Izmir Kemeraltı Çarşısı

Market in Izmir

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Dosseman

Winding through the heart of İzmir's old town, Kemeraltı Market is a place where history, culture, and everyday life merge in a vibrant swirl of colors, scents, and sounds. Dating back to the 17th century, this sprawling bazaar stretches from Konak Square to the ancient Agora, forming a maze of narrow alleys and bustling courtyards. It's one of the top sights in İzmir and a highlight of any walking tours of İzmir, capturing the essence of the city's Aegean soul.

From artisans hammering copper to vendors selling aromatic spices, every corner of Kemeraltı reveals something new. It's not just a marketplace but a living museum — a space that has grown and evolved for more than 300 years while retaining its traditional character. Whether you're here to shop, eat, or simply people-watch, this spot is one of the must-see places in İzmir for a true taste of local life.

History and Significance
Things to See and Do
Practical Tips
How to Get There
Is Kemeraltı Market Worth Visiting?
Nearby Attractions

History and Significance

Kemeraltı Market traces its origins to the 17th century, when İzmir's expanding harbor and booming trade turned the area into one of the Ottoman Empire's busiest commercial centers. The name “Kemeraltı” means “under the arches,” referring to the covered passageways that once sheltered traders from the Aegean sun. Over time, the bazaar grew organically, expanding across streets and courtyards, incorporating caravanserais, mosques, synagogues, and workshops.

One of its architectural highlights is the Kızlarağası Han, a grand 18th-century caravanserai built in 1744. Once a resting place for merchants and travelers, it now houses shops selling jewelry, textiles, and handcrafted souvenirs. The market's blend of Ottoman, Jewish, and Greek influences makes it a microcosm of İzmir's multicultural history.

Things to See and Do

A visit to Kemeraltı is an adventure for all the senses. Stroll down Anafartalar Caddesi, the market's main artery, and you'll find everything from antique stores and leather goods to traditional sweets and ceramics. Hidden within the maze are some of İzmir's most beautiful mosques, including the Hisar, Şadırvan, and Kestanepazarı Mosques — each offering a quiet respite amid the lively energy of the bazaar.

For food lovers, Kemeraltı is paradise. Stop for a cup of fincanda pişen Türk kahvesi — Turkish coffee boiled directly in the cup — or sample local specialties like boyoz (a buttery pastry) and midye dolma (stuffed mussels). Don't miss Havra Sokak, the old Jewish quarter, where fresh produce stalls and spice shops overflow with color. Joining a local food tour such as the Only in İzmir Culinary Walk is one of the best things to do in İzmir for those wanting to explore the market's edible treasures.

Practical Tips

Best time to visit: Morning to early afternoon for lively atmosphere and cooler weather.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free.
Opening hours: Most shops open 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (closed on Sundays).
Official website: Not applicable.
How long to spend: 2–3 hours or more for deeper exploration.
Accessibility: Narrow, uneven streets but generally walkable; best explored on foot.
Facilities: Public restrooms, mosques, and plenty of cafés and tea gardens.
Photography tip: Capture daily life scenes — artisans at work or sunlight filtering through market alleys.
Guided tours: Culinary and historical walking tours available daily.
Nearby food options: Numerous eateries inside the market offering traditional Aegean and Turkish dishes.

How to Get There

Kemeraltı Market is centrally located between Konak Square and the Agora of Smyrna. It's easily reached via the İzmir Metro or tram (Konak Station), or by ferry from Karşıyaka, Alsancak, or Bostanlı to Konak Pier. From there, it's just a short walk inland — simply follow the crowds and the aroma of coffee and spices.

Is Kemeraltı Market Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt. Kemeraltı Market isn't just one of İzmir's oldest sites — it's the city's living heartbeat. Every visit reveals something different, whether it's a centuries-old mosque, a hidden courtyard café, or a craftsman shaping copper by hand. For anyone wanting to experience İzmir's history, culture, and community in one place, this is one of the best places to visit in İzmir, offering an unforgettable glimpse into daily Aegean life.

Nearby Attractions

Konak Square – The city's central plaza with the famous İzmir Clock Tower.
Hisar Mosque – İzmir's grandest Ottoman mosque, located within the bazaar.
Kızlarağası Han Bazaar – A restored caravanserai filled with artisan shops and cafés.
Konak Camii – A beautiful 18th-century mosque near the waterfront.
Agora of Smyrna – Ancient ruins at the market's northern edge, connecting past and present.

The Izmir Kemeraltı Çarşısı appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Izmir!

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