Travel and Accommodation
Welcome to İzmir. After the conference sessions conclude on Thursday and Friday (October 31st and November 1st), we invite you to explore the city's rich cultural and historical heritage. Below is a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.
Getting Around İzmir
Public Transport: İzmir’s public transportation system, including buses, trams, and ferries, is efficiently navigable with the İzmirim Card. For more info: https://www.izmir.bel.tr/en/transportation-guide/494/1035
Taxis: Taxis are readily available and convenient for shorter distances.
Walking: Walking is highly recommended for exploring central areas such as Alsancak and Konak, where many attractions are within close proximity.
Transportation Options from İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport to the City and Ege University
Firstly, we recommend booking a flight to İzmir Adnan Menderes Havalimanı (ADB), which is the only airport in İzmir. There are multiple transportation options from the airport to various points in the city. You can take the Izban (Suburban Train) from the airport to Basmane or Alsancak stations, which are both centrally located in Izmir. However, if you wish to get to Bornova, where the Ege University campus is located, you should take the Izban train from the airport to Halkapınar station, then transfer to the İzmir Metro (M1 line) towards Bornova. The M1 metro line has a station called “Ege Üniversitesi,” which is located inside the campus, making it very convenient.
You can also use Havaş Shuttle Buses, which run between the airport and various points in Izmir, including the city center (Konak, Alsancak). Or, you can use public buses (ESHOT); for example, bus no. 204 connects the airport to Bornova, where the Ege University campus is located. Taxis are also available directly outside the terminal.
İzmir Culture and Arts Factory
https://izmirkultursanatfabrikasi.gov.tr/en
Begin your cultural exploration at the İzmir Culture and Arts Factory, situated in the historic Alsancak Tekel Factory. This 140-year-old site has been meticulously restored and now serves as a cultural center.
It houses the Archaeology and Ethnography Museum, the İzmir Painting and Sculpture Museum, the Atatürk Special Library, and several other specialized libraries. Additionally, the complex features cultural workshops, an open-air cinema, exhibition areas, and green spaces.
How to Get There: From Ege University Campus in Bornova, take the M1 metro to Halkapınar station. Then, transfer to İzban commuter train from Halkapınar to Alsancak Station, which is a short walk from the station to the factory.
Agora, Kadifekale, and Alsancak Tour
Exploring Historical İzmir https://www.smyrnaagorasi.com/en/
“Agora of Smyrna” is an ancient Roman marketplace established in the late 4th century BC, and situated in central İzmir. It is among the largest ancient agoras that provides a fascinating insight into the city’s historical significance. The site includes well-preserved arches, columns, and remnants of ancient structures.
How to Get There: From Bornova (where Ege University Campus is located), take the M1 metro to Konak Station. From Konak, it is a 15 min. walk to Agora Open Air Museum.
From there, you can proceed to Kadifekale (Velvet Castle), situated on Mount Pagos. Kadifekale offers stunning panoramic views of İzmir and its surroundings. This ancient fortress, dating back to the Hellenistic period, is an excellent spot to appreciate the city’s historical depth.
How to Get There: Take bus number 33 from Konak to Kadifekale.
Subsequently, you can head to the Alsancak district, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere. You can stroll along Kıbrıs Şehitleri Street (Kıbrıs Şehitleri Caddesi), famous for its cafes, boutique shops, and nightlife. Significant landmarks include the historic Alsancak Train Station and Kültürpark, which regularly hosts cultural events and exhibitions. You can conclude your session with a walk along the Kordon waterfront promenade, to enjoy the views of the sunset over the Aegean Sea.
How to Get There: From Kadifekale, take a taxi or bus number 33 back to Konak, then take the M1 metro from Konak station to Çankaya station.
Kemeraltı, Bostanlı, and Karşıyaka Tour
Discovering Modern and Scenic İzmir
Begin your session with a visit to Kemeraltı, one of İzmir's most famous and historical marketplaces. This bustling bazaar is filled with shops selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs. You can also visit the Hisar Mosque, one of the oldest and largest mosques in İzmir, located within the market area.
How to Get There: From Bornova (where Ege University Campus is located), take the M1 metro to Konak Station. From Konak, it is a short walk to Kemeraltı Bazaar.
After Kemeraltı, you can take a ferry from Konak to Bostanlı, offering scenic vistas of the Gulf of İzmir. In Bostanlı, visit the Bostanlı Sunset Lounge for panoramic views and explore the local markets for a taste of regional culture and goods.
How to Get There: Take the ferry from Konak to Bostanlı, available frequently throughout the day.
Continue your journey to Karşıyaka, a district celebrated for its dynamic environment. Key attractions include the Karşıyaka Bazaar, the malls (Hilltown and Mavibahçe), Bostanlı main Street and shopping areas and the architecturally distinctive Bostanlı Pazaryeri Mosque.
How to Get There: From Bostanlı, take a tram or a short bus ride to Karşıyaka. Ferries back to Konak are available frequently.
