population: 0.30 million

extension: 1,359.56 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in İzmit (Turkey) and interested in visiting museums, you should check out the Izmit Archeological Museum. It's located in the city center and has a collection of artifacts from the ancient Roman city of Nicomedia and other nearby archaeological sites. Additionally, you can also consider visiting the Kocaeli Museum, which is located in neighboring city Kocaeli and showcases regional history and culture.

If you're looking for other similar places to visit near Izmit, you may consider checking out Istanbul, which is about an hour away by car. Istanbul has several world-renowned museums such as the Hagia Sophia Museum, Topkapi Palace Museum, and Istanbul Archaeological Museums.

Food

In İzmit, some of the most recommended, popular and typical dishes according to local people include:

1. Izmit Kofte: A type of meatball made with ground beef and bulgur wheat, often served with tomato sauce and yogurt.

2. Pide: A type of Turkish pizza, typically topped with cheese, vegetables, and meat.

3. Adana kebab: A spicy grilled meat dish usually made with lamb or beef and served with flatbread, vegetables, and a side of yogurt.

4. Lahmacun: A thin, crispy round dough topped with minced meat, vegetables, herbs, and spices.

5. Manti: A type of dumpling filled with ground beef and spices, served with yogurt and a tomato-based sauce.

6. Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, chopped nuts, and honey syrup.

7. Simit: A popular street food in Turkey, which is a sesame-covered bread ring that can be enjoyed as a snack or breakfast item.

These dishes are readily available in various restaurants and cafes around İzmit, so you should have no trouble finding them to enjoy during your visit.

Activities

Sure! Here are some fun activities that local people like in İzmit, Turkey:

1. Take a walk along the Gulf of İzmit: The scenic waterfront is a popular spot for locals to stroll, jog, or sit and enjoy the views.

2. Explore the historic city center: İzmit has a charming old town with narrow streets, Ottoman-era buildings, and traditional bazaars where you can shop for souvenirs and local crafts.

3. Visit the Kartepe Ski Resort: If you're visiting in the winter months, Kartepe Ski Resort is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.

4. Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine: İzmit is known for its delicious food, so be sure to try some local specialties such as İzmit köfte (meatballs), manti (Turkish dumplings), and baklava (sweet pastry).

5. Relax in a thermal spa: İzmit has several natural hot springs and thermal spas where you can unwind and rejuvenate.

6. Attend local festivals and events: İzmit hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year, such as the Kocaeli Book Fair, the International Izmit Festival, and the Kocaeli Youth Festival, where you can experience local traditions and customs.