Are you looking for towns on Turkey's Aegean and Mediterranean coasts that offer a tranquil life in touch with nature? In this list, we have compiled special towns, from Izmir to Mugla, Çanakkale to Aydın, that stand out for their stunning sea views, rich history, and peaceful atmosphere. Far from the crowds, these secluded corners, which will inspire your retirement plans with their natural beauty, fresh air, and unique landscapes, are also among the most livable coastal towns in Turkey. If you are thinking, 'Where should I live in retirement?' And 'Where are the best coastal towns in Turkey?' This list is for you!
Top Seaside Villages in Turkey’s Aegean Region for Retirement Dreams
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1. Izmir – Eski Foça
Izmir, with all its districts and coastal towns, is awe-inspiring; however, some places make you say, “This is it!” Eski Foça is at the top of the list. With its Blue Flag-certified Karakum and Karaburun Beaches, as well as Çanak Beach, and historical sites such as the Siren Rocks, the Temple of Athena, the Open-Air Temple of Cybele, the Archaic Wall, the Herodotus Wall, and the Persian Monumental Tomb, Old Foça feels like a retirement dream come true.
2. Izmir – Dikili, Bademli
Another town adorning the dreams of Izmir is Bademli. This charming location, part of Dikili, is only two hours away from the city, boasting olive trees, bays, beaches, and historical attractions. If you seek a quiet place to escape the crowds, Bademli is the spot for you.
Source: Ege Telgraf
3. Izmir – Seferihisar, Sığacık
One of the first places that comes to mind when thinking of peace and quiet in Izmir is Sığacık. With its colourful markets, mud-brick houses, cobblestone streets, and flower-adorned bay windows, it offers the perfect retirement dream.
Source: Rotamhikaye
4. Muğla – Datça
Famous for its honey, almonds, and fish, Datça is situated where the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas converge. It attracts attention with the ancient city of Knidos, Gelidonya Lighthouse, historic windmills, and the Path of Love. You can also relish the sea to the fullest at its unique bays and beaches.
5. Muğla – Milas, Güllük
Güllük has become a favourite destination for vacationers seeking to escape the crowds, as well as those who say, “I want to grow old here.” This town, part of Milas, captivates with its architecture that allows you to see the sea from anywhere.
6. Çanakkale – Ayvacık, Küçükkuyu
Small in name but grand in size, Küçükkuyu dazzles with the Kaz Mountains on one side and the Aegean Sea on the other. All you can do is enjoy such natural beauty.
Source: Küçükkuyu
7. Çanakkale – Ayvacık, Babakale
Babakale, another rare town in Ayvacık, is so peaceful that it will make you believe that even the sun rises more beautifully here. We hope this village, which still retains its natural charm, remains this way forever. As the sun sets, this place, where peace seems to envelop the earth, adorns your dreams.
Source: Geziloji
8. İzmir – Karaburun, Mordoğan
Home to more than 70 varieties of daffodils and hosting a festival dedicated to this flower, Mordoğan is renowned for its tranquillity, clean air, and winding roads. Though not as well-known as Çeşme, it is one of İzmir's most special destinations for those yearning for peace and quiet.
9. İzmir – Urla, Çeşmealtı
Abundant oxygen, low humidity, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets… This ancient port town, part of Urla, traces its history back to 4000 BC. For those seeking a serene life away from the crowds, Çeşmealtı is the perfect fit.
Source: Hopi
10. İzmir – Ödemiş, Birgi
If you long to feel as though you're living among the enchanting mansions of the past, Birgi is the ideal location. This historic town, which has never lost its natural charm, is a must-visit destination for retirement plans.
Source: neredekal
11. Muğla – Bodrum, Mazıköy
Do you wish to live in Bodrum while avoiding the throngs? The answer to your desire is Mazı. This delightful coastal town, home to pristine coves, offers the tranquillity you seek.
Source: Türker Yeşin
12. Muğla – Ula, Akyaka
This special place, which adorns my retirement dreams, has captivated not only me but everyone who has fallen in love with the region. Although it is no longer as quiet as it once was, Akyaka remains one of those places waiting to be discovered; it will enchant you with its pine scents, sea, and nature.
Source: HALUK COMERTEL
13. Aydın – Kuşadası, Güzelçamlı
Though part of Kuşadası, Güzelçamlı has largely preserved its natural beauty and boasts magnificent beaches and crystal-clear waters. It is also a fantastic spot for those wishing to enjoy water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, diving, and canoeing, as well as bird watching.
14. İzmir – Çeşme, Ildır
Known as Ildır or “Red Town,” this village is a favourite location for Aegean TV series. However, even before that, Ildır's tranquillity and scenery are sufficient reasons to settle here.
15. Balıkesir – Edremit, Akçay
Akçay feels almost like a retirement town. Why? Because outside of the summer crowds, a large portion of the resident population consists of retirees. With its natural beauty, climate, and peaceful atmosphere, it's easy to understand why they chose this place.
Source: Neredekal
16. Muğla – Datça, Mesudiye
To be honest, Mesudiye might have been omitted from this list, but like everyone who has experienced it, I changed my mind. Despite being crowded in the summer due to its proximity to popular spots like Hayıtbükü, Palamutbükü, and Ovabükü, this modern village, where you ponder, “Where should I have my coffee?” while admiring the view outside of the season, truly deserves its place on the list.
Source: Tripadvisor