İzmit travel guide

The rich history of İzmit dates back to ancient times, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. Founded in the 8th century BC by the Megarians, İzmit was initially known as Astacus. The city experienced significant growth and development under the reign of the Bithynian kings.

During the Roman period, Emperor Augustus re-established the city as Nicomedia in 286 AD, and it became the eastern capital of the Roman Empire. This era marked a golden age for İzmit, with the construction of grand structures and the flourishing of arts and culture.

The Byzantine Empire also left its mark on İzmit before it fell to the Ottomans in the 14th century. Under Ottoman rule, İzmit continued to thrive, becoming an important administrative and commercial center. The city’s strategic location near the Sea of Marmara facilitated trade and cultural exchanges, contributing to its prosperity.

Today, visitors can explore remnants of its storied past, from ancient ruins to Ottoman architecture, providing a captivating glimpse into the diverse historical influences that have shaped İzmit through the centuries.

İzmit, located in the Marmara Region of Turkey, is a city rich in cultural heritage and traditions. One of the most important aspects of local culture is hospitality. Visitors can expect to be warmly welcomed by locals, who often offer tea or coffee as a gesture of friendliness. It is considered polite to accept these offers.

Traditional Turkish tea, or 'çay,' is a staple in daily life, and you will notice locals enjoying it in small tulip-shaped glasses throughout the day. Respect for elders is deeply ingrained in Turkish culture, so addressing older individuals with titles like 'amca' (uncle) or 'teyze' (aunt) followed by their first name is appreciated.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women may need to cover their heads, shoulders, and knees, while men should avoid wearing shorts. İzmit also observes various local festivals and events, such as the traditional oil wrestling competitions and folk music performances, which offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

When dining out, it’s customary to share dishes, and tipping around 10% in restaurants is standard practice. Understanding and respecting these customs will enhance your experience and help you connect more meaningfully with the local community.

The best time to explore İzmit is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these periods, temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is less crowded compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

In spring, the blooming flowers and greenery around İzmit create a picturesque setting, perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Additionally, the Kocaeli Book Fair, held in May, attracts literature lovers from across the region. Autumn offers equally favorable weather and the chance to witness the stunning fall foliage in the surrounding countryside.

Summer months (July and August) can be quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. While this period is popular for beachgoers heading to the nearby Sea of Marmara, it can also mean larger crowds and higher prices. Conversely, winter (December to February) sees colder temperatures and occasional rainfall, which might limit outdoor activities but provides a quieter atmosphere for those looking to explore Izmit's cultural and historical attractions without the bustle of tourists.

By planning your trip during the shoulder seasons, you can enjoy the best of İzmit's weather and events while avoiding the peak tourist influx.

For an authentic and memorable experience in İzmit, make sure to visit the local markets early in the morning. An insider tip from locals is to start your day at the İzmit Bazaar, which is bustling with activity and offers a true taste of the city's vibrant culture. Arriving early not only allows you to avoid the midday crowds but also gives you the chance to engage with friendly vendors who are more than willing to share stories about the origins of their products. You'll find a variety of fresh produce, traditional Turkish delicacies, and unique handmade crafts that make perfect souvenirs. This early morning visit provides a genuine glimpse into daily life in İzmit and can be a delightful start to your day. Remember, the freshest and most unique items tend to be available in the morning, so set your alarm for a rewarding and enriching cultural experience.

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in İzmit, Turkey. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to İzmit, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Turkey. Check out the best things to do in İzmit. Compare the rates and services of the 2 types of stays and 1 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of İzmit with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in İzmit from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to İzmit with this travel guide.

Continue reading this İzmit travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the town of İzmit!

With destinations such as İzmit, a trip to Turkey needs no further explanation. Spanning over 783,562 square kilometers, Turkey is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Turkey has something to enchant every traveler.

In İzmit alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Doğu Kışla Youth Park, 42 Evler Cami, and Yahya Kaptan Merkez Cami. Thus, a trip to Turkey becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Turkey offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

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Expect an exhilarating journey through İzmit, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, İzmit offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate İzmit travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the town so special.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a town as fantastic as İzmit is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in İzmit usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central İzmit offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the town allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in İzmit and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in İzmit planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In İzmit, you'll find 2 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Turkey can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the luxury hotels in İzmit. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the town, allowing access to many of the top attractions in İzmit.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in İzmit in the following sections.

To navigate İzmit effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 1 car rental companies in İzmit, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in İzmit start at 46 EUR per day or 320 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Renault Clio. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in İzmit, starting at 40 EUR per day or 281 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Renault Clio.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in İzmit, Turkey below.

The town of İzmit is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Turkey. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Turkey has it all.

Each destination in Turkey offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Turkey that are as magical as the town of İzmit. The most popular travel destinations in Turkey are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

İzmit, a bustling city in Turkey's Marmara region, offers a variety of transportation options to help you navigate its vibrant streets and attractions. The city's public transit system is efficient and affordable, featuring buses that connect various neighborhoods and key landmarks. The İzmit Tram, a relatively new addition, provides a convenient and scenic route through the heart of the city, making stops at major points of interest.

Taxis are a readily available option for those who prefer a more direct and private mode of transport. They can be hailed on the street or booked via mobile apps, offering a flexible alternative to public transportation. For travelers looking for more freedom, rental cars are also an excellent choice. Several agencies in the city offer competitive rates and a range of vehicle options to suit your needs.

Additionally, İzmit is known for its minibuses, or 'dolmuş,' which are shared taxis operating on fixed routes. These provide a unique local experience and are a cost-effective way to get around. Whether you're exploring the city center or venturing to nearby attractions, İzmit's transportation network ensures you can travel with ease.