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There are an array of things to do in Turkey, with Bozcaada sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled in the heart of the Aegean Sea like a jewel in a shimmering crown, Bozcaada beckons with its timeless beauty and charm.
From the fragrant vineyards to the winding cobblestone streets, this small Turkish island is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, there are countless things to do and sights to savor on this enchanting isle off the coast of Çanakkale.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Bozcaada:
1. Bozcaada Castle
A medieval castle located on Bozcaada Island, off the western coast of Turkey.
What to see or do: Check out the ruins of the castle, which date back to the Byzantine era. Take a walk along the castle walls and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding sea and countryside.
Inside the castle, explore the remains of the cisterns, chapels, and living quarters.
Don’t miss: The stunning sunset views from the castle walls.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water as there is a fair amount of walking involved. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the midday sun.
There are restaurants and cafes located near the castle so plan to enjoy a meal or drink after your visit.
2. Ayazma Beach
Ayazma Beach is a well-known beach destination located on the picturesque island of Bozcaada, Turkey.
What to see or do: This stunning beach is characterized by crystal clear waters and pristine sandy stretches that are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely walks along the coast.
The area is surrounded by lush green hills, adding to the natural beauty of the place.
Don’t miss: Visitors to Ayazma Beach should not miss the chance to take a dip in its refreshing waters. It’s a great place for some relaxing sunbathing, followed by swimming in the cool waters.
Also, explore the rocky cliffs, hidden coves and beautiful natural surroundings.
Insider travel tips: One insider travel tip for those planning to visit is to bring plenty of sunscreen and water since there are limited facilities available on the beach.
Alternatively, visitors can choose to stay in one of the nearby accommodations that offer additional amenities. The beach can get busy during peak season, so travelers should aim to arrive early to secure a good spot.
3. Polente Lighthouse
Polente Lighthouse is located on the island of Bozcaada in Turkey. It is a beautiful and historic lighthouse that is a popular attraction for visitors.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the island. The lighthouse is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and is a great spot for taking photos.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby Castle of Bozcaada, another historic attraction on the island. The castle offers great views of the island and its surroundings, and visitors can learn about the castle’s fascinating history.
Insider travel tips: – Make sure to wear sturdy shoes when climbing to the top of the lighthouse, as the steps can be steep and slippery.
4. Habbele Beach
Habbele Beach is a stunning sandy beach located on the beautiful Bozcaada island in Turkey.
What to see or do: Enjoy a lovely day at the beach soaking up the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and taking in the stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
Join a snorkeling tour to explore the rich underwater life or enjoy a boat ride with a local fisherman.
Don’t miss: Taking a stroll along the beach during sunset to witness the magnificent colors of the sky and sea.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to the beach during peak season, as it can get crowded. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit the beach during the offseason.
Bring your own umbrella and plenty of water, as there are limited facilities available on the beach.
5. Sulubahçe Beach
Sulubahçe Beach is a hidden gem located at the southern tip of Bozcaada island in Turkey.
This untouched beach boasts crystal clear waters and pristine surroundings, making it one of the most scenic beaches on the island.
What to see or do: Sunbathe on the soft white sand, swim in the calm turquoise waters and enjoy picturesque views of the Aegean Sea. If you’re feeling adventurous, go snorkeling or kayaking to explore the underwater world.
The beach also has a small hut selling refreshments and snacks.
Don’t miss: Take a walk around the beach and admire the stunning landscape.
Be sure to stay until sunset to watch the sun disappear into the horizon while casting a golden glow on the sea.
Insider travel tips: – The beach can get crowded during peak tourist season, so try visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a peaceful experience.
6. Bozcaada Museum
Bozcaada Museum is a small local museum housed in a historic building on the island of Bozcaada in Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibits, which include a collection of ancient artifacts, traditional clothing, and household items from the island’s history.
They can also learn about the island’s culture, customs, and folklore.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is a display dedicated to the island’s viniculture heritage, showcasing the traditional winemaking tools and techniques used in the region.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in the town center and is easily accessible by foot or bike.
7. Eski Rum Mahallesi
Eski Rum Mahallesi, also known as the Old Greek Quarter, is a charming neighborhood located in the center of Bozcaada Island in Turkey.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the narrow streets and admire the well-preserved Greek houses, many of which have been turned into cozy cafes, restaurants, and boutique hotels.
Check out the ornate doors and windows adorned with colorful flowers and charming shutters. Take in the stunning views of the Aegean Sea from the hilltop.
Don’t miss: The Bozcaada Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which is housed inside a restored Greek mansion and showcases a collection of ancient artifacts.
The historic Bozcaada Castle, located just a short walk from the neighborhood.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful walk.
Be sure to grab a traditional Turkish breakfast at one of the cafes, featuring fresh bread, cheese, olives, and other local specialties.
Don’t miss out on a sunset view from the hilltop, it’s one of the most breathtaking sights on the island.
8. KuzuKule Monastery
KuzuKule Monastery is a historic Greek Orthodox monastery located on Bozcaada island in Turkey.
What to see or do: Explore the impressive architecture of the monastery that dates back to the 16th century.
