Ayvalik Sightseeing Route

What You Need to Learn About Ayvalık

Ayvalık is a district located in the Western Anatolia region of Turkey and located on the Aegean Sea coast. It depends on the province of Balikesir. Ayvalık is known for its natural beauties, historical texture and rich cuisine. It is especially famous for its olive groves and seafood. The history of Ayvalık dates back to ancient times.

The city is known as an important Greek settlement during the Ottoman Empire. Greek architecture can be observed especially in the historical region in the center of Ayvalık. However, with the departure of the Greek population after the exchange that took place in 1923, the buildings in this region fell into the hands of the Turkish population.

Ayvalık's coastline is very important in terms of tourism. Cunda Island (Alibey Island) and Ayvalık Islands are among the most popular tourist spots in the region.Dec. In addition, the sea of Ayvalık is clean and clear, which makes it preferable for beach holidays Jul. In addition, Ayvalık is also famous for its olive oil production.

The city and the surrounding olive groves are one of the places where the highest quality olive oils of the country are produced. Therefore, dishes made with olive oil and products related to olive oil are very popular in Ayvalık.

Places to Visit in Ayvalık

There are many places to visit in Ayvalık. Here are some places I definitely recommend you to see in Ayvalık:

• Cunda Island (Alibey Island): Cunda Island, one of the most famous points of Ayvalık, attracts attention with its historical texture, narrow streets and Greek architecture. Aya Yorgi Church, Taksiarhis Church and Greek houses located on the island are definitely worth a visit.
• Jul Sarımsaklı Beach: Famous for its clean sea and golden sands, Jul Sarımsaklı Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Ayvalık. Here you can go to the sea, sunbathe and take advantage of the activities on the beach.

• Satanic Table: Offering one of the magnificent views of Ayvalık, Satanic Table is located on a high hill. It is an ideal spot to watch the sunset.
• Ayvalık Center and Bazaar: It is pleasant to walk around the historical center of Ayvalık and see the old stone houses. You can shop in the bazaar, you can buy local products.
• Ayvalık Islands Boat Tour: You can visit Ayvalık Islands with boat tours departing from Ayvalık Harbor. These tours usually offer a pleasant stroll accompanied by a sea view.
• Taksiyarhis Memorial Museum: This museum, located on Cunda Island, exhibits the history and culture of the region. Here you can see historical monuments and works of art.
• Devil's Feast: Famous for its unique views, this place is a great option for breakfast or dinner.
• Badavut Beach: Jul 13 km away from Ayvalık, this beach offers a calm environment with its clean sea and natural beauties.

Ayvalık Transportation Status

Road Transport

Ayvalık is located in Western Anatolia and is easily accessible by land. You can reach Ayvalik from Istanbul with a journey of about 6-7 hours. Ayvalık is about 150 km from Izmir and about 100 km from Balıkesir. From Istanbul, you can reach Bandırma by using the Aegean Highway (O-3), then Ayvalık by continuing in the direction of Balıkesir-Ayvalık after Bandırma.

Air Transportation

The nearest airport to Ayvalık is Balıkesir Edremit Koca Seyit Airport. There are domestic flights to this airport from Istanbul and other major Turkish cities. You can reach Ayvalık from the airport by car rental or taxi service.

Sea Transportation

Since Ayvalık is located on the Aegean Sea coast, sea transportation is also possible. You can reach Ayvalık especially by ferry services from Lesbos Island and Crete Island. Ayvalık Port is the starting point of these voyages.

Ayvalık Car Rental

After arriving in Ayvalık, there is a car rental option to get around the city. There are many international and local car rental companies at the airport or in the city center. Besides, arabakirala.com.tr you can also rent a car by making a reservation in advance through the website. It will be easier to explore the beauties of Ayvalık with the car you have rented. However, it is important to make your reservation in advance as there may be a lot of intensity in the summer months.

What to Eat in Ayvalık?

• Ayvalık is an Aegean town famous for its rich seafood. In addition to delicious and fresh seafood dishes, you can also find local Aegean cuisine here.
• Ayvalık is a region of the Aegean known for its olive oil. Olive oil dishes such as stuffed meat, olive oil leaf wrapping, artichokes are very popular here.
• Since Ayvalık is located on the sea coast, you can find fresh and various fish varieties. Fish such as sea bass, sea bream, sardines are one of the indispensable of Ayvalık cuisine. In fish restaurants, you can enjoy fish cooked in the oven or on the grill.
• Stuffed mussels made in Ayvalık are a delicious choice for seafood lovers. Dolmas are usually filled with rice, onions, peanuts, currants and spices and served with lemon.
• Mushroom sauté made with fresh mushrooms grown in and around Ayvalık is also a must-taste delicacy.
• Ayvalık toast is a type of toast made with roasted peppers and tomatoes, with lots of cheese and fried in oil. You can find this delicious toast on the streets or in cafes in Ayvalı Dec.