Only in Izmir: Exploring the Seaside City’s Culinary Traditions
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On our Izmir food tour we’ll explore the tangled roots of this Aegean city’s cuisine and culture, enjoying the friendly laid back environment of the markets near the agora and sampling a variety of dishes unique to this city.
Available options
Only in Izmir: Exploring the Seaside City’s Culinary Traditions
What's included
Soda/Pop
Snacks
Lunch
Breakfast
Detailed itinerary
1
The day will begin with a breakfast of boyoz, a Sephardic savory pastry found only here, slow-cooked eggs and local tulum cheese followed by a slice of history from a 3rd generation helva maker. We’ll visit a workshop where lokma, a donut-like sweet traditionally served to lighten the mood at funerals, is made and explore the crumbling architectural beauty of old Izmir
2
We’ll explore a residential neighborhood inhabited by migrant families from the East of Turkey before eating our way through another market filled with local culinary institutions including a fine fish restaurant, a Bosnian-Turkish gastro-café, a pide bakery and one of the best lokantas in the country.
3
Izmir takes its offal seriously, so we’ll give its famous sögüs, poached sheep’s head, a try before finishing the day with a local traditional semolina dessert call sambali and a cup of Turkish coffee made from beans freshly ground the old-fashioned way, in a stone mortar.
What's not included
Private transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.4
13 reviews
5★
11
4★
0
3★
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2★
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1★
2
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Izmir Basmane Train Station (in Turkish: Basmane Gari). It is on the crossroad of Anafartalar Street and Fevzi Pasa Avenue.
About Izmir
Izmir is a vibrant coastal city on Turkey's Aegean coast, known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and lively cultural scene. As one of Turkey's most cosmopolitan cities, it offers a blend of ancient ruins, modern amenities, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
Top Attractions
Agora of Smyrna
An ancient Roman agora located in the heart of Izmir. It's one of the most important historical sites in the city.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Kadifekale
A historic castle offering panoramic views of the city and the Aegean Sea.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Izmir Archeological Museum
A museum showcasing a vast collection of artifacts from the region's ancient history.
Museum
1-2 hours
Moderate (around 50 TRY)
Kordon
A beautiful waterfront promenade stretching along the Aegean coast.
Beach
Flexible, can be enjoyed at any time
Free
Çeşme
A popular beach resort town near Izmir, known for its beautiful beaches and thermal springs.
Beach
Full day
Varies by activity and accommodation
Must-Try Local Dishes
Köfte
Grilled or fried meatballs made from ground beef or lamb, often served with rice or bread.
Main Course
Contains meat
Boyoz
A type of pastry filled with a spiced beef mixture, typically eaten for breakfast.
Breakfast
Contains meat and gluten
Kumru
A sandwich made with a special type of bread, filled with various ingredients like cheese, tomatoes, and peppers.
Sandwich
Vegetarian options available
Midye Dolma
Stuffed mussels filled with spiced rice and pine nuts.
Snack
Contains seafood and gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking in nearby mountains
Water sports in Çeşme
Sunbathing on the beach
Visiting thermal baths in Pamukkale
Exploring ancient ruins in Ephesus
Visiting museums in Izmir
Swimming in the Aegean Sea
Boat trips to nearby islands
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, clear skies, and vibrant nightlife. It's ideal for beach activities and outdoor events.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Turkish
- Widely spoken: English, German
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Turkish Lira (TRY)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Izmir is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid petty crime.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis and insist on the meter being turned on
- • Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Adnan Menderes Airport • 20 km south of the city center
By train
Basmane Railway Station
By bus
Izmir Otogar (Main Bus Terminal)
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and efficient, with frequent services. Buses are the most common form of public transport in Izmir.
Taxis
Available • Apps: BiTaksi, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Alsancak
Karsiyaka
Gözlüce
Bornova
Day trips
Çeşme
90 km • Full day
A popular beach resort town with beautiful beaches and thermal springs.
Selçuk
80 km • Full day
A town near Izmir with significant historical and archaeological sites.
Sirince
70 km • Full day
A charming village known for its wine production and traditional architecture.
Festivals
Izmir International Festival • July to August
Izmir Short Film Festival • April
Izmir Jazz Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit the Agora of Smyrna early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
- Try local street food like kumru and midye dolma for an authentic culinary experience
- Explore the city's neighborhoods on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local culture
- Attend a local festival or event to immerse yourself in Izmir's vibrant cultural scene
- Take a day trip to Çeşme or Selçuk for a relaxing beach getaway or a historical adventure
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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