Metropolis is one of the lesser-known ancient cities of the İzmir region, and that is part of its charm. It lies south of the city near the town of Torbalı, set in farmland and low hills, and has been studied by archaeologists for several decades. Its remains include a theatre, a bouleuterion or council house, baths, a gymnasium and a fortified acropolis, with carved details and inscriptions that show the city's importance during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Compared with the busiest ruins on the coast, Metropolis is quiet and unhurried, with plenty of room to walk and think. This tour adds a second pleasure, wine. The countryside around İzmir has a long winemaking tradition, and a tasting stop lets you try local wines in a cellar or vineyard setting, usually with snacks. The combination suits travellers who like a slower, more varied day than a standard ruins visit: a morning among stones, an afternoon among vines. It is also a handy half-day or day option for those who have already seen Ephesus and Pergamon and want something different.
What to expect
Pickup from the city, a drive south to the ancient site, a guided walk through the theatre, council house and baths, and then a tasting at a winery or vineyard. The itinerary, the number of wines tasted and any food included vary by operator, so read the details before booking. Walking at the site involves uneven ground and gentle slopes, and the vineyard stop may include a short walk between buildings.
Visiting well
Bring a hat, sun cream and sturdy shoes, and carry water, since shade at the ruins is limited. Spring and autumn are the best seasons, with comfortable temperatures and green or golden countryside; the vines are at their most photogenic around harvest time in early autumn. Because the tour includes alcohol, it is for adults, and anyone driving should skip the tasting. Let the operator know about dietary needs if food is served, and ask about the language of the guide.
Where it fits
Metropolis works as an alternative to the better-known day trips, and it sits well beside the Urla wine tasting tour for travellers who want a second vineyard experience on another day. Couples and small groups will enjoy the pace, and history lovers will appreciate the chance to see an archaeological site without crowds.
Plan a relaxed dinner in the evening, perhaps in Alsancak, and keep the rest of the day free. If you only have time for one wine experience, compare this tour with the Urla route and choose the one that suits your interest in ruins or in coastal scenery.
Good to know
Sites outside the main tourist routes have fewer facilities, so bring water and snacks and use the toilets at your tasting stop. Check whether the tour includes entry to the site and how much time is allowed there compared with the winery, since itineraries differ.
Ask about the guide's language and whether a printed map or information sheet is supplied. If you are travelling in winter, check that the site is open and that the vineyard visit is not affected by the weather. Dress in layers, since open ground can feel cooler and windier than the city.
What to expect
The experience
A guided trip to the ancient city of Metropolis with a wine tasting.
Best time
Spring and autumn, especially around the early autumn harvest.
How long
Half to full day, depending on the itinerary.
Tips
Wear sturdy shoes, bring sun protection and water, and leave the driving to the tour if you are tasting.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples and history lovers who want ruins and wine without crowds.
- Families
- Less suited to young children because of the tasting and uneven ground.
- Couples
- A quiet day of ruins and vineyards followed by a relaxed dinner.
- Pair with
- Urla wine country, Pergamon or an evening in Alsancak.
- Time needed
- Half to full day.
Good questions
What is Metropolis?+
An Ionian city south of İzmir with a theatre, a council house, baths and a fortified acropolis.
Is wine tasting included?+
The tour combines the ruins with a wine tasting. Check the product information for the number of wines and any food.
How far is Metropolis from İzmir?+
It lies south of the city near Torbalı, a drive of about an hour.
When is the best time to go?+
Spring and autumn offer comfortable weather, and early autumn is harvest season.
Is it suitable for children?+
The ruins suit older children, but the tasting is for adults, so it works best for couples and small adult groups.
