Izmir Airport in Turkey-Guide ~ Travel and Leisure

The Izmir Airport in Turkey is a long 11-mile drive to the city center. Even so, there are buses that can take you there directly. However, the Havas Bus Lines that cover this route follow scheduled trips to the Izmir city center. Travel intervals are every 20 to 60 minutes. There are lots of taxis everywhere, although the fares could get really high especially for foreign travelers. If you decide to take a cab to get you to town, try to haggle with the driver for the best rate. Also, the fare could get twice as high at nighttime.

If you don't want to ride the bus or take a cab, there are two more options for you. You can go for the train, which is a short walk from the covered walkway of the Izmir International Terminal or you can drive a rented car. The Izmir stop of the train is at Alsancak Gari, which is in the northern part of the town and not on the city center. Trains travel hourly. The fare is cheap but the train facilities may not be superior.

The best way to get around Izmir, of course is through your own car. Hire a car prior to arrival or you can simply do so while at the airport. Between these two options, the latter would give you more convenience because your hired car would be waiting for you at the parking area. Book a car online before flying to Izmir for the best travel experience.

Inside the Izmir airport, you got all the basic travelers' facilities available. There are information desks both at the domestic and international terminal public areas. There is also a separate desk for reporting lost baggage. Should you need to change your money to the local currency, the Bureau de Change is available for you. Of course, you still have the option to exchange your money with a bank for better rates.

Telephones, toilets, baby change facilities, cafes, bars, and shops are easily found in and around the international and domestic terminals for your optimum convenience. A VIP lounge for priority passengers is available in the international terminal as well. For disabled passengers, a wheelchair can be requested.