Luxury Holidays to Izmir

Luxury holidays in Izmir offer ancient days and beachy nights fit for any VIP

Flying to luxurious Izmir from the UK will set you down in just under four hours.

The third largest district in Turkey and one of the country’s most important port cities, Izmir is a big deal. It’s a coastal spot that keeps things lively with museums, beaches and some seriously historic architecture – when we say Izmir is old, we mean more than 4,000 years old – but also sparkles under the hot Mediterranean sun. Luxurious amenities are something you’ll find in abundance here, drenched in the local colour, so you know you’re getting an authentic experience.

Just take Kusadasi for example – home to eight beaches alone, this resort knows how to get you out and into the great outdoors. Don’t confuse that with sweaty hikes in the wilderness – we mean sunbed-speckled sands that are home to a smattering of upscale hotels, plus spas, shopping and ancient architecture beyond. Things go down a notch in terms of energy with resorts like Seferihisar, a small agricultural town with a designer marina and big time hotels to its name. But whatever resort you choose, you can expect a whole lot of opulence.

Living the high life in Izmir

The high life in Izmir doesn’t offer your typical luxury amenities, but that’s why we love it here. You’ll still have all the same treats you’re used to – 4* and 5* super hotels, pampering spa treatments – but with a unique Izmir twist.

Days in Seferihisar are spent lounging around your hotel’s pool with a cocktail in hand or perusing the swanky marina, while Kusadasi fancies itself a bit of a Renaissance spot. It’s kitted out with clothing and leather stores, its very own Bar Street – known as Barlar Sokak – and a waterfront where quiet, elegant restaurants dish up your favourite Turkish treats. Kusadasi is also a great jumping off points for private tours of Ephesus, one of the world’ best-preserved ancient Roman towns.

Other popular holidays in Turkey

If you love the idea of a luxury holiday to Turkey but still aren’t quite sure where in this Mediterranean country you’d like to go, we’ll point you in the right direction. Check out other Turkish destinations like Dalaman, Bodrum and Antalya. But if your heart is still set on Izmir, have a look at our Izmir travel guide for more information. In the meantime, here are our top hotels you can stay in during your luxury Izmir holiday.

Other popular luxury holidays

Dalaman | Greece | Cyprus | Hurghada

Tusan Beach Resort

This high-flying resort is stashed right along the coast, so sea views are a given. Inside, you’ll find interiors in every shade of coffee, cut with pops of colour and funky patterns, not to mention three restaurants and a poolside spot. Speaking of pools, there are three here, though we’re guessing your days will probably be spent liaising in the spa, sauna or Turkish baths. That, and shopping in the hotel’s on-site leather or jewellery shop.

Palm Wings Ephesus Beach Resort

With a 5* rating and a private beach to its name, the Palm Wings Ephesus Beach Resort is luxury at its finest. There are six restaurants on offer here – with cuisines including Turkish, Mexican and seafood – along with four bars, one of which is on the beach. Choose from one of three pools lined with sunbeds and umbrellas, or start pampering yourself with the spa scene, where you’ll find a sauna, spa treatments, Turkish baths and a hairdresser.

Palm Wings Kusadasi Beach Resort

This 4* stunner is also right along the beach, though the pool scene is really where the luxury begins. Choose from a number of pools, including a huge lagoon pool and water slides. If that’s not enough water time for you, consider staying in one of the sumptuous swim-up rooms. You won’t have to venture far for cocktails, seeing as there are three bars on-site. The same goes for pampering – here, there’s the spa and sauna, Turkish baths and even an aquagym all at your fingertips.