Izmir

One of Turkey's biggest hubs, Izmir is your gateway to Ephesus, the Mediterranean's best-preserved classical city. It was in Ephesus that one of the seven Ancient Wonders of the World once stood, the Temple of Artemis. Be whisked back to the Roman age and feast on its architectural riches.......

Things to do in Izmir

* One of Turkey's biggest hubs, Izmir is your gateway to Ephesus, the Mediterranean's best-preserved classical city. It was in Ephesus that one of the seven Ancient Wonders of the World once stood, the Temple of Artemis. Be whisked back to the Roman age and feast on its architectural riches.

* Follow the city's marble-lined streets to the magnificent centrepiece - the Greco-Roman theatre. In its heyday it could seat 25,000 people and famous visitors include Mark Anthony and Cleopatra.

* Walk along the flagstone road of Curetes Way. It's lined with ancient pillars and has the Library of Celsus standing proudly in the background.

* Legend has it that the Virgin Mary came here with St Paul towards the end of her life. Make sure you visit the ruined 4th-century Church of the Virgin Mary.