Especially if you are interested in history, the first stop of the day in İzmir should definitely be Ephesus. The unique ancient city, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, is approximately 80 km from the city center. When you see the distance to the city while driving to see this unique heritage, you will be pleased that you have saved a great time by renting a car. Many impressive structures await you in Ephesus, which hosts the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the world. St. John's Basilica, Virgin Mary Church and Celsus Library are some of them.
