Izmir has always been on my list of places to explore, but nothing could have prepared me for how much I would love it. From its stunning coastal views to its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, every moment in this city felt special.
A Warm Welcome to Izmir
I traveled to Izmir with my dad, Hande Abla, and my assistant, Gülsat. From the moment we arrived, I could feel the city’s unique energy. It’s lively but not overwhelming, full of history yet effortlessly modern. We stayed at Kordon Otel, a charming hotel along the waterfront, which turned out to be the perfect location. Waking up to the view of the sea and taking evening strolls along Kordon instantly made me feel connected to the city.
A Perfect Start: Dinner in Urla
On our first night, we made a stop in Urla, a picturesque coastal town just outside of Izmir, to have dinner with our friends Murat and Dilek. Fresh seafood is a staple in this region, and the fish we enjoyed that evening was nothing short of incredible. Sitting by the water, sharing stories, and savoring delicious flavors set the perfect tone for the rest of our trip.
Exploring Kemeraltı: A Shopper’s Paradise
No trip to Izmir is complete without a visit to Kemeraltı Çarşısı, the city’s historic bazaar. Wandering through its lively streets, I discovered a treasure trove of shops, local artisans, and cozy cafés. Of course, I couldn’t leave without picking up a little something for my office sisters, Merve and Dilaraa, in Istanbul. I found them beautiful mugs for their coffee or tea, a small token of appreciation, and a reminder of my trip.
A Cozy Café Break at Fısıltı Kahve
After an afternoon of shopping, we took a break at Fısıltı Kahve, a hidden gem with a charming atmosphere. Hande Abla enjoyed her Turkish coffee, while I treated myself to a hot chocolate—one of the best I’ve ever had in Turkey. It was an unexpected delight, especially since they didn’t have my usual coffee.
A Friendly Visit to Dr. Alp
Later in the day, I had an appointment with Dr. Alp, an eye doctor and a good friend of my dad’s. It was just a routine check-up, and I was relieved to hear that my eyes were healthy—I just need to continue wearing my glasses.
A Taste of Tradition at Topçu Restorant
For dinner, we headed to Topçu Restorant, a highly recommended spot by my Turkish best friend, Merve. Established in 1957, the restaurant is famous for its flavorful meat dishes, and I quickly understood why. I tried their signature çöp şiş, a delicious lamb kebab, and every bite was full of rich, smoky flavors. The cozy and inviting atmosphere made the experience even more enjoyable.
Ending the Night on a Sweet Note at Reyhan Pastanesi
No meal is complete without dessert, so we made our way to Reyhan Pastanesi, one of Izmir’s most beloved patisseries. With its elegant ambiance and an array of mouthwatering desserts, it was the perfect way to end the night. Every bite was pure indulgence, and it was easy to see why this place is a local favorite.
A City That Stays With You
Izmir is a city that captures your heart in more ways than one. Whether it was strolling along the waterfront, enjoying a seafood feast in Urla, exploring the vibrant streets of Kemeraltı, savoring the incredible flavors of Topçu Restorant, or indulging in the sweetest treats at Reyhan, every experience left a lasting impression.
Would I visit again? Without a doubt. Next time, I hope to bring my friends, Merve and Dilaraa, along for a girls’ trip. Even if they have meetings, we can embrace the growing trend of bleisure travel, blending business commitments with leisure experiences. This way, we can explore the city together, share delicious meals, and create unforgettable memories, all while balancing our professional responsibilities.
Izmir, get read, because next time, I’m bringing my girls with me!
