Izmir

Izmir may not have immediate appeal, but if you take a few days to explore, you'll come to appreciate the diverse architecture, fascinating ruins, and interesting museums that give this coastal Turkish city its edge. Despite the rapid growth of the past few decades, navigating Izmir is still manageable and pleasant. Interconnected piazzas and pedestrian-friendly walkways help ease your travels; you can happily spend a day or two walking along the waterfront promenade, taking time to learn about the city's 7,000-year history, shopping in the outdoor bazaar, or discovering the old churches, synagogues, and lively cafe culture.