Aegean Coast Travelers Recommend

Modern Izmir is Turkey's third-largest city and, at first sight, may seem a little disorientating and unlovable. Wander through the wonderfully conserved ancient agora, once a bustling Roman bazaar. From here, visit Alexander the Great's Kadifekale castle, which overlooks the agora from atop a hill and has views over the entire city. Put it all together on a visit to the neighbouring Archaeological and Ethnographic museums to see the best preserved antiquities from the region's ancient cities. Spectacular Pamukkale is another must-see site for visitors to Izmir. These incredible, limestone cascades are created by a natural build-up of calcium carbonate, which make the cliffs look like they've been covered in icing! You can no longer take a dip in the pools at Pamukkale but, visit the neighbouring ancient city of Hierapolis, and you can swim in the thermally heated Sacred Pool among the remains of ancient Roman columns.