Admire the intricate frescoes and paintings in the church, which are some of the finest examples of Ottoman era religious art.
Take a stroll in the peaceful grounds and enjoy the beautiful views over the island and sea.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of the bell tower for stunning panoramic views of the island and the Aegean Sea.
Also, be sure to take a closer look at the intricate stone carvings and decorations throughout the monastery.
Insider travel tips: Visit the monastery early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. Remember to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting religious sites in Turkey.
Bozcaada island is also famous for its vineyards and delicious wines, so be sure to try some local wines and enjoy a glass with a beautiful view.
9. Çayır Beach
A beautiful and secluded beach located on the Turkish island of Bozcaada.
What to see or do: Relax on the sandy beach and soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Walking along the shoreline and exploring the rugged cliffs that surround the beach.
Insider travel tips: Bring your own food and drinks as there are no facilities or restaurants nearby. Also, be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat as there is little shade on the beach.
10. Poyraz Bay
Poyraz Bay is a picturesque inlet located on the northern coast of Bozcaada, a small island in the Aegean Sea famous for its vineyards, quaint villages, and crystal clear waters.
What to see or do: Poyraz Bay is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the beach. The bay’s sandy and pebbly shores are surrounded by lush green hills, creating a breathtaking natural scenery.
Visitors can also go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore the bay’s rich marine life, including schools of colorful fish, octopuses, and sea turtles.
Don’t miss: Make sure to bring a picnic basket and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the beach.
The bay is also known for its stunning sunsets, so stay until evening to see the sky turn from blue to orange to pink.
Insider travel tips: Poyraz Bay is less crowded than other popular beaches on the island, especially during weekdays. However, it can get pretty busy on weekends, so plan accordingly.
There are no facilities or restaurants in the immediate vicinity, so bring your own food and drinks.
If you’re feeling adventurous, hike up the hills surrounding the bay for spectacular panoramic views of Bozcaada and the Aegean Sea.
11. Greek Church
A beautiful small Greek Orthodox church located on the Turkish island of Bozcaada.
What to see or do: Marvel at the stunning architecture and design of the church, which is adorned with intricate frescoes and mosaics. Take a moment to soak in the peaceful and serene atmosphere inside the church.
Don’t miss: The Iconostasis, a wooden screen that separates the sanctuary from the nave and is covered with beautiful icons. Also, be sure to take a look at the wooden pulpit and the chandelier that hangs from the ceiling.
Insider travel tips: Visitors are advised to dress modestly when entering the church. While entrance is free, donations are appreciated.
Try to visit during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds.
12. Apollon Smintheion Antik Kenti
What to see or do: Explore the ancient ruins of the temple dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of music and poetry. Admire the stunning architecture of the temple, which dates back to the 5th century BC.
Walk around the well-preserved theater, where performances and ceremonies used to be held. Take in the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea from the top of the hill.
Don’t miss: The chance to take amazing Instagram-worthy photos of the ancient ruins and the stunning sea views. Make sure to also visit the small museum on site, which houses artifacts found during the archaeological excavations.
Insider travel tips: Bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves quite a bit of walking. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen as there is limited shade.
Try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds. And, while on the island, take the opportunity to taste the local wines and cuisine.
13. Taşlıca Bay
Taşlıca Bay is a stunning beach located on the northern side of Bozcaada, the third-largest island in Turkey.
What to see or do: The crystal-clear waters and the unspoiled scenery make Taşlıca Bay a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. You can also take a boat trip from the bay to explore nearby coves and hidden beaches.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing sunset at Taşlıca Bay, where the sun sets behind the Greek island of Limnos.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit Taşlıca Bay early in the morning or in the late afternoon. You can bring your own food and drinks to the beach or enjoy delicious seafood at the nearby restaurants.
Remember to bring your snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world of the Aegean Sea.
14. Geyikli-Bozcaada Ferry
What to see or do: Enjoy a scenic boat ride across the Aegean Sea, passing by small islands along the way. Once in Bozcaada, explore the charming town, visit historic sites, and relax on beautiful beaches.
Don’t miss: The Bozcaada Castle, which dates back to the Ottoman Empire, and the nearby vineyards that produce delicious local wines.
Insider travel tips: Book your ferry ticket in advance during peak summer season to avoid long waiting times. Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, and snacks for the journey as amenities on the ferry may be limited.
15. Tuzburnu Beach
Tuzburnu Beach is a quiet and secluded beach located on the northern coast of Bozcaada, a small Turkish island in the Aegean Sea.
What to see or do: At Tuzburnu Beach, you can relax and sunbathe on the soft white sand or swim in the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea.
You can also take a scenic walk along the rugged coastline, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Don’t miss: Be sure to bring a picnic to enjoy on the beach, as there are no restaurants or cafes nearby.
Also, don’t miss the chance to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters and explore the underwater world of colorful fish and fascinating marine life.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, visit Tuzburnu Beach during weekdays rather than on weekends. It’s also a good idea to bring your own shade, as the beach is not equipped with umbrellas or sunbeds.
Finally, be aware that there are no public restrooms or facilities, so plan accordingly.