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There are an array of things to do in Turkey, with Ayvalik sharing quite a few of those!
Embark on a sensory journey through the charming streets of Ayvalik, where the salty sea breeze intermingles with the warm scent of freshly baked pastries, and the colorful buildings extend a friendly invitation to explore the town’s hidden treasures.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Ayvalik:
1. Cunda Island
A small island located in the Aegean Sea, in the western coast of Turkey.
What to see or do: Explore the quaint village streets with stone houses, visit the historic Taksiyarhis Church, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the island’s beaches, enjoy fresh seafood at seaside restaurants, hike up to the island’s hilltop for a panoramic view, and take a boat tour of the nearby bays and islands.
Don’t miss: A visit to the island’s local market on Saturdays, where you can find handmade souvenirs, local produce, and traditional treats like olive oil soap and Turkish delight.
Insider travel tips: Book your accommodation in advance, as the island’s popularity has been steadily increasing. Don’t forget to try the island’s famous dessert, “Sakızlı Muhallebi” (Mastic Pudding).
If you have time, take a day trip to the nearby Greek island of Lesbos for a taste of Greek culture and cuisine.
2. Taksiyarhis Church
Taksiyarhis Church is a historic Greek Orthodox Church located in Ayvalik, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the unique architecture of this church, which was built in the 1800s. The interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes and mosaics that are worth seeing.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the bell tower, which provides stunning views of Ayvalik and the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. Also, be respectful when visiting and dress appropriately, as it is still a functioning church.
3. Sarimsakli Beach
A stunning sandy beach located on the western coast of Turkey.
What to see or do: Relax on the golden sand, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the stunning views. There are also various water sports activities available, such as parasailing and jet skiing.
Don’t miss: Walking along the promenade where you can find plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Insider travel tips: Sarimsakli Beach can get crowded during peak season, so it’s recommended to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Additionally, be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated as the sun can be quite strong. For the best sunset views, head to one of the nearby hills overlooking the beach.
4. Altinova Beach
Altinova Beach is a treasure located on the outskirts of Ayvalik on Turkey’s Aegean coast.
What to see or do: Altinova Beach boasts crystal-clear turquoise water and pristine sand, ideal for all kinds of water-based activities including swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Visitors can also relax under the shade of trees that line the beach, go for a leisurely walk along the shore or enjoy a picnic with friends and family.
Don’t miss: The highlight of Altinova Beach is its stunning views of the Aegean Sea, especially during sunset.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit Altinova Beach early in the morning or late afternoon. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to protect yourself from the sun.
Also, bring your own food and drinks, as there aren’t many cafes or restaurants nearby.
5. Devil’s Table (Sehitler Tepesi)
A stunning natural wonder located in Ayvalik, Turkey.
What to see or do: Marvel at the breathtaking views overlooking the Aegean Sea. Take a hike up to the summit and enjoy a picnic while taking in the stunning landscapes.
For the adventure-seekers, try rock climbing or paragliding.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views at sunset are simply incredible and not to be missed. You can also take a guided tour to learn about the history and geography of the area.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, especially if you’re planning to hike to the summit. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Also, be prepared for narrow, winding roads to get to the top.
6. Ayvalik Islands
Ayvalik Islands is a cluster of 22 beautiful islands located in the Aegean Sea,off the western coast of Turkey.
What to see or do: Enjoy the serene waters along with kayaking,swimming, and activities like watersports and fishing. The islands boast of rocky cliffs, turquoise bays, lush vegetation, and pristine beaches that would make for perfect lazy afternoons.
Don’t miss: Plan a day trip to Cunda, Fisherman’s Museum and Monastery of Taxiarches, and Şeytan Sofrası to take in the panoramic views of the archipelago.
Insider travel tips: Camping is not allowed on the islands, but visitors can find camping spots on the mainland.
7. Alibey Island
Alibey Island is a small island located in the Aegean Sea, near the coastal town of Ayvalik in Turkey.
What to see or do: Swim and sunbathe on the island’s beautiful beaches.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local seafood, which is freshly caught by the island’s fishermen.
Insider travel tips: The island can get crowded during peak season, so consider visiting during the off-season for a more peaceful experience.
8. Ayvalik Market
A bustling outdoor market held every Wednesday in Ayvalik, a charming town located on the Aegean coast of Turkey.
What to see or do: The market offers an array of products, ranging from fresh fruits and vegetables, clothing, household items, handcrafted goods, and souvenirs.
Take your time to explore the stalls and discover unique items such as handwoven rugs, olive oil soap, and traditional pottery.
Don’t miss: The market offers a great opportunity to taste local delicacies, such as Turkish delight, homemade pastries, and freshly cooked lamb kebabs.
Don’t forget to try Ayvalik’s famous breakfast dish, menemen, a flavorful combination of eggs, tomatoes, onions, and green peppers.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the market atmosphere at its best. Bargaining is a common practice, so don’t be afraid to haggle for a better price.
