Western Turkey is a unique melting pot of cultures, eras, and natural beauty that leaves even seasoned world travelers amazed. You’re always a stone’s throw away from some shockingly well-preserved ancient ruins, a pristine beach, or a well-regarded restaurant offering exceptional Mediterranean cuisine.
Planning a trip to Western Turkey and don't know where to start or what to see? Then read our guide, complete with prep tips and a general itinerary.
Preparing for the Trip
A smooth Aegean adventure calls for some prep! Major cities like Izmir, Bodrum, and Fethiye are easiest to reach by bus. You’ll want to book the tickets well in advance, though, especially if you plan on going in summer when last-minute seats are hard to come by.
Pack light and breathable clothes for comfort in the harsh sun. A quality pair of hiking shoes will make sure you don't lose your grip when exploring the ruins of antiquity, while a pair of sandals will do for the beaches.
Tap water is safe to cook and wash with. It’s technically drinkable in cities, but high in minerals. Your best bet is to bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to avoid stomach upset.
Lastly, you’ll want to pick and activate an affordable travel eSIM plan before departing. You can look up restaurant reviews and bus schedules and stay in touch without having to search for Wi-Fi or pay an arm and a leg for roaming.
The Perfect West Turkey Itinerary
While you can take a whirlwind tour through western Turkey in just a week, it's better to experience the region's cultural and gastronomic riches at a slower pace. Here's where to begin and what to do on a two-week trip, plus what you can cut short to make even a shorter trip worthwhile.
Izmir
Turkey’s third-largest metropolis offers a blend of ancient, Ottoman, and modern influences while also being the perfect geographic starting point to a tour of Western Turkey. Remnants of the ancient city of Smyrna still impress in its agora. Meanwhile, visitors in search of modern charm can unwind in one of the many cafés in the Alsancak district or take a sunset stroll down the Kordon waterfront promenade.
Izmir is close to some of West Turkey’s most famous historical sites and beaches alike. Staying there for a while lets you take an excursion to the fabled city of Troy for a day and marvel at how intact and alive the ruins of Ephesus are the next. After that, get some well-deserved rest or put your windsurfing skills to the test at Alaçatı or Çeşme’s gleaming white beaches.
Bodrum
Farther down the coast lies Bodrum, another city rich in historical and gastronomic treasures. It’s home to the ruins of the original Mausoleum, whose intricacy and beauty made it into one of the old world’s seven wonders. The Castle of St. Peter is even more impressive, especially if you’re interested in maritime archaeology and the millennia-old history of seafaring.
Much of Bodrum’s cuisine hinges on the sea’s bounty. Grilled sea bass, calamari, and octopus are simple yet tasty staples. More complex dishes include stuffed zucchini flowers as well as flaky, richly-filled sweet or savory pastries.
Turgutreis is a nearby coastal town with a decidedly more modern vibe. Pay it a visit if you want to sip authentic Turkish coffee while basking in the marina and equally stunning sunsets. Travelers with a taste for the luxurious will also want to check out the nearby Palmarina for yachting and boutique shopping.
Marmaris
Marmaris and its surroundings are the perfect capstone to your western Turkey escapades. The city itself boasts a sprawling sandy beach, a few minutes' walk from its center. Marmaris Castle is another must. The 2,500-year-old castle with an Ottoman facelift remains magnificent, as do the collections of the museum within.
The ancient Greek city of Amos is close to Marmaris and famed for its scenic acropolis and well-preserved amphitheater. Kaunos is a ruined Lycean city, a two-hour drive away, worth a visit for the rock tombs hewn into the cliffside.
Remember to have the best eSIM for Turkey when exploring these and other ruins. That way, you get to stay connected wherever there’s cell service and can either search for information or reach out for help without a fuss.
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