Guide to Bodrum and Izmir

Introduction

Located on Turkey’s Aegean coast, approximately 170 miles apart, Bodrum and Izmir are the premier resorts of a region that has long been a focus for holidaymakers from around the world.

Bodrum dates back to the 13th century BC. In antiquity, it was Halicarnassus, birthplace of Herodotus and site of the Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Today, stylish and still picturesque despite increasing development, it is something of a property hotspot.

With its whitewashed houses, narrow streets, palm-lined waterfront and yacht-filled marina, Bodrum is a popular haunt for artists. Among its historical attractions are the amphitheatre and 15th-century castle. Contemporary facilities include restaurants, shops, markets, art galleries, a beautiful beach and lively nightlife.

Izmir (formerly Smyrna), Turkey’s third largest city, is a bustling commercial centre and port, with a cosmopolitan ambience, elegant architecture, an attractive waterfront and a wealth of shops, hotels, bars, clubs and restaurants. During the International Arts Festival in June/July and the International Fair in August/September, it is particularly vibrant. Though Izmir dates from 3,000 BC, little of its heritage remains, as it was almost entirely rebuilt in the 1920s.

Attractions within the city include museums, parks and gardens, and a zoo. The beaches of Foca and Cesme lie within easy reach.

In the 1990s, the number of tourists visiting Izmir declined, and the housing market suffered in consequence. Recently, however, the Turkish government has been working to re-establish the city as a holiday destination, and property prices are rising.

The region

This is a land of spectacular scenery, magnificent sea views and ancient historical sites, including Ephesus, one of the best known and best preserved of all. In the fertile north, olives and citrus fruits are grown. The south is arid, with pine trees and sandy beaches.

Pristine seas make the area ideal for divers and snorkellers, who can explore a host of underwater caves and reefs. Boat trips, parasailing, sailing, jetskiing, waterskiing, windsurfing, riding, river-rafting and jeep safaris are also popular activities.

Climate

The region’s climate is similar to that of the Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, sometimes wet, winters. Humidity in this part of Turkey is among the country’s lowest.

Getting there

Both Bodrum and Izmir have international airports, though neither is serviced by low-cost airlines. From May to October, charter flights are available between Milas-Bodrum Airport and Gatwick, Luton, Stansted and most major UK regional airports. The number of charter services from the UK to Izmir is smaller, as is the choice of UK airports they fly from.

Property

In both the Bodrum and Izmir areas, new builds and resales (including properties requiring extensive renovation) are on offer. Prices vary according to size, location and condition.

Between £35,000 and £80,000 will buy an apartment in Bodrum. For around £150,000, you should be able to find a four-bedroom villa with swimming pool. In the Bodrum peninsula’s more exclusive resorts, such as Yalikavak, prices can be significantly higher.

During the season (May to October), demand for accommodation is strong, which makes buy to let an attractive proposition.

Though properties are available in the city of Izmir itself, it’s worth considering the surrounding villages, where prices are often lower. In Mordogan, a fishing village located between Izmir and Cesme, new-build two-bedroom apartments are available for around £40,000. In Cesme, a new detached four-bedroom villa can be yours for about £95,000.

Because Izmir is a large and cosmopolitan city, its rental season is well established and longer than that of most resorts. Returns can be as high as 10 per cent.

Local life

Carpets and rugs, leather, copper and bronze wares, silver, gold, onyx, handicrafts and embroidery are popular buys.

Both Bodrum and Izmir offer a cosmopolitan selection of eating places. As in the rest of Turkey, the local cuisine is a rich fusion of east and west, with extensive use of fresh fruit and vegetables. In Izmir’s many fish restaurants, the local speciality is grilled cipura, served with a green salad.

Conclusion

Because of its mild climate, beautiful scenery and low prices in comparison with more developed international markets, this part of Turkey has much to offer both second home purchasers and investors.