İzmir, the third most populous city in Turkey, is located in the middle of the Aegean Region and around İzmir Gulf. Renting a car is one of the most practical ways to reach the beautiful attractions in Izmir and within its vicinity. You can comfortably make travel plans for İzmir and surroundings by renting vehicles from Garenta Adnan Menders Airport branch or Garenta Alsancak branch.

In the city which disappoints no one with its perfect weather, you can start your day upon tasting a fresh boyoz and discovering the seaside in Alsancak, Kordon. Although it is a large city, İzmir surprises especially the people from Istanbul with calm and peaceful inhabitants. A meeting point for different cultures with the scent of the sea filling the streets, İzmir boasts a rich cultural and historical past and there are countless attractions to see in the city center. In order to discover the city and cool your heels, you should visit Kemeraltı Bazaar in Konak, Asansör in Karataş, Kültürpark in İzmir Fair, Watch Tower, Natural Life Park and St. Polycarp Church. İzmir is famous for its fully loaded kumru sandwiches, and we recommend you taste meat skewer, çöp şiş, as well. Let’s look at some surrounding alternatives for those who want to enjoy the Aegean region while in İzmir.

Şirince

This cute Aegean Greek village, famous for its nature and wines, will certainly fascinate you with its historical church, architecture and rural life. Vehicles are not allowed in the village due to its narrow streets and protected nature. So you can surrender yourself to this splendid atmosphere, leaving your vehicle at the entrance of the village. You can ride a horse from around the square to the tower, visit the locals who produce their own soap, olive oil and wine, and enjoy shopping. Among the must-see destinations in Şirince are Hodri Meydan Tower, St. John Church, Souvenir Bazaar and cisterns.

Transportation: Şirince is 66 kms from İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport and you can reach the village via İzmir-Aydın Highway in approx. 1 hour.

Ancient City of Ephesus

Located in the Aegean Region and one of the most beautiful archetypes of its history, the Ancient City of Ephesus is a colossal cultural heritage of the Hellenistic period that stood the test of time. If you decide to see the ancient city located within the boundaries of Selçuk district of İzmir in the summer, we recommend you to wear a light colored and comfortable outfit and take precautions to protect yourself in the heat. Among the structures and works of art, you must mainly see the Temple of Artemis, Celsus Library, Amphitheatre, the House of Virgin Mary and St. John Castle in the Ancient City of Ephesus, the first city that was built entirely of marble.

Transportation: The Ancient City of Ephesus is 50 minutes from Adnan Menderes Airport. You can also reach Ephesus from central İzmir via E87 Highway in the same period of time.

Alaçatı

Alaçatı, one of the most popular holiday villages of recent years, is actually a neighborhood in Çeşme district of İzmir that has a coast by the Aegean Sea. Famous for beaches that offer a great windsurfing opportunity, Alaçatı is a place where you can truly enjoy your time and have a wonderful weekend getaway thanks to its historical stone houses, Alaçatı Herb Festival which have been organized for the last 6 years and the beach clubs that spring to life especially in the summer season.

Transportation: Alaçatı is 85 kms from İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport and you can reach the neighborhood via E881 Highway in approx. 1 hour 10 minutes by your vehicle.