Take cash with you, as many vendors may not accept credit cards. Finally, bring a reusable shopping bag to carry your purchases and reduce plastic waste.
9. Saatli Mosque
Saatli Mosque is a historic mosque located in the charming seaside town of Ayvalik in western Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the intricate Ottoman architecture of the mosque, which dates back to the early 19th century. The mosque features a main prayer hall with stunning stained glass windows and a striking dome.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to climb up the mosque’s minaret to enjoy panoramic views of Ayvalik and the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: – Dress modestly to avoid offending worshippers visiting the mosque.
10. Ayvalik Adalari Tabiat Parki
Ayvalik Adalari Tabiat Parki is a nature park located in Ayvalik, Turkey that includes a cluster of small islands in the Aegean Sea.
What to see or do: The park offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the area with its crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and diverse marine and bird life.
Visitors can explore the islands by boat, go swimming, snorkeling, and diving, hike along the shoreline, or simply relax on the beaches.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a boat ride around the islands to see the stunning rock formations and the diverse species of birds that inhabit the area.
The beach at Cunda Island is also a must-visit, with its soft white sand and turquoise waters providing the perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable shoes if you plan on trekking along the shoreline as the terrain can get rocky in some places.
Also, it’s a good idea to pack sunscreen, a hat, and a swimsuit since most visitors prefer to swim in the secluded coves and beaches in the area.
Additionally, if you’re interested in bird-watching, it’s best to visit during the spring or autumn when the migratory birds are most active.
11. Kiz Island
Kiz Island is a small, uninhabited island located off the coast of Ayvalik, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a boat trip to the island and enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters or sunbathing on the small sandy beach.
The island also offers great opportunities for snorkeling and diving, with its diverse marine life and caves.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the surrounding turquoise sea and the secluded atmosphere of the island.
Insider travel tips: Bring your own snacks and drinks as there are no facilities or vendors on the island. Also, be aware of the strong currents in certain areas when swimming.
12. Ayvalik Rahmi Koc Museum
The Ayvalik Rahmi Koc Museum is a private museum located on the Aegean Sea coast in Ayvalik, Turkey. It was established by Rahmi M.
Koc, a Turkish businessman and philanthropist, who dedicated his life to collecting and preserving traditional industrial and technological objects.
What to see or do: The museum showcases an extensive collection of antique cars, motorcycles, boats, planes, and other tools and machinery. Visitors can explore the exhibits and learn about the development of transportation and industry throughout the centuries.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the historic submarine, Nato D-16, which is open for visitors to enter and experience what life was like aboard a submarine.
It is one of the few submarines in the world that is open to the public and a unique experience not to be missed.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in a former tobacco warehouse, which has been beautifully restored and converted into a modern museum.
13. Balykliova Kemankeşlik Museum
The Balykliova Kemankeşlik Museum is a small museum dedicated to the traditional art of kemankeşlik, which is the art of making and playing the kemankeş, a type of Turkish bow fiddle.
What to see or do: Visitors can see various types of kemankeş instruments, including antique ones, and learn about the history and techniques of kemankeşlik. The museum also offers workshops and concerts.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the collection of handcrafted kemankeşes made by the owner of the museum, Hasan Balykliova. They are stunning works of art and demonstrate the skill and craftsmanship involved in making these instruments.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in traditional Turkish music, this is a must-visit museum. Also, don’t be afraid to ask the knowledgeable and friendly staff for more information or demonstrations.
The museum is located in the historic neighborhood of Ayvalik, so make sure to take a stroll around the area before or after your visit.
14. Ayvalık Greek Houses
Ayvalık Greek Houses is a historical district located in Ayvalık, Turkey.
What to see or do: This area features stunning examples of Greek architecture from the 19th century, including many houses that have been beautifully restored. Visitors can take a stroll through the neighborhood and admire the unique style of these buildings.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the Ayvalık Bazaar, which is filled with local handicrafts, food, and souvenirs. You may also want to take a boat tour to the nearby islands for a scenic view of the area.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in learning more about the history and culture of Ayvalık Greek Houses, consider hiring a local guide. They can offer insights and stories that you might not otherwise discover on your own.
And don’t forget to bring your camera, as this is one of the most picturesque areas in all of Turkey.
15. Ataturk Monument Square
Ataturk Monument Square is a public square located at the center of Ayvalik, a coastal town in Turkey.
What to see or do: The square is dominated by a striking monument of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey. Take a moment to appreciate the impressive sculpture, surrounded by well-tended gardens and trees.
Don’t miss: The square is a great starting point to explore the charming town of Ayvalik. It is within walking distance to many local shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Take a stroll along the seaside promenade to enjoy the beautiful views of the Aegean Sea.
Insider travel tips: Visit the square during the weekend to catch the local farmers market, where you can find fresh produce, local handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Make sure to bring a camera to capture the picturesque scenes of the harbor and colorful fishing boats.