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Best Places to Visit in Gokceada! What to See in Turkey's Biggest Island?

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Ömer Faruk Kino
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With its magnificent beaches, crystal clear sea and peaceful atmosphere, Gokceada is the address of unforgettable vacations. Gokceada, the largest island in Turkey, fascinates its guests with its unique nature, historical texture and rich cultural heritage. One of the most attractive features of Gokceada is its pristine beaches, where you can enjoy the sea and the sun. During your island vacation, you will witness the unique history and culture of 'Imbros' as well as its pristine beaches. So, what are the places to visit in Gokceada? What do you need to know before going on a vacation in Gokceada? 

Here are the places you should definitely see in Gokceada👇

The Most Beautiful Season in Imbros: When to visit Gokceada?

The Most Beautiful Season in Imbros: When to visit Gokceada? Görseli

While Gokceada fascinates its guests with its natural beauties, it also welcomes its guests with a different atmosphere in every season. At this point, considering the climate of the island, we can say that some periods are more ideal than others. Here is some information about when to visit Gokceada:

  • June - September: The summer months are one of the most popular periods for visitors to the island. During this period, sunny and hot weather prevails. The sea waters warm up and the beaches come alive. If you want to enjoy the sea, sunbathe and do sea activities, summer is the ideal time to visit Gokceada. However, be aware that it can be crowded, and accommodations may need to be booked.

  • April - May and October: The island is especially beautiful to visit during the fall months. April and May are the months when the island is decorated with flowers, and nature is just beginning to come to life. Temperatures are milder and tourist areas can be quieter. In October, the sea waters may still be warm and you may have the opportunity to have a vacation away from the crowds. During this period, you can take nature walks and explore historical and cultural sites.

  • November - March: The island can of course also be visited during the winter months. However, the weather will be cooler during this period so beware that the winds of Marmara are famous. Of course, the island is beautiful in all seasons, but keep in mind that ferry services may be canceled from time to time due to weather conditions.

How to get to Gokceada?

You cannot get to Gokceada by land or air. You can access the island by sea bus from Çanakkale harbor or by ferry from Eceabat-Kabatepe Port. Those who want to visit Gokceada by car can also take the car ferry from Kabatepe Port.

How many days would it take you to see everything in Gokceada?

First of all, you should know that Gokceada, famous for its natural beauty, historical texture and calm atmosphere, is a district of Canakkale and Turkey's largest island. Of course, in this case, determining an ideal time to visit Gokceada will be important for planning your visit. So, how many days can you spend in Gokceada?

If you want to fully explore Gokceada and are ready to experience the unique beauties of the island to the fullest, you should allocate at least 3 to 4 days. Let's create a Gokceada vacation route for you: 

  • You can spend your first day in İskele, the center of the island. You can visit the historical buildings in İskele and enjoy the local delicacies in the surrounding restaurants and cafes. You can also visit the Gokceada City Museum by checking the visiting hours. 

  • You can spend your second day exploring the natural beauties of the island. You can visit natural spots such as Marmaros Waterfall, Salt Lake, Peynir Rocks and take plenty of walks. You can also visit the beaches of Gokceada and enjoy the sea. You can choose Kefalos Beach, Yıldız Bay or Hidden Harbor for swimming. 

  • You can spend your third day at the historical and cultural sites of the island. You can explore historical points such as Dereköy Historical Greek Laundry, Yeni Bademli Mound and Gokceada Rock Tomb.

  • On your fourth and last day, you can explore the other villages of the island. You can visit settlements such as Kaleköy, Zeytinliköy, Uğurlu village and experience the village atmosphere. Don't forget to explore the local markets and organic products.

What to eat in Gokceada?

Get ready for a unique combination of Aegean and Marmara Cuisine in Gokceada. The island has a rich gastronomic culture, especially offering the flavors of Aegean cuisine. It is also famous for its local products and fresh seafood. Here are some local delicacies you should try in Gokceada:

  • Gokceada Octopus: Here, the octopus is usually served grilled or cooked in a stew. Depending on your preference, it is flavored with garlic sauce or olive oil and can be served as a salad or appetizer.

  • Stuffed Zucchini Blossom: An appetizer prepared using the island's natural products. Zucchini flowers are stuffed with the filling and cooked in olive oil. Stuffed with mint, dill, onion and spices, it is a very attractive option both visually and in terms of flavor.

  • Artichokes in Olive Oil: Fresh artichokes are cooked with olive oil, lemon juice, onion and spices. Artichokes in olive oil are both healthy and delicious.

  • Fresh Seafood: You can taste various seafood such as fresh fish, squid, sea bass, sea bream in fish restaurants or local restaurants in coastal cities. These delicacies are usually grilled or steamed.

  • Cheese Varieties: Gokceada is also famous for its cheese varieties. The island produces special cheeses made from sheep and goat milk. You can taste various cheeses such as curd cheese, unsalted feta cheese and cheddar cheese and discover the rich cheese culture of the island. You can consume the cheeses naturally at breakfast, in salads or flavored with olive oil.

In Gokceada, you can also eat goat kapama, goat tandoori and lamb chops, which are among the popular flavors of Çanakkale.

Places to see in Gokceada

Gokceada is Turkey's largest island and a destination of natural beauty, tranquil atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. Located in the Aegean Sea, there are many points to explore and many activities to do.

