Top Things to Do & See in Çeşme: Beaches, Nightlife, and More

Ömer Faruk Kino
Content Editor
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Çeşme, the pearl of the Aegean, attracts both local and foreign tourists every year with its deep blue sea, windy beaches, historical texture and delicious cuisine. Located on the Aegean coast west of Izmir, this charming town is an ideal destination for both a peaceful holiday and an adventure-filled vacation. Çeşme welcomes visitors not only during the summer months but throughout the year with its natural beauty, thermal springs, and historical sites. The stone houses of Alaçatı, the warm waters of Ilıca Beach, and the historical atmosphere of Çeşme Castle combine to offer an unforgettable Aegean experience. 

So, what to do in Çeşme? And what to see in Çeşme? Let's explore together!

Why Should You Visit Çeşme?

Çeşme is a holiday resort located on the Aegean coast of Turkey, west of Izmir, famous for both its natural beauty and historical sites. With its turquoise sea, windy beaches, and thermal springs, Çeşme offers visitors a relaxing and exploratory experience with its stone houses in Alaçatı, Çeşme Castle, and colourful markets. Its cuisine also stands out for its local delicacies such as olive oil, seafood, and kumru. Çeşme, which offers different beauties both in summer and in spring and autumn, is one of the indispensable destinations of the Aegean.

When to Visit Çeşme?

Çeşme is a destination that can be visited all year round thanks to its Mediterranean climate; however, the ideal time to visit is between May and October. During this period, air temperatures range between 25-35°C, while sea temperatures range between 22-28°C, providing perfect conditions for swimming and enjoying the sea. Especially in July and August, the sea temperature and sunshine take the holiday experience to the peak. Spring months are ideal for those seeking a quieter and more peaceful holiday; it is possible to take walks away from the crowds in the streets of Alaçatı and Çeşme. In autumn, windy days are perfect for windsurfing enthusiasts, and the natural landscape becomes enchanting with autumn colours.

How to Get to Çeşme?

Getting to Çeşme is quite easy and offers various options:

  • By Private Vehicle: The road trip from Istanbul to Çeşme takes approximately 5-6 hours. Thanks to the motorway connections, the journey is comfortable and fast. You can also see the rural villages of the Aegean and make small discoveries with stops along the way. As you travel towards Çeşme via Izmir, the magnificent sea views and natural beauty make the journey even more enjoyable.

  • By bus: There are regular bus services from the Izmir Bus Terminal to Çeşme. The journey takes an average of 1.5 hours and is a comfortable and economical option. The frequency of services increases during the summer season, so it is advisable to book tickets in advance.

  • By plane: Direct flights to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport are available from all over Turkey. From the airport, you can transfer to Çeşme by bus or car rental. The airport is approximately 80 km from Çeşme, and the journey takes 1-1.5 hours.

Where to Stay in Çeşme?

Çeşme offers accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. There is a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to boutique hotels, apartments to campsites. Accommodation preferences may vary depending on your holiday preferences; spacious facilities for families, romantic boutique hotels for couples, and beach club hotels for young people stand out. Some notable accommodation options include:

  • Swissotel Resort & Spa Çeşme: This luxury hotel, located by the sea, offers spa facilities and modern design to make your holiday comfortable.

  • Altın Yunus Hotel & Spa: Known for its spacious areas and family-friendly activities, it is an ideal choice for families with children.

  • Biblos Resort Alaçatı: Located near the centre of Alaçatı, it offers easy access to the centre on foot and attracts attention with its stylish, modern rooms.

  • Kervansaray Thermal Resort: With its historical atmosphere, thermal water facilities and rich spa services, it offers both relaxation and a health experience throughout your holiday.

What to Eat in Çeşme?

Çeşme cuisine is famous for its fresh seafood and olive oil dishes. In addition, the region's unique flavours will make your holiday experience unforgettable:

  • Kumru: Famous for its special bread and various ingredients, especially sucuk, salami and cheese options.

  • Çeşme Ice Cream: A thick and delicious ice cream made with a mixture of yoghurt and milk.

  • Olive Oil Artichoke: One of the staples of Aegean cuisine, prepared by combining fresh artichokes with olive oil.

  • Seafood: Fresh fish and squid varieties served with meze are a must-have for a seaside holiday.

The dining experience in Çeşme is not limited to just the taste; the views, gardens, and seaside ambience of the restaurants also offer an unforgettable experience.

The Best Restaurants in Çeşme

To discover Çeşme's rich cuisine, you need to visit the best restaurants:

  • Enginarre: A restaurant specialising in olive oil dishes and seafood, offering quality service.

  • Fava Alaçatı: Located in the centre of Alaçatı, it offers traditional Turkish cuisine with a modern twist.

  • ÇARK Balık Çeşme: Famous for its fresh seafood and appetisers, it offers a pleasant dining experience by the sea.

  • Horasan Balık: In addition to its fish and appetisers, it is one of the most popular places for its friendly atmosphere.

Çeşme's Most Beautiful Beaches

Çeşme is famous for its beautiful beaches, each with its own unique characteristics:

  • Ilıca Beach: With its hot springs and wide sandy beach, it is an ideal choice for both families and couples.

  • Altınkum Beach: With its fine sand, clear water and spacious area, it attracts a lot of attention in summer.

  • Delikli Bay: With its white rocks and deep blue sea, it is a must-see for photography and nature enthusiasts.

  • Aya Yorgi Bay: One of Çeşme's most popular bays, it stands out for its tranquillity and natural beauty.

Beach clubs are also very popular, offering ideal venues for those seeking a full day of sea, sun, and quality service.

Places You Must See in Çeşme

Çeşme attracts attention not only with its natural beauty but also with its historical and cultural riches:

  • Çeşme Castle: Dating back to the reign of Bayezid II, this castle enchants visitors with its panoramic view.

  • Erythrai Ancient City: With its Ionian-era ruins and historical atmosphere, it offers a unique experience for history enthusiasts.

  • Alaçatı Streets: Famous for its stone houses, colourful streets, and boutique shops, Alaçatı is perfect for photography and strolling.

  • Germiyan Village: Ideal for those who want to experience traditional Aegean village life, it stands out for its natural products and warm atmosphere.

What to Buy in Çeşme?

Çeşme also offers souvenirs and local products to complete your holiday:

Olive Oil: The high-quality olive oils of the Aegean are ideal for both your kitchen and as gifts.

Lavender Products: Soaps, oils and decorative products made from the lavender fields of Alaçatı are very popular.

Ceramic Items: Handmade ceramics reflect traditional Aegean art and are preferred as decorative gifts.

Kumru Bread: This delicacy, which has become a symbol of Çeşme, can be purchased fresh and given as a gift to your loved ones.

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