Experience in Izmir, Turkey by memduha

What is it like to live in Izmir? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

İzmir is a really nice city. It gives both silence and fun at the same time. It's cheap in comparison to other cities. If you're student I strongly recommed you to come.

What is the student lifestyle like in Izmir?

İzmir is a really good city which can give you what you demand. I mean if you want to go out and enjoy untill the morning you can find several places. But if you are in bad mood and you want to keep silence again you can find a lot places. If you like rock music, jazz, pop whatever you have too many opportunity to go and listen what you like. Also, it has many historical places if you're interested in.

How much does it cost to live in Izmir?

I'm a person who like enjoying, going concerts, parties and so on. I spend around 200 euros per month (for enjoying) and my flat is 100 euros (cause we're living three people) (utilities not included)

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Izmir? Is there any advice you can give?

It is really so easy. There are lot of flats for students and most of them are cheap. For instance, if you want to rent a flat near to Alsancak (which is a place you can enjoy at nights till the morning), the price would be around 300 euros. But of course prices depend on where the flat is located. :)

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

There several opportunities to find in İzmir. Because many civilization lived in the city you can find so many different food belong to different cultures. I think you should try to eat 'Çemşe Kumrusu', 'Gözleme' (in Kemeraltı), Tire Köftesi (you can find in any place), mantı, sarma.

What places would you recommend visiting in Izmir?

Izmir is full of historical places. I strongly recommed you to go Kemeraltı, Efes, Alsancak, Şirince, Çeşme, Urla, Güzelbahçe, Asansör(Elevator), Kordon, Saat Kulesi (Clock Tower).

Is it good to eat out in Izmir? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

It depends what you like. Usually you can eat really good food around 5-6 euros if you prefer to eat out. However, if you buy stuffs and cook at home it would be much more cheaper.

Is the nightlife good in Izmir? Where is good to go?

There a lot of parties at nights both on streets and bars. Especially students prefer to go Alsancak, Bornova, Çeşme and so on.

What advice would you give future students heading to Izmir?

Don't worry about people, they're all so warm-blooded.
Also, about flats if you find a flat-mate(s), cost will decrease.
About transportation, if you plan stay in a long term you should take 'Kenkart' to get the bus/metro so on. It's really good for cheap transportation.