Izmir, Turkish Seaside in $480s-$580s RT

The vast, vast majority of US-Turkey flights have you landing in Istanbul. The bustling metropolis is a pretty cool city, but there's sooooo much more to the country.

Today's journey drops you in Izmir: an unbelievably ancient seaside gem along the Aegean. Airfare to smaller cities like this usually comes at a premium, so landing right here on the coast is a rare treat!

You'll still get the famous Turkish highlights — eclectic bazaars, massive mosques, life-changing coffee — but with an extra side of neon blue waves and laid-back beach culture. It's Turkey, sans the chaos of Istanbul. 

But don't be fooled, Izmir offers plenty of excitement. After all, not every city offers day trips of biblical proportions :-)