A gorgeous city known for its blend of ancient heritage and modern charm is a perfect place to visit this month. Izmir, located on Turkey’s scenic Aegean coast, is a vibrant city that offers a rich cultural experience, stunning seaside views, and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe.

The city experiences moderate weather and is still experiencing 24C, making it a favourable destination for holidaymakers looking for brighter weather. Apart from these factors, the city stands out as Brits can travel there without having to undergo the new EU border checks introduced on Sunday. The European Union started rolling out on the weekend its new Entry/Exit System (EES), a digital border control initiative aimed at strengthening security across the Schengen Area. Turkey isn’t a member of the bloc, nor is part of the Schengen zone.

Under the new system, third-country nationals—including British travellers—must provide biometric data such as fingerprints and facial photographs when entering participating EU countries.

As a result, UK passport holders can expect longer wait times and more administrative procedures at border checkpoints, especially during the initial phase of implementation.

Izmir, once known as the ancient city of Smyrna, boasts a rich historical legacy that dates back to the Hittite era and flourished under Greek and Roman rule.

Today, visitors can explore this heritage through landmarks like the Agora Open Air Museum, Kadifekale’s hilltop fortress, and the Izmir Archaeological Museum.

The city’s coastal charm is equally captivating, with the Gulf of Izmir offering scenic promenades such as the Kordon, where locals enjoy leisurely walks, cycling, and seaside cafés.

Izmir’s vibrant local life is centered around places like the Kemeraltı Bazaar, a lively market filled with shops and eateries, reflecting the city’s youthful and progressive spirit.

Just beyond the city, travelers can discover nearby gems like the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the picturesque village of Şirince known for its wine and olive oil, and the stylish beach towns of Çeşme and Alaçatı, popular for windsurfing and relaxation.

Travellers who have been to the city have shared their experiences on Quora when a visitor asked about the travel advice to Izmir.

One of the users answered the question and replied: “Yes, definitely. It’s the pearl of the Aegean as we Turks say. You should visit the ancient city of Ephesus which comprises Hellenistic and Roman settlements. You can explore the grand monuments of the Roman Imperial period such as the Great theatre, Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis as it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World.”

Another one commented: “Izmir is one of the best to live in, not in top row to visit (unless you are Greek). Istanbul is in global list of top of cities to visit, but not as popular to live in (unless you are a non-EU or non-US young adult). There is Selçuk, Söke, Alaçatı, Kuşadası towns near Izmir at late spring early autumn, that my friend, is completely another story! You may fall in love and take your pension and move there!”