  • The island mesmerizes visitors with its pristine beaches, crystal clear sea and spectacular natural landscapes. Beaches such as Kuzu Harbor, Kefalos Beach, Yıldız Bay and Hidden Harbor are ideal spots to experience the beauty of the island. It is also possible to do water sports on the island. 

  • Gokceadası also stands out with its historical and cultural richness. You can visit the historical buildings in villages such as Kaleköy, Dereköy and Zeytinliköy and see the ruins of the ancient period. Dereköy Historical Greek Laundry, Yeni Bademli Mound and Gokceada Rock Tomb will help you discover the rich history of the island.

  • The cuisine of Gokceadası is also very delicious. Carrying the traces of Aegean cuisine, the island is famous for fresh seafood, olive oil dishes, herbs and local cheeses. 

  • Among the activities that can be done on the island, there are options such as nature walks, cycling tours, diving, canoeing and sea tours.

1. Gokceada Rock Tomb

The rock tombs in the south of Gokceada look extremely interesting, as if they were randomly thrown from the sky. Moreover, there are no inscriptions about the rock tombs and no other remains nearby. Therefore, it is not known exactly to which period or to whom the remains belong. However, experts predict that the tombs may have been built during the Roman Period due to their shape and structure. 

Address: Çınarlı, 17760 Eşelek, Gökçeada/Çanakkale

Working hours: Open 24 hours a day, and entrance is free of charge.

Traveler Reviews

“It's on the way to Kapıkaya beach. It's not much, but the view is nice.”

2. Derekoy Historical Rum Washhouse

Dereköy Historical Rum Washhouse sheds light on the history of the island and carries unique traces of Greek culture. This laundry, which fascinates its visitors with its unique architecture and historical atmosphere, is an important part of the island's cultural heritage. Located in Dereköy, about 14 km from the center of Gokceada, the historical Greek laundry is next to the Pania Church. 

It is said that the laundry and the church were built at the same time. The laundry was built in the 19th century and used by the Greek people. The building reflects the typical characteristics of Greek laundries. It has an architecture combining stone and wood materials and draws attention with its decorative details reflecting the traditional Greek style. In the interior, laundry equipment from the period and photographs from the old period are exhibited.

Address: 17760 Derekoy, Gokceada/Çanakkale

Entrance is free of charge

Traveler Reviews

“You shouldn't expect much from an old laundry. They used to boil hot water on the stoves with fire and wash the clothes by stepping on the bowl with their feet. Then they used to dry it by hitting it with a stick on the bowl. Old Greek youth used to marry the girls they liked by looking out of the window. There are many stone houses but they are all ruins...”

3. Yeni Bademli Höyük

Yeni Bademli Höyük, one of the main stops of Gokceada for history and archaeology lovers, draws attention as an important archaeological site that sheds light on the rich past of the island. Offering a fascinating experience to its visitors with its historical ruins and cultural heritage, the mound is one of the most visited places on the island. 

The history of Yeni Bademli Höyük dates back to 3 thousand BC. Discovered in the 60s, this archaeological site has so far yielded remains from the Late Chalcolithic and Early Bronze Age. Excavations inside the mound have unearthed houses, temples, tombs and various ceramic artifacts from the sedentary periods.

The mound is located in the south of the island, near Zeytinliköy. And it is approximately 4 kilometers from the center of the island. 

When visiting the mound in Yeni Bademli, remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable clothes and appropriate shoes. 

Address: 17760 Yenibademli, Gokceada/Çanakkale

Entrance is free of charge

4. Gokceada City Museum

The island where green and blue meet is also a cultural heritage. Gokceada City Museum, located in the center of the island, is the perfect place for those who want to feel the texture of history. 

Gokceada City Museum exhibits many historical artifacts that shed light on the island's past. Archaeological finds, ethnographic objects and photo collections show visitors the rich cultural heritage of the island. 

The City Museum, the first and only museum of Gokceada, was converted from a bathhouse built in 1973 and opened to visitors in 2017 thanks to the efforts of Gokceada Municipality. 

Address: Fatih, 17760 Gökçeada/Çanakkale

Visiting Hours: 09.00 - 19.00

Closed on Saturday and Sunday

Traveler Reviews

“If you come to the island and want to sit and enjoy yourself in a cozy and historical place, the right address is the museum cafe... The prices are affordable. The staff are from the island. Open air cinema is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays. You can sit on colorful wooden chairs and enjoy the movie under the trees.  If that's not enough, if you want to understand how the people of this island live, the city museum is for you”

5. Laz Bay

Laz Bay, located in the southwest of Gokceada, is one of the most beautiful bays of the island with its natural beauty and calm atmosphere. With its unique view, clear waters and natural texture, Laz Bay offers a peaceful experience to its visitors.

To reach Laz Bay, you have to travel approximately 10 kilometers from the center of Gokceada via Derekoy village road. When you reach the beach surrounded by natural cliffs and pine trees, the blue of the sea will mesmerize you. 

Address: Fatih, 17760 Derekoy, Gokceada/Çanakkale

Entrance is free of charge

Traveler Reviews

“It's a great place. The sea is very clean and the temperature is good. It gets deeper after a few meters. Good for adults. It is nice to watch the fish at the bottom. There is one establishment. You can spend hours taking your umbrella and chair to the beach. I can say that some of the sand is fine sand, but it is also worth noting that the sand gets thicker towards the sea. Park your car on the roadside above during peak times. There are not many parking spaces for the car.”