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    Mediterranean

    TOUR C - Izmir City Tour

    Excursions

    • 30 - 40
    • 3.5-4 hours
    • Moderate

    Izmir is the third most populous city in Turkey, and the country’s largest port after Istanbul. Located on the Aegean Sea, it is the ancient and medieval city of Smyrna.

    Departing the quayside, we travel to the Asansör, which means ‘the Elevator’. Built in 1907 by Nesim Levi, the Asansör is one of the principal landmarks of Izmir. It used to work by a water-driven mechanism, but was later restored and is now powered by electricity. The elevator offers an impressive view over the city and the bay.

    From here, we drive to the Agora, the celebrated marketplace of old Smyrna located at the foot of the Pagos hills. It is said that the Agora was built during the reign of Alexandra the Great. Destroyed by an earthquake in 178 AD, it was rebuilt by Faustina, the wife of Marcus Aurelius. Turkish and German archaeologists excavated the site between 1932 and 1941, and the Agora has now been arranged into the Open Air Museum of Izmir. During our visit we shall come across the architectural remains of the ancient shops.

    Our final stop is at Kizlaragasi Hani, a caravanserai built by Haci Besir Aga in 1744. The typical Ottoman inn is an impressive construction with a 4,000 square metre courtyard and a roof covered completely with lead. Originally an inn for travellers from the East carrying silk and spices, today the caravanserai shelters stalls selling souvenirs, handicrafts and carpets. We shall be able to browse the stalls prior to the return journey to the quayside and our awaiting ship.

    TOUR NOTES: Please note that although it is possible visit these sights independently, this excursion is for those who appreciate an organised tour with a knowledgeable guide. This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, and there may be some steps to negotiate. There will be approximately 20 minutes of walking at the Asansör, 30 minutes at the Agora and one and a half hours at Kizlaragasi Hani. Unfortunately it is not suitable for wheelchair users. Depending on the berth of our ship, there may be a walk of up to 400 metres from the ship to the tour vehicles.

    DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2011 CANARIES & MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES

     

    Snack or meal provided

    Refreshments available

    Free time

    Shopping opportunity

    Wheelchair access

    Swimming opportunity

    All prices are based on operating costs, tariffs and rates of exchange and are subject to change without notice.