The climate is mild, and in the summer the constant and refreshing sea breezes temper the sun's heat. Behind the palm-lined promenades and avenues which follow the shoreline, the city, in horizontal terraces, gently ascends the slopes of the surrounding mountains. A cosmopolitan and lively city, galleries, theaters and cultural events give Izmir its special vibrancy. The original settlement was established in the third millennium B.C. and represented the most advanced culture in western Anatolia at that time. Over the years this thriving city and the surrounding area had come under the suzerainty of the Hittites , lonians , Lydians , Persians , Byzantines , Seljuks and Ottomans .
Marina provides an excellent place to begin a yachting adventure.
Sailing in and around the beautiful Gulf of Izmir will prepare voyagers for the wonderful sites that lie ahead. At Urla Iskelesi , the small islands that dot the coast will certainly charm you. Beautiful beaches and excellent moorings with swimming, snorkeling and diving are all available in the area. F rom Urla Iskelesi sail on to the Karaburun Paninsula. At Karaburun, pleasant hotels , tea gardens and fish restaurants sit between the beautiful mountain backdrop and the clear, clean water.