamon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its acropolis and hilltop amphitheater. Ephesus lies to the south—highlights include the Temple of Artemis and the Library of Celsus. Or, check out the less-visited Greek and Roman ruins of Aigai, which once served as a sanctuary of Apollo.