Today, is Turkey's third largest city and is nicknamed "Occidental Izmir" or "The pearl of the Aegean ". It is widely regarded as the most Westernized city of Turkey in terms of values, ideology, lifestyle, and gender roles.
Izmir is also home-town of some famous singers like Sezen Aksu.
The city hosts an international arts festival during June/July, and an international fair during August/September every year.
Modern Izmir also incorporates world-famous ancient cities like Ephesus, Pergamon, and Sardis. Turkish Internet phenomenon Mahir Çagri is a resident.
There is one modern subway line running Southwest to Northeast.