Izmir in July

April through June is perfect. Temperatures hover around 22-26°C, the Aegean is swimmable, and you can explore Ephesus without melting. May especially hits the sweet spot – warm enough for beach days but cool enough for walking tours. September and October work beautifully too. The summer crowds have gone home, sea temperatures are still pleasant, and restaurant patios reopen after the brutal August heat. Plus, flight prices drop significantly after Turkish school holidays end. Avoid July and August unless you love 35°C heat and paying peak prices for everything. December through March brings rain and cool temperatures, but also empty archaeological sites and rock-bottom hotel rates if you don't mind bundling up.