There is a lot to see in Izmir, but among the many attractions in Izmir, this one is a must. These are just some of the amazing ancient monuments that you must visit as they really are some of the best places to visit in Izmir. While not true tourist attractions, these monuments are remnants of Smyrna's ancient past. In the Archaeological Museum of Smyrna, you will find many interesting finds, many of which date back to Greek and Roman times, as well as the Bronze Age. Some of the artefacts and excavations from here are now on display at the Smyrna Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Art and History. If you have fallen in love with the various archaeological examples you see in Izmir, you should definitely spend a few hours at the Izmir Archaeological Museum. If you are a museum lover, be sure to visit the Izmir Museum of History and Art, which houses a sensational collection of ancient artifacts. Other historical attractions in Izmir include the Kemeralti Bazaar, which Lonely Planet called the most glamorous market in the country. Visiting the Kemaralti market is one of the most delicious things to do in Izmir. One of Izmir's main attractions, Kemeralti Karsisi is a fantastic shopping street with stalls and a covered bazaar. Sometimes called the best hidden market in Izmir, you can buy carpets and jewellery here. If you like Turkish carpets and jewellery, you should visit Kizlaragasi Khan Bazaar, the best hidden market in the city, located in the Kemeralti Market. Many locals visit the Kemeraltı Bazaar to buy a traditional Turkish wedding dress. From sweet and sticky rainbow coloured Turkish Delight to salty sour olives, from deep black, purple to bright green, a visit to the Kemeraltı Market will satisfy your soul. As you walk around Izmir, take the time to stop by a traditional Turkish coffee shop. Izmir marketers are happy to chat, although, of course, you will not buy a kilogram of fruit or a traditional Turkish dress. In Smyrna's cosy central bazaar, merchants smile and shout as they invite visitors and locals to inspect their wares. One of the things tourists in Izmir often do is take pictures and feed the birds that fly by in front of the historic clock tower. The historic Clock Tower is one of Izmir's most famous landmarks, located in Konak Square. Konak Square with its picturesque Clock Tower (Saat Kulesi) is a meeting point, ideal for a short visit before strolling through the streets and markets of Izmir. See the water, take a few photos, visit the famous Izmir Clock Tower at Konak Pier, and stop by one of the many bars, cafes, and seafood restaurants along Izmir's famous waterfront. Walking along the waterfront and visiting windswept coastal towns is not the only thing what Izmir has to offer. In June and July, the International Arts Festival lets you explore the region's deep history as some of its old buildings have been transformed into whimsical and fascinating spaces. You can still see ancient colonnades, vaulted rooms, cathedrals, and cisterns in this beautiful open-air museum in the centre of Izmir. If you like to explore Izmir by bike, you can rent a public bike at a station near the Konak city ferry station and ride all the way to Goztepe to enjoy the view. If you are going to Izmir, give yourself enough time not only to see the sights, but also to relax in the charming city centre. The best time to visit Izmir is summer, for the best beach holidays, or even spring or autumn, when the beaches and attractions are slightly less crowded while still offering a pleasant climate. The ancient Roman city of Ephesus is today one of Izmir's most popular destinations, with two million tourists a year. While Ephesus is definitely one of the day trips from Izmir, you do not have to travel far to visit the ancient ruins. Most tourists visiting Izmir pass by Ephesus, which is considered the best-preserved ancient temple in the eastern Mediterranean.