The small Aegean town of Urla in storms and rough seas

Friday, 14 February 2025 15:46
Written by Portal Editor

The cute Aegean town of Urla is located about 38 km west of the city center of Izmir and stretches about 11 km parallel to the main road towards Izmir.

Due to its close proximity to Izmir, Urla is often used by local residents as a weekend recreation destination. All the typical features of a small Aegean town can be found here too.

Urla is now only part of the province of Izmir and Ephesus

Urla İskelesi, which was known in ancient times as Klazomenai, offers a small marina and various accommodations in all price categories. The center of the city is about 4 kilometers from the beach. Menteş, Malgaça, Bademler, Barbaros, Demircili, Kuscular, Yagcilar, Özbek, Gülbahçe and Balıklıova are cute little villages that offer very nice beaches in the area around Urla.

In ancient times, Urla was an important cultural centre with what was probably the most frequently used port in the world, which was regularly visited. Originally, the Ionian centre of the place was part of the city of Klazomenai, which was owned by the Dorians during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. During this period, the mainland was more or less uninhabited and thus the Karantina peninsula grew in importance. Later, during the Byzantine period, Urla lost more and more influence and importance until it was finally only part of the provinces of Izmir and Ephesus.

The oldest recorded olive press can be found in the area around the ancient city of Klazomenai. Traces in the register entries also indicate that the first export of olive oil by sea took place from here. Much later, during the 16th century, transport by sea became increasingly dangerous due to the many pirates.

Urla was also home to some important philosophers, poets and other writers. The philosopher Anaxagoras and the Greek poet and Nobel Prize winner Giorgos Seferis were among those born in Urla. The Turkish novelist Necati Cumalı and Neyzen Tevfik grew up in Urla. The Turkish musician Tanju Okan lived in Urla and the novelist Yılmaz Karakoyunlu is still a resident of the city.

An insider tip on the Turkish Aegean

Urla - this name almost sounds like music to the ears, doesn't it? A place known for its tranquillity, charm and mix of history and nature. But what makes this small town on the Turkish Aegean coast so special? If you are looking for a place to escape the hectic city life, then you should definitely make a detour to Urla.

Urla: A little paradise on the Aegean

Urla is a small town near Izmir, about 38 kilometres away, but it feels like a world of its own. The quiet streets are lined with charming, old houses, and the Aegean always seems to be just a step away. But what really makes Urla is the wonderful atmosphere and the hospitality of the locals. The place has become a popular destination for travellers in recent years, but there is still that little, intimate touch that makes the place so unique.

A history deeply rooted in the past

The region around Urla has a long history. The area was already inhabited in ancient times and nearby are the ruins of the ancient city of Klazomenai, which was one of the twelve Ionian cities. The excavations and historical sites still provide a fascinating testimony to the past, so if you love history, you will get your money's worth here.

But even if you are not a history buff, you will appreciate the charm of the old streets and buildings. It is like walking through a living museum - everything has its own story to tell.

Urla for wine lovers: A paradise for the palate

One of Urla's greatest treasures is its wine culture. If you are a fan of good wine, you will end up in paradise here. The region around Urla is known for its wineries, which not only produce excellent wines but also open their wineries to visitors. The Urla Karası grape in particular, a rare variety that only grows here, has established itself as an insider tip among wine lovers.

Not only can you taste the wines, but you can also enjoy the beautiful vineyards that gently stretch to the horizon. A tour of the vineyards combined with a wine tasting is an experience you shouldn't miss.

Culinary discoveries: From fresh fish to traditional dishes

Urla not only offers wines, but also excellent cuisine. The Aegean is famous for its fresh seafood, and Urla has a number of restaurants that serve you these delicacies straight from the sea. But traditional Turkish cuisine also has a lot to offer here. Whether fresh fish, stuffed dumplings (börek) or local specialties such as artichokes or olives - here you can immerse yourself in the flavours of the region.

It is particularly nice to sit down in the evening on one of the restaurant terraces, which often tempt you with a view of the sea and the sunset. The food tastes better not only because of the flavours, but also because of the surroundings.

Cultural Discoveries in Urla

Urla is not only a place to relax and enjoy, but also a centre for art and culture.

The city has been spawning more and more art galleries and studios in recent years, attracting both local artists and international creatives. You will always find small art galleries in the streets of Urla that invite you to browse and marvel.

Sanat Sokağı (Art Street) is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the creative atmosphere of Urla. Here you will find not only art, but also small boutiques selling handmade goods. It is the ideal place to find a unique souvenir or simply enjoy the creative spirit of the city.

Urla Beaches: A Place of Peace and Relaxation

If you love the sea, you will also appreciate Urla. The region has some of the most beautiful beaches on the Aegean coast. A particularly beautiful beach is Demircili Beach, known for its tranquillity and clear, turquoise ocean. If you want to leave the hustle and bustle of the tourist hotspots behind, Urla is the perfect place to relax in complete peace and seclusion.

Festivals and events: The soul of the city

Urla is known for its festivals and events that take place throughout the year. Of particular note is the Wine Festival, which is celebrated every year and where you can taste local wines. But the Artichoke Festival and the Arts and Culture Festival also have their place in the city's calendar. These events give you the opportunity to delve even deeper into Urla's culture and traditions.

Conclusion: Why Urla should be your next travel destination

Urla is more than just a picturesque town. It is a place that will amaze you with its history, culture, gastronomy and nature. Whether you are strolling through the old streets, tasting a wine or simply relaxing on the beach, Urla has everything you need to have an unforgettable time.