Daily Izmir (Smyrna) City Tour from Pergamon – Kadifekale & Kemeralti

Daily Izmir (Smyrna) City Tour from Pergamon – Kadifekale & Kemeralti

This full-day trip from Bergama (Pergamon) takes you to Izmir, the ancient Greek city of Smyrna, to combine its hilltop citadel and Roman agora with lively bazaars, historic inns and the seafront landmarks of Turkey's third-largest city. Thanks to its sheltered harbour, easy defence and good routes inland, Smyrna grew into one of the leading ports of the Aegean, and on this guided Izmir day tour you trace its story from antiquity to the present.

The day begins on Mount Pagus, crowned by Kadifekale, the citadel that overlooks the whole bay, before descending to the Agora of Smyrna, the best-preserved part of the ancient city. You then walk through Kemeralti, one of the largest open bazaars in Turkey, passing the old synagogue street and the fish and vegetable market on the way to the Hisar Mosque, where there is a short break. Next comes Kizlaragasi Han, an 18th-century Ottoman caravanserai now filled with small shops and handicrafts.

A short walk leads to the Clock Tower in Konak Square, the best-known symbol of Izmir, with time to enjoy the square and the nearby seafront, before a brief drive to the Historical Elevator (Asansor), whose terrace offers a sweeping panorama of the city and the gulf. With hotel pickup at 08:30 from Bergama, air-conditioned transport, a professional English-speaking guide and entrance fees included, this day trip from Pergamon is a rewarding addition for travellers who want to see the modern face and ancient roots of Izmir in one day.