Konak Square (Konak Meydani)

The basics

Most Izmir city tours and walking tours include a visit to Konak Square and the clock tower. Stroll around the square, home to the City Hall and Konak Mosque, then wander down to the waterfront and Konak Pier, where ferries set out across the Mediterranean. A short walk away is the Kermeralti Grand Bazaar, where you can browse hundreds of stalls selling everything from clothing, jewelry, and handicrafts to herbs, spices, and every imaginable flavor of Turkish delight.

Things to know before you go

• Izmir Clock Tower is renowned as the symbol of the city and is a must-see for first-time visitors.

• You’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafés in and around the square.

• The large square is easily accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

How to get there

Konak Square is located in the center of Izmir and is easy to reach on foot or by public transport. You can ride the metro to Konak station, take tram T2 to the Konak İskele stop, or hop on one of the many buses—there’s a bus station at the northern end of the square.

When to get there

Sunny summer weekends are the liveliest time to visit Konak Square when it's bustling with both locals and tourists. Although it can get busy, the square’s large size means that crowds are rarely an issue. For an alternative view, come back after dark to admire the illuminated clock tower.

Sights and attractions in Izmir

Izmir’s sights are scattered along its long waterfront, and it’s a good idea to take a tour if you want to see everything in a day. After visiting Konak Square and shopping for souvenirs at the Kermeralti Grand Bazaar, stop to admire the Ottoman-era Kızlarağası Inn and Hisar Mosque nearby. Continue to the Agora Open Air Museum to marvel at the city’s ancient Roman ruins, then explore the Ataturk Museum.