Hello, fellow travelers! Today, let’s uncover the wonders of İzmit, a hidden gem in Turkey. Most tourists overlook this city, but trust us, there’s so much waiting for you here!

Whether you're a history lover or just seeking a unique travel experience, İzmit should definitely be on your radar. Let’s dive into this underrated destination!

Discovering İzmit’s Rich History

Izmit, once known as Nicomedia in ancient Greek and Roman times, is a city full of history waiting to be explored. One of the top attractions here is the Nicomedia City Walls, which are remnants from Roman times. You can stroll along these walls and experience a piece of history up close.

There is also the Izmit Archaeology Museum, which features a rich collection of artifacts, including ancient coins, sculptures, and pottery. Entrance Fee: 15 Turkish Lira (about $0.80). Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The museum is closed on Sundays. For those interested in the history of the region, the Izmit Clock Tower, built in 1901, is another landmark you should check out.

Perfectly Positioned for Easy Access

Izmit’s location makes it an ideal stop if you’re touring northwestern Turkey. It's just about a 1.5-hour drive from Istanbul (around 100 kilometers) and about 1 hour from Bursa (around 80 kilometers). The Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) in Istanbul is the closest major airport, offering easy access to the city. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus from Istanbul’s Esenler Bus Station to İzmit for around 30 Turkish Lira (about $1.50), with a journey time of 1.5 hours. There are also frequent trains from Istanbul’s Haydarpaşa Station, which take around 1.5 hours to reach İzmit.

Stunning Nature and Scenic Views

Izmit might be known for its industrial vibe, but don’t let that fool you! It is surrounded by natural beauty, offering some incredible scenic views. Kartepe Mountain is one of the top outdoor destinations here, offering hiking, skiing in winter, and breathtaking views of the Sea of Marmara. The Kartepe Ski Center is open from December to April, and the entrance fee for ski lifts is about 60 Turkish Lira (around $3.20) per day.

If you're looking for a more peaceful outdoor experience, the Yuvacık Dam is just 20 kilometers outside the city and is perfect for a day trip, offering beautiful views of the water and surrounding greenery. You can enjoy a nice picnic here, and the area is ideal for a relaxing afternoon.

Exploring Local Delights: Food and Markets

When it comes to food, İzmit delivers! A visit to the İzmit City Market is a must for foodies. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to local cheeses and olives. Make sure to try Pişmaniye, a sweet treat that is iconic to the region. It’s like Turkish cotton candy and costs around 10 Turkish Lira (about $0.50) per small box.

For savory meals, we recommend trying Köfte, traditional Turkish meatballs, or Simit, a sesame-crusted bread. You can also visit Kocaeli Meydan Avm, a shopping center with plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can taste local Turkish delicacies. Don’t forget to grab a cup of Turkish tea (around 5 Turkish Lira or $0.25) to complete your experience.

Shopping in İzmit: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Izmit offers a unique blend of shopping experiences, combining traditional markets with modern shopping malls. For traditional goods, visit Kocaeli Grand Bazaar where you can find handcrafted goods, jewelry, textiles, and antiques. You can even haggle for better prices here, as bargaining is a common practice.

For a more modern shopping experience, head to İzmit Shopping Center (also called İzmit AVM), which offers a range of fashion, beauty, and electronics stores. The mall is also home to various restaurants, perfect for a lunch or coffee break after shopping.

Practical Tips for Visiting İzmit

Before you embark on your trip to İzmit, here are some practical tips that will help you make the most of your visit:

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit İzmit is between April and June, or September and November. The weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists compared to the summer months. If you're into skiing, visit in winter (December to February) for the snow-covered Kartepe Mountain.

Transportation: While İzmit is fairly walkable, renting a car can give you more freedom to explore surrounding areas. Public transportation within the city is also reliable, with dolmuş (minibuses) being a cheap option. Taxis are widely available and affordable for short trips.

Local Etiquette: Be respectfulwhen visiting sacred sites like mosques. It's important to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees. If you want to greet locals, use “Merhaba” (hello) or “İyi günler” (good day).

Useful Apps: Download the BiTaksi app for easy access to taxis in İzmit, and use Apple Maps for public transportation routes and walking directions.

Final Thoughts: Why İzmit Should Be On Your Travel List

Izmit may not be the first destination that comes to mind when visiting Turkey, but it’s a place full of history, nature, and local culture that’s waiting to be explored. From ancient ruins and stunning mountain views to delicious food and vibrant markets, İzmit offers something for every type of traveler.

Whether you're looking to explore history, enjoy nature, or indulge in delicious local cuisine, İzmit is a destination you won’t want to miss. So, fellow Lykkers, pack your bags and get ready to discover this hidden gem!

Happy travels, and we hope you have an amazing time in İzmit!