Ayhan Mortepe in Konak, İzmir: 2 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Konak

Must-try foods in Konak

• Boyoz
  Boyozİzmir’s most iconic breakfast pastry, this flaky, unleavened bread was introduced by Sephardic Jewish immigrants in the 15th century. Traditionally made with flour, sunflower oil, and tahini, it is served warm and best enjoyed with a hard-boiled egg sprinkled with black pepper and a glass of strong Turkish tea.
• Kumru
  KumruA signature sandwich of the region, specifically unique due to its artisanal chickpea-yeast bread. The 'hot' version, popular in Konak, is loaded with grilled sucuk (spicy sausage), salami, and kaşar cheese, then topped with tomato and pickles. Its name, meaning 'dove,' refers to the rounded shape of the bread.
• Gevrek
  GevrekWhile it looks like a simit, locals will firmly correct you: İzmir Gevrek is distinct. The dough is briefly boiled in hot molasses (pekmez) before being coated in sesame seeds and baked, resulting in a significantly crunchier exterior and a deeper, slightly sweet toasted flavor.
• Şevketi Bostan with Lamb
  Şevketi Bostan with LambA quintessential Aegean 'herb' dish featuring the Holy Thistle. This upscale traditional stew uses the root and leaves of the plant, slow-cooked with tender chunks of lamb, onions, and a lemon-egg dressing (terbiye). It represents the sophisticated, health-conscious olive oil culture of İzmir.
• İzmir Köfte
  İzmir KöfteUnlike standard Turkish meatballs, İzmir Köfte consists of oblong-shaped patties baked in a tray with thick wedges of potatoes, green peppers, and tomatoes in a rich, savory tomato broth. It is the ultimate comfort food found in the 'esnaf lokantası' (tradesmen restaurants) of Konak.
• Şambali
  ŞambaliA dense, syrup-soaked semolina cake that is a staple of the Kemeraltı bazaar district near Kadifekale. It is often topped with a single almond and served with a dollop of 'kaymak' (clotted cream) or 'lor' cheese to balance the intense sweetness of the syrup.

Trip guide

• About Konak
  About KonakKadifekale, situated on Mount Pagos in the Konak district of Izmir, is a fortification with a history spanning over two millennia. Established in the 3rd century BC by Lysimachos, a general of Alexander the Great, the site served as the acropolis for the relocated city of Smyrna. The current structure contains architectural layers from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Kadifekale is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) when temperatures are mild and ideal for walking the uphill terrain. Summer months can be oppressively hot with little shade at the summit, while winter often brings chilly winds and rain that can obscure the panoramic views. To avoid large tour groups and cruise ship crowds.
• Getting around
  Getting around Konak

  • ESHOT Public Bus Take bus line 33 directly from Konak Square to the 'Kadifekale Son Durak' (last stop) located at the castle entrance. This is the most cost-effective public transit option.
  • Taxi or Ride-Share Taxis are the most convenient way to reach the summit of Mount Pagos from Konak or Basmane. The drive takes about 5-10 minutes and avoids the steep, narrow uphill climb through the residential neighborhood.
  • Walking (Hiking) For a scenic but strenuous experience, you can hike approximately 1-2 km uphill from the Agora Open Air Museum or Konak Square. The path is very steep and passes through local residential areas; it is recommended to do.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Use the Izmir City Tour Bus or a taxi to reach the summit, as the 2-kilometer walk from Konak Square is very steep and passes through isolated areas.
  • Visit the castle during daylight hours and remain within the main fortress walls to ensure personal safety and avoid the surrounding lower-income neighborhoods after dark.
  • Keep a close watch on your personal belongings and avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics while exploring the ruins and nearby cisterns.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Konak

  • UNESCO World Heritage Bid: Increased focus on the 'Historical Port City of Izmir' initiative.
  • Golden Age of Archaeology: Ongoing excavations at the ancient Smyrna site and the castle's Byzantine cisterns.
• Visit İzmir↗
  Visit İzmirThe official digital tourism portal for İzmir, providing comprehensive guides to the city's historical, cultural, and natural heritage.