Kemeralti Market, Izmir (must see)
Kemeraltı Market is a vibrant and historic bazaar that stretches from Konak Square to the ancient Agora. Dating back to the 17th century, this labyrinthine market is a melting pot of culture and commerce, offering a diverse array of experiences for visitors to explore.
As you navigate the bustling and colorful streets of Kemeraltı, you'll encounter a delightful mix of shops, eateries, artisans' workshops, mosques, coffeehouses, tea gardens, and synagogues. It's a place where the past and present converge, showcasing the authentic essence of İzmir. Spending a day within this maze-like market allows you to uncover hidden courtyards, historic places of worship, and grand caravanserais, providing a glimpse into the heart of the city. Anafartalar Caddesi serves as the main thoroughfare of the bazaar, and you can use this as a reference point while exploring the area, along with landmarks like the Hisar, Şadırvan, and Kestanepazarı Mosques.
One of the notable highlights of Kemeraltı is the Kızlarağası Hanı, an impressive structure built in 1744. This Ottoman bedesten (warehouse) and kervansaray (caravanserai) shares similarities with the Inner Bedesten found in Istanbul's renowned Grand Bazaar, showcasing the historical significance of this market. Additionally, the Havra Sokak within the historic Jewish enclave houses a vibrant produce market, adding to the market's multicultural atmosphere.
For food enthusiasts, Kemeraltı is a paradise, with a plethora of cafes and eateries offering the city's famous fincanda pişen Türk kahvesi (Turkish coffee boiled in the cup). To fully immerse yourself in the culinary delights of the market, consider joining the Only in İzmir guided culinary walk, operated by the well-regarded Culinary Backstreets outfit, for an unforgettable food-focused experience.
While Kemeraltı Market is a must-visit during the day, it is essential to exercise caution at night, particularly in the area around Havra Sokağı. As with any bustling city, it is advisable to stay vigilant and prioritize your safety during nighttime exploration.
As you navigate the bustling and colorful streets of Kemeraltı, you'll encounter a delightful mix of shops, eateries, artisans' workshops, mosques, coffeehouses, tea gardens, and synagogues. It's a place where the past and present converge, showcasing the authentic essence of İzmir. Spending a day within this maze-like market allows you to uncover hidden courtyards, historic places of worship, and grand caravanserais, providing a glimpse into the heart of the city. Anafartalar Caddesi serves as the main thoroughfare of the bazaar, and you can use this as a reference point while exploring the area, along with landmarks like the Hisar, Şadırvan, and Kestanepazarı Mosques.
One of the notable highlights of Kemeraltı is the Kızlarağası Hanı, an impressive structure built in 1744. This Ottoman bedesten (warehouse) and kervansaray (caravanserai) shares similarities with the Inner Bedesten found in Istanbul's renowned Grand Bazaar, showcasing the historical significance of this market. Additionally, the Havra Sokak within the historic Jewish enclave houses a vibrant produce market, adding to the market's multicultural atmosphere.
For food enthusiasts, Kemeraltı is a paradise, with a plethora of cafes and eateries offering the city's famous fincanda pişen Türk kahvesi (Turkish coffee boiled in the cup). To fully immerse yourself in the culinary delights of the market, consider joining the Only in İzmir guided culinary walk, operated by the well-regarded Culinary Backstreets outfit, for an unforgettable food-focused experience.
While Kemeraltı Market is a must-visit during the day, it is essential to exercise caution at night, particularly in the area around Havra Sokağı. As with any bustling city, it is advisable to stay vigilant and prioritize your safety during nighttime exploration.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Izmir. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Kemeralti Market on Map
Sight Name: Kemeralti Market
Sight Location: Izmir, Turkey (See walking tours in Izmir)
Sight Type: Shopping
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Izmir, Turkey (See walking tours in Izmir)
Sight Type: Shopping
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Izmir, Turkey
Create Your Own Walk in Izmir
Creating your own self-guided walk in Izmir is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Izmir Introduction Walking Tour
A major city port on the western coastline of Turkey, Izmir is a city of enchanting contrasts. With a lineage that traverses millennia, this jewel of the Aegean Sea beckons travelers with its storied past and cosmopolitan vibrancy.
The city was founded by the Aeolians (one of the four major ancient Greek tribes) around the 3rd millennium BC and was later inhabited by various civilizations,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
The city was founded by the Aeolians (one of the four major ancient Greek tribes) around the 3rd millennium BC and was later inhabited by various civilizations,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Alsancak Walking Tour
Sparkling like a gem in the Aegean sun, the vibrant Alsancak neighborhood in the historic heart of Izmir exudes an irresistible charm that beckons both seasoned travelers and curious wanderers alike. In Ottoman times, the area was named "La Punta" (which is the Italian for "the cape") and was part of the city settled by the upper middle class.
From the spacious Gündoğdu... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
From the spacious Gündoğdu... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles