Kadifekale Castle – This crumbling medieval citadel is known as the ‘Velvet Castle’. Perched atop a hill on the east side of Izmir, it provides some magnificent panoramic views of the city and gulf, especially at sunset.

Agora – This ancient market was built for Alexander the Great, destroyed by an earthquake in 178 AD, and rebuilt by the wife of Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius. Wandering around the mighty columns and arches will transport you back to the heyday of this bustling Roman bazaar.

Museum of History and Art – A new museum that provides an excellent insight into the Izmir region’s artistic heritage. With galleries showcasing local sculpture, ceramics and artefacts, it is well worth a few hours of your time.

Shopping in the Bazaar – For a true taste of Turkey, lose yourself in the colourful alleyways of Izmir’s traditional bazaar. The eclectic mix of stalls seems to stock anything and everything, including rugs, spices, wedding dresses, beads and singing birds.

Ride the Teleferik – Izmir’s popular cable car will whisk you to the top of a 420m-high forested mountain, with superb views along the way.

A soak at Şıfalı Lux Hamam – This clean Turkish bathhouse has an attractive marble interior and dome, making it the perfect spot to relax after climbing to Kadifekale Castle.

Kumru – A local sandwich specialty of sausage, yellow sheep’s cheese and tomato on a chickpea sourdough roll. It’s best to buy this from a street vendor early in the morning when the bread is at its freshest.

Evil Eye Beads – Izmir is the best place in Turkey to buy these charms, believed to repel the infamous ‘evil eye’.