Most visitors picture Bornova as home to Ege University's sprawling campus — but its old quarters hide a cluster of Levantine mansions few tourists ever see. These "köşk" houses are 250 to 300 years old, and thirty-six of them are still standing in usable condition today.
Where Bornova's Levantine Heritage Comes From
During the Ottoman era, foreign merchant families trading out of İzmir built summer residences away from the crowded city centre, choosing Bornova for its cooler air and gardens. Over time these summer houses became permanent homes. Of the historic mansions still standing today, thirty-six remain usable, and nine are now used by Ege University as administrative or academic offices. The rest are privately owned, with some awaiting restoration.
Dramalılar Mansion: The City's Living Museum
One mansion, Dramalılar Köşkü, is the district's only Levantine house open to the public on a regular basis. Following a restoration by Bornova Municipality between 2010 and 2012, the building reopened on 3 November 2012 as the Bornova City Archive and Museum. Inside, photographs, documents and period objects trace the district's history, and the mansion's original room layout and courtyard have been preserved intact.
The Mansions Inside Ege University's Campus
The other nine mansions sit inside or near Ege University's campus and mostly serve as offices for academic or administrative staff. They aren't open for casual visits the way the museum is — you can admire the architecture from outside while walking through campus grounds. Security checkpoints generally don't ask visitors for a student ID, but entering the buildings themselves isn't possible; photographing from the street is the respectful way to see them.
Getting from the Airport to Bornova
A private transfer from İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport to Bornova is far more comfortable than public transport, especially if you're travelling with luggage or in a group. Our Bornova airport transfer route has your driver meet you at the terminal and take you straight to the City Archive and Museum's doorstep.
Best Time to Go and What to Bring
Morning light and quieter streets make mornings the best time to explore the mansions. Spring and autumn are more comfortable than the height of summer, when the heat makes walking between houses tiring. Half a day is enough for the museum itself, but set aside a full morning if you also want to walk the campus grounds. Wear comfortable shoes — courtyards and garden paths are cobbled. Check Bornova Municipality's official website for current opening details before you go.
Who Should Visit — and Who Shouldn't
Architecture buffs, history photographers, and business travellers with a free hour after a meeting at Ege University will all find Bornova worthwhile. Cobbled courtyards make wheelchairs and strollers awkward, so keep that in mind if you're travelling with elderly relatives or a baby. If you're chasing a beach or nightlife, or only have a tight window between the airport and your hotel, this isn't the priority stop — spend that time on the coast instead.
Pairing Bornova with the Rest of Your Trip
Bornova's closeness to central İzmir makes it easy to fold into a city-day itinerary. You could visit the 2,400-year-old Kemeraltı Bazaar in Konak the same day and be back in the city centre by evening. Travelling for business? Our corporate VIP transfer service links meeting venues and the airport with one driver, no waiting around. First time in Bornova? Starting at the City Archive and Museum and walking the campus perimeter is the simplest way to get your bearings.