Izmir City: Turkey's third-largest city (18km, 30 minutes) is modern, cosmopolitan, and more liberal than much of Turkey. The waterfront Kordon promenade stretches for kilometers with cafes, restaurants, and sea views. Konak Square features the iconic clock tower (1901), the historic Kemeraltı Bazaar offers authentic shopping without tourist prices of Istanbul, Kadifekale castle provides panoramic city views, and the Agora (ancient Roman marketplace) sits in the city center. Izmir is working city rather than tourist destination - authentic Turkish life, excellent food, vibrant atmosphere. The city is gateway to nearby ancient sites rather than destination itself for most visitors.

Ephesus (Efes): One of the world's most impressive ancient sites (80km south, 1 hour), Ephesus was a major Roman city with population of 250,000 at its peak. The remarkably preserved ruins include the Library of Celsus (iconic two-story facade), Great Theater (24,000 capacity), Temple of Hadrian, Terrace Houses (wealthy Roman homes with frescoes and mosaics - separate ticket), marble street, and numerous other structures. Ephesus is Turkey's most visited ancient site - absolutely essential. Very crowded midday (10am-3pm) when cruise ships arrive - visit early morning (8am opening) or late afternoon. Allow 3-4 hours minimum. Audio guides or licensed guides highly recommended to understand the site.

House of the Virgin Mary and St. John's Basilica: Near Ephesus (7km), the modest stone house is where Virgin Mary supposedly spent her final years (brought by St. John after crucifixion). The site is Catholic pilgrimage destination visited by three popes. The house is small and simple but significant for believers. St. John's Basilica in Selçuk town was built by Emperor Justinian over St. John's tomb - impressive ruins with views. Both sites can be combined with Ephesus visit in one day.

Pamukkale (Cotton Castle): This extraordinary natural wonder (200km inland, 3 hours) features white travertine terraces formed by calcium-rich thermal waters cascading down hillside. The brilliant white formations resemble frozen waterfalls or cotton (pamuk = cotton in Turkish). Visitors walk barefoot in warm thermal pools on the terraces - spectacular and unique. At the top, ancient Hierapolis city ruins include well-preserved theater, necropolis, and Roman baths. Pamukkale is UNESCO World Heritage site - one of Turkey's most famous attractions. Best visited as day trip from Izmir or overnight in Pamukkale village. The site is beautiful but very touristy.

Çeşme and Alaçatı: Çeşme (85km west, 1 hour) is elegant coastal resort on peninsula with Genoese castle, marina, excellent beaches, and thermal springs. The town is upscale and cosmopolitan. Alaçatı (10km from Çeşme) is picture-perfect stone village with narrow streets, colorful shutters, boutique hotels, excellent restaurants, art galleries, and Greek-influenced architecture. Alaçatı is world-famous windsurfing destination due to consistent winds - the bay hosts international competitions. The village transforms into trendy resort in summer with sophisticated atmosphere - Turkey's answer to Greek islands. Beaches near Çeşme (Ilıca Beach, Pırlanta Beach) have fine sand and clear water.

Şirince Village: This charming hilltop village (8km from Selçuk/Ephesus) features Greek stone houses, narrow cobbled streets, local wine production (fruit wines including peach, apple, strawberry), and authentic atmosphere. The village was Greek until 1923 population exchange. Şirince is touristy but beautiful - excellent for lunch after Ephesus visit. The village produces unique fruit wines sold in shops - tastings available.

Peak Season: July-August are extremely hot (35-40°C) and crowded at major sites like Ephesus. May-June and September-October offer ideal conditions - warm (25-32°C) with manageable crowds. April and November are pleasant (18-25°C). Winter (December-February) is mild (10-15°C) but some coastal hotels close. Turkey offers excellent value - accommodation, food, and tours significantly cheaper than Greece or Western Europe while offering comparable or superior sites and beaches.