Where is Çeşme? How to Get There?

Çeşme, the pearl of the Aegean, is located on the coast to the west of İzmir. Known for its natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and lively atmosphere, it is one of Turkey’s most popular holiday destinations. Situated approximately 85 km from İzmir city center, getting to Çeşme is quite easy.

• By Car: You can reach Çeşme from İzmir in about 1 hour and 15 minutes via the İzmir-Çeşme Highway.

• Public Transportation: There are direct bus services from İzmir Bus Terminal to Çeşme. During the summer months, minibuses and dolmuş (shared taxis) operate frequently.

• By Sea: There is a ferry connection from Çeşme to the Greek island of Chios (Sakız Island) across the sea.

Places to Visit in Çeşme: History, Nature, and Sea Together

1. Çeşme Castle and Historical Sites

• Built by the Ottomans in 1508, Çeşme Castle houses a small museum inside.

• You can enjoy panoramic views of the Çeşme Bay from the castle.

• The bazaars, souvenir shops, and cafés around the castle offer a pleasant walking experience.

2. Ilıca Beach

• Famous for its fine sand and shallow waters, making it ideal especially for families with children.

• Preferred for health tourism due to its thermal waters.

• There are numerous cafés, restaurants, and accommodation facilities around the beach.

3. Alaçatı

• Alaçatı is the most popular neighborhood of Çeşme. With its stone houses, narrow streets, and vibrant bougainvillea-covered atmosphere, it is one of the most photogenic places in the Aegean.

• It is internationally known as a windsurfing center.

• The area is lively 24/7 with boutique hotels, cafés, art galleries, handmade product shops, and restaurants.

4. Ayayorgi Bay

• About 6 km from the center of Çeşme, it is a peaceful bay that has preserved its natural state.

• Perfect for swimming and picnicking.

• Ideal for nature walks with many hiking routes.

5. Altınkum Beach

• A favorite among holidaymakers due to its clear and clean water.

• Very close to Çeşme town center, making it suitable for day visitors.

6. Delikli Bay and View of Chios Island

• Famous for its natural rock formations.

• Offers unique photo opportunities for photography enthusiasts.

7. Şifne Bay

• Ideal for those seeking a quieter and more natural setting.

• Features a small beach and boutique facilities.

Activities and Entertainment in Çeşme

Windsurfing and Water Sports

• Alaçatı Windsurfing Center is one of Turkey’s most important spots for windsurfing.

• Offers international level services for sailing, kiteboarding, surfing, and other sports.

• Courses and equipment rentals are available.

Boat and Yacht Tours

• Daily yacht tours depart from Çeşme to explore the nearby bays.

• Day trips to Chios Island by boat are also popular.

Thermal and Wellness Experience

• Thermal hotels, hot springs, and spa centers in the Ilıca area offer relaxation and health tourism opportunities.

• The mineral-rich thermal waters are known to be beneficial for rheumatism and skin diseases.

Nightlife and Entertainment Venues

• Especially during the summer season, many bars, nightclubs, and beach clubs operate in Çeşme and Alaçatı.

• Live music events and DJ performances continue throughout the summer.

• Popular venues include Kule Rock City, My Moon, Nemo Bar, among others.

Nature Walks and Cycling Routes

• There are many trails for nature walks around Alaçatı and its surroundings.

• Renting bicycles to explore the Aegean nature is also possible.

Çeşme Cuisine: What to Eat? The Most Delicious Flavors

Seafood

• Fresh fried whiting, calamari, stuffed mussels, sea bream, and sea bass are must-tries in Çeşme.

• Coastal restaurants and fish taverns offer rich menus focused on seafood.

Organic Aegean Herbs and Olive Oil Dishes

• Alaçatı herbs, olive oil artichokes, zucchini flower dolma, and other light and healthy Aegean dishes.

• Traditional recipes using local herbs make Alaçatı’s cuisine unique.

Çeşme Kumru (Sandwich)

• A sandwich type unique to the Aegean region with plenty of fillings and special bread.

• Made with pastirma (cured beef), sausage, cheese, and tomatoes.

Local Cheese and Olive Varieties

• Çeşme’s unique farm cheeses, tulum cheese, and goat cheese decorate the tables.

• Mezes made with Aegean olive oil and varieties are indispensable.

Desserts and Traditional Flavors

• Mastic-flavored ice cream: made using the resin from the mastic tree.

• You can also try almond cookies, pumpkin dessert, Aegean-style revani, and baked rice pudding.

Accommodation Options in Çeşme

• Luxury Hotels: Hotels located right by the sea, with spas and private beaches.

• Boutique Hotels: Charming boutique hotels with characteristic architecture in Alaçatı and Çeşme.

• Apartments and Holiday Villas: Ideal for large families and long-term holidaymakers.

• Camping Areas: Sites offering a nature-integrated camping experience.

Notable Festivals and Cultural Events in Çeşme

Alaçatı Herb Festival

• Held every April.

• Features local herbs, natural products, foods, and handicrafts.

• Live music and entertainment programs add color to the festival.

Çeşme International Music Festival

• Concerts and events featuring various music genres during the summer.

• Local and international artists perform on stage.

Windsurfing Competitions

• Alaçatı hosts international windsurfing competitions.

• Exciting moments for sports enthusiasts and visitors.

Suggested Itinerary for Çeşme