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If you have done the things to do in Turkey, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Assos.
Nestled along the crystalline waters of the Ionian Sea, Assos is a tranquil village that exudes charm, culture, and scenic splendor.
From exploring ancient ruins that tell tales of a rich history, to unearthing hidden beaches that promise isolation and serenity, there is no shortage of things to do in Assos.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Assos:
1. Assos Castle
A historic castle located on the Assos Peninsula in Turkey.
What to see or do: Explore the castle grounds and take in the stunning views of the Aegean Sea. There are also various rooms and structures to explore within the castle walls.
Don’t miss: The watchtower at the top of the castle, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there is a moderate hike up to the castle, and bring sunscreen and a hat as there is little shade available.
Also, try to visit early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the midday crowds and heat.
2. Assos Beach
A small, secluded beach located on the western coast of Kefalonia island in Greece.
What to see or do: Enjoy the crystal clear waters, golden sand, and stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Take a refreshing swim, go snorkeling, or simply soak up the sun on the beach.
There are also a few tavernas where you can grab a bite to eat.
Don’t miss: The impressive Venetian castle ruins that overlook the beach. Take a short hike up to the castle for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: As Assos Beach is popular with locals and tourists alike, try to arrive early to secure a spot on the beach.
Alternatively, visit during the shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) for fewer crowds. Be prepared to pay a small entrance fee for access to the beach.
3. Ayazma Beach
Ayazma Beach is a secluded and picturesque beach nestled in the charming village of Assos in Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy swimming in the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea, sunbathing on the soft sand, and exploring the rocky cliffs surrounding the beach.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a stroll around the charming village of Assos and admire the stunning views of the island of Lesbos in the distance.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to get a good spot on the beach as it can get crowded during peak season.
Also, it’s a good idea to bring your own food and drinks as there are limited options for dining near the beach.
4. Temple of Athena Assos
The Temple of Athena Assos is an ancient Greek temple located on a hilltop overlooking the Aegean Sea, near the modern-day town of Behramkale in Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ruins of the 2,400-year-old temple and soak in stunning views of the sea and surrounding landscape. The temple’s design, with its commanding columns and imposing pediment, is an impressive example of ancient Greek architecture.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take time to appreciate the temple’s stunning setting. The hilltop location offers expansive views out to sea and over the surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: Be prepared for a bit of a steep climb to reach the temple, but the views from the top are well worth it.
Also, consider visiting the nearby ancient city of Assos for an even deeper dive into the region’s rich history.
5. Ancient City of Assos
The ancient city of Assos is an archaeological site located in the Çanakkale province of Turkey, overlooking the Aegean Sea.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the remains of the ancient city, including the well-preserved 2,400-year-old Temple of Athena. The site also features an ancient theater, city walls, a gymnasium, and the fortress of Assos.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the Aegean Sea from the ancient city are not to be missed. Be sure to also explore the nearby Assos harbor with its charming fishing village and waterfront restaurants.
Insider travel tips: Plan to visit the site early in the day before the crowds arrive. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking on uneven terrain.
Be sure to bring water and sunscreen as the site can be quite hot and exposed. For an authentic souvenir, stop by one of the local villages for handmade olive oil soap.
6. Behramkale Village
Behramkale Village, also known as Assos, is a charming Turkish village located on a hillside overlooking the Aegean Sea. It was once a significant ancient Greek city and is now a popular tourist destination.
What to see or do: Visit the ancient ruins of the city, including the impressive Temple of Athena and the acropolis with its stunning views of the sea.
Take a stroll through the picturesque village streets and admire the beautiful Ottoman houses and traditional stone houses. Swim and sunbathe on the nearby beaches or take a boat trip along the coast.
Don’t miss: The sunset views from the top of the hill are breathtaking. Be sure to try the local cuisine, including freshly caught seafood and traditional meze dishes.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to beat the crowds and the heat, as there is not much shade in the archaeological site. Wear comfortable shoes as there are plenty of stairs to climb.
To get the best views, visit during the golden hour or in the evening when the sky is illuminated in orange and pink hues.
7. Assos Harbor
Assos Harbor is a charming little fishing village nestled in a picturesque cove on the west coast of Kefalonia island in Greece.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and soak in the tranquil ambience of the place. Admire the colorful fishing boats bobbing in the crystal clear turquoise waters of the bay.
Discover the quaint traditional houses with their tiled roofs and gorgeous flower-filled gardens.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the Venetian Fortress that towers above the village, dating back to the 16th century.
It’s a steep climb up to the top but the staggering views of the Ionian Sea are well worth the effort.
Insider travel tips: Dine at one of the local taverns and savor the catch of the day or enjoy a drink at one of the waterfront cafes.
Assos Harbor is less crowded than other tourist spots in Kefalonia so it’s an ideal getaway for travelers looking for a peaceful and romantic holiday.
8. Kadirga Bay
Kadirga Bay is a picturesque cove located in the charming village of Assos, in Turkey.
