"Beautiful Izmir", as it is known in Turkish, is a lively and cosmopolitan coastal city which dates back to 3000 BC, and is flanked by ancient sites. The International Izmir Festival demonstrates the city's deep-roooted credentials as a cultural centre, welcoming visitors and participants both from Turkey and throughout the world.
The festival has a good track record of high quality performances of drama, music and dance. Festival performances take place in and around Izmir, but look out for those in the theatre at the ancient and magical ruins of Ephesus, which is a 50-minute drive from central Izmir.