General Information
The İzmir Blue Train operates between Ankara and İzmir every day. It follows the Ankara-Eskişehir-Kütahya-Balıkesir-Manisa-İzmir (Basmane) route. The İzmir Blue Train consists of normal seat (pulman) coaches, sleeping couchette (kuşet) coaches and a dining car. Travel time between Ankara (departs at 20.00) and İzmir (departs at 18.00) takes an average of 13 hours and 40 minutes.
Main Stopping Points
Ankara
The nation’s capital, Ankara is a thriving city with a mix of government workers, university students, bankers and doctors populating the city. The city is home to a few notable tourist attractions. Situated on the hilltop overlooking the city is Ankara Castle and the old town lies inside its walls. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is situated beneath the castle walls and houses the largest collection of Hittite artefacts in the world as well as a staggering array of other pieces. It is well worth a visit.
Eskişehir
The name, which translates as “Old City” is ironic nowadays because the city is famous for its youth culture and student population. Home to two of Türkiye’s largest Universities, Eskişehir is often referred to as ‘Student City’.
Kütahya
A lesser-known part of Central Anatolia, Kütahya is most famous for its colourful porcelain tiles. However, the Temple of Zeus at Aizanoi is perhaps one of the best-preserved Roman temples in Türkiye and is well worth the visit.
Balıkesir
Balıkesir ranks high for its natural beauty, ancient cultural heritage and hot waters. You can ‘heal’ in rich hot waters, see archaeological treasures, cool on blue-flagged beaches and indulge in nature rich endemic species of Mound Ida. Getting to know the gastronomic values of this olive-scented city, where green and blue meet, will provide you with an unforgettable experience.
Manisa
Manisa, historically known as Magnesia, is a large city in Türkiye's Aegean Region. Modern Manisa is a booming centre of industry and services, advantaged by its closeness to the international port city and the regional metropolitan centre of İzmir and by its fertile hinterland rich in quantity and variety of agricultural production
İzmir (Basmane)
İzmir, the “Pearl of the Aegean,” is the birthplace of the epic poet Homer and a city with 8,500 years of history. In recent history, it was known as Smyrna. A coastline of more than 600 kilometres and of unmatched beauty is embroidered with magnificent ancient cities, two of which, Pergamon and Ephesus, are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.