What to see or do: Enjoy swimming in the crystal clear waters of the bay, relax on the pebble beach, or rent a kayak to explore the coastline.
Don’t miss: The stunning view of the Assos Castle perched on a hill overlooking the bay. This is a perfect spot for a photo opportunity.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the day to secure a good spot on the beach.
Note that there are no facilities available and the closest amenities can be found in the village, a short walk away.
Additionally, it’s worth exploring the charming streets of Assos while you’re here.
9. Sokakagzi Beach
A beautiful secluded beach on the Aegean Coast of Turkey, located in the village of Assos.
What to see or do: Enjoy the crystal clear turquoise water and white pebble beach while soaking up the sun. You can also go for a swim or snorkel to explore the underwater marine life.
For those who love adventure, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities in the area.
Don’t miss: Head to the nearby Assos village and explore its ancient ruins, including the Temple of Athena and the Assos Acropolis. You can also sample delicious seafood and Turkish cuisine in the charming local restaurants.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, visit Sokakagzi Beach early in the morning or during weekdays.
You should also bring your own beach towels, as there are no sun loungers or umbrellas available for rent on the beach.
Finally, make sure to carry enough water and snacks as there are no nearby shops or vendors.
10. Kaz Mountains National Park
Kaz Mountains National Park is a protected area in northwestern Turkey, covering 32,000 hectares of forests, meadows, and mountains.
What to see or do: Visitors can hike on the park’s trails, see stunning views of the Aegean Sea, and explore the oak, pine, and chestnut forests.
The park is perfect for birdwatching and observing wildlife.
Don’t miss: A visit to the ancient city of Assos, located on the southern coast of the park. This city was an important commercial and cultural center during the ancient Greek and Roman periods.
Explore the ruins of the Temple of Athena, the Theater, and the Acropolis.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the park is from May to September. If you are planning to hike, wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.
Be sure to see the sunset from Assos for an unforgettable experience. Take time to explore the surrounding villages and taste the delicious local food and wine.
11. Kadırga Cove
A secluded and picturesque cove located in the historic village of Assos on the Aegean coast of Turkey.
What to see or do: Relax on the pristine sandy beach, swim in the clear turquoise waters, or go snorkelling to explore the local marine life.
Take a walk along the scenic coastal trails and admire the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding hills.
Don’t miss: Watching the sunset over the cove while sipping on a refreshing cocktail at one of the seaside cafes. Also, make sure to sample the fresh seafood at the local seafood restaurants.
Insider travel tips: The cove can get busy in peak season, so consider visiting during off-peak periods for a more peaceful experience. Bring your own towels and snorkelling equipment as rentals can be scarce.
Additionally, be prepared for a steep descent to the cove and limited parking.
12. Likya Trail
Likya Trail: A beautiful hiking trail that stretches over 500 km along the coast of Turkey, passing through several ancient Roman ruins and historic sites.
What to see or do: Hike along the trail and take in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, visit the ancient ruins of Olympos and Patara, explore the charming town of Kas, and enjoy swimming in the clear turquoise waters.
Don’t miss: The Chimera, a natural eternal flame burning for thousands of years on a hillside near Olympos. It is said to be the inspiration for the myth of the fire-breathing Chimera.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and pack plenty of sunscreen and water. Be sure to try the local cuisine in Kas, known for its fresh seafood and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Don’t miss the opportunity to go diving or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters to see the spectacular marine life.
13. Crater Lake
Crater Lake is a stunningly beautiful lake that is located in the village of Assos on the Greek island of Kefalonia.
It is a natural wonder that attracts thousands of visitors every year.
What to see or do: The deep blue waters of Crater Lake are surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation, making it a picture-perfect spot for sightseeing, hiking, and swimming.
Visitors can also rent a boat and explore the lake up close. The lake is popular for its crystal-clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to hike to the top of the surrounding cliffs for breathtaking views of the lake. It is a challenging climb, but the view from the top is worth the effort.
You should also plan a visit to the nearby village of Assos, a charming and picturesque village that is nestled at the foot of the cliffs.
Insider travel tips: To beat the crowds, plan to visit Crater Lake early in the morning or towards the end of the day. The lake’s waters can get chilly, so bring a wetsuit if you plan on swimming or diving.
Be sure to stay hydrated, as the hike to the top of the cliffs can be quite strenuous on a hot day.
Finally, be respectful of the environment and follow the Leave No Trace principles when exploring the lake and surrounding areas.
14. Kozlu Village
A small traditional village located in Assos on the western coast of Turkey.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the village and admire its cobblestone streets, charming stone houses and lush greenery. Visit the local market for handmade souvenirs and taste the delicious local cuisine.
Take a boat trip to explore the surrounding beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the ancient ruins of Assos, such as the Temple of Athena and the Acropolis.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the offseason for a more peaceful and authentic experience. Be sure to try the local olive oil and figs, which are known for their exceptional taste.
Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets.