Located in the heart of İzmir’s bustling Konak Square, the iconic Clock Tower (Saat Kulesi) is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Built in 1901 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Sultan Abdulhamid II's reign, the tower stands as a symbol of the city’s rich history and architectural heritage. Standing at 25 meters tall, the tower features an ornate design with Ottoman influences, including a marble base and an intricately designed clock face. Surrounded by a charming public square, the Clock Tower is a popular spot for tourists to visit and for locals to gather. Whether you’re strolling through Konak Square or simply admiring the beautiful tower, the Clock Tower is a perfect representation of İzmir’s blend of old and new.
Clock Tower Tours & Excursions
€65
starts from
The Basics
The Clock Tower is situated in Konak Square, one of İzmir’s busiest and most vibrant areas. The tower was designed by the Levantine architect Raymond Charles Pére, and its construction was a gift to the people of İzmir from the Sultan. Its four clock faces are complemented by decorative ironwork and a fountain at its base. The tower is made of marble and is topped with a copper-covered dome. The Clock Tower is not just a historical monument but also an important symbol of the city’s modernization during the late Ottoman period. Today, it remains an essential stop for anyone visiting İzmir.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Clock Tower is an open-air monument, so visitors can admire its design from all angles at any time of day. While you can’t enter the tower itself, the surrounding Konak Square offers plenty of opportunities to take photos and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s a lively area with street vendors, cafes, and restaurants where you can sit and soak in the local culture. Since it’s a popular tourist attraction, the area can get crowded, especially in the afternoons and on weekends. Be prepared for a busy environment, and keep an eye on your belongings. There’s no admission fee, making it an easily accessible attraction for everyone.
How to Get There
Reaching the Clock Tower is very easy from anywhere in İzmir. If you're staying in central İzmir, you can easily walk to Konak Square, as it’s centrally located. For those staying further out, you can take the İzmir Metro or a local bus to Konak. The Konak Metro Station is just a few minutes’ walk from the tower. Taxis are also a convenient option, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or in a group. If you're exploring İzmir by foot, you’ll find that the Clock Tower is well-signposted, and Konak Square is a common landmark for tourists and locals alike.
When to Get There
The best time to visit the Clock Tower is early in the morning or in the evening when the weather is cooler, and the square isn’t as crowded. During the day, the area can get busy, as Konak Square is a central hub for both locals and tourists. Visiting during the morning or late afternoon allows you to experience the beauty of the tower with fewer people around, giving you a better opportunity to take photos. In the evenings, the tower is beautifully illuminated, creating a lovely atmosphere perfect for an evening stroll. The tower is a year-round attraction, so it's a great stop no matter the season.
Day Trips from Izmir
If you're staying in İzmir, visiting the Clock Tower is a must-do activity and can easily be incorporated into a day trip around the city. The tower is centrally located in Konak Square, which is a short walk from other major attractions like the İzmir Kemeraltı Bazaar, the Konak Pier, and the Yalı Mosque. For those interested in experiencing the city’s vibrant atmosphere, spending time at Konak Square and nearby landmarks will make for an enjoyable day trip. You can explore the area by foot, enjoy local cafes, and shop for souvenirs in the bustling bazaar. Whether you’re on a guided tour or exploring independently, the Clock Tower is an easy and enriching addition to your İzmir itinerary.
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