This charming town is located on the Aegean coast and is known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and delicious seafood.
Cunda Island, also known as Alibey Island, is a small island located in the Aegean Sea, off the coast of Turkey. It is part of the Ayvalik district in the Balikesir Province. The island has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to ancient times. It was once an important center for olive oil production and trade, and the island's old stone houses and narrow streets reflect its traditional architecture and culture Today, Cunda Island is a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports on the island's beaches, or explore its historic sites and cultural landmarks. The island is also known for its local cuisine, which features fresh seafood and traditional dishes made with olive oil.
To reach Cunda Island, visitors can take a ferry from the town of Ayvalik, which is connected to major cities in Turkiye by bus and ferry.
Taksiyarhis Church is a historic Greek Orthodox church located in the town of Ayvalik, in the Balikesir Province of Turkiye. The church was built in the 19th century, during the Ottoman era, and was named after the patron saint of sailors, Saint Nicholas. The church is known for its impressive architecture, which combines Byzantine and Ottoman styles. Its exterior features intricate stone carvings and a large dome, while its interior is adorned with frescoes and murals depicting scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints. After the exchange of populations between Greece and Turkiye in 1923, the church was used as a mosque for several years before being abandoned. In the 1990s, it was restored and converted into a cultural center, hosting exhibitions, concerts, and other events.
Today, the Taksiyarhis Church is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world who come to admire its beautiful architecture and learn about its rich history. It is also an important symbol of the multicultural heritage of Ayvalik, which was once a thriving center of Greek culture and commerce.
Sarimsakli Beach is a popular tourist destination located in the town of Ayvalik, in the Balikesir Province of Turkiye. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, fine white sand, and stunning natural scenery. The beach stretches for over 7 kilometers along the coast and is surrounded by pine forests and olive groves, providing visitors with a peaceful and relaxing environment. The water is shallow and calm, making it an ideal place for swimming and other water activities such as snorkeling and windsurfing. There are also a variety of facilities available for visitors, including sun loungers, umbrellas, and beach cafes serving food and drinks. The beach is particularly popular with families, as there are plenty of activities available for children, including water slides and playgrounds. Sarımsaklı Beach is easily accessible by public transportation, with regular buses running from the nearby town of Ayvalik. It is also possible to drive to the beach, and there are ample parking facilities available. Overall, Sarımsaklı Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the Balikesir Province and looking to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
Badavut Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach located in the Balıkesir Province of Turkiye. It is situated on the Aegean coast, near the town of Ayvalik, and is known for its pristine natural beauty, clear waters, and peaceful atmosphere. The beach is surrounded by pine forests and olive groves and has a long stretch of white sand that slopes gently into the water. The sea is calm and ideal for swimming, and there are also opportunities for snorkeling, windsurfing, and other water activities. Badavut Beach is not as developed as some of the other beaches in the area, which gives it a more secluded and tranquil feel. There are limited facilities available, with just a few small cafes and shops selling snacks and drinks.
To reach Badavut Beach, visitors can take a bus or drive from the nearby town of Ayvalik. The beach is located about 10 kilometers from the town, and there is a small parking area available. It is also possible to walk or cycle to the beach from Ayvalik, along a scenic coastal road.
Overall, Badavut Beach is a hidden gem in the Balikesir Province, offering visitors a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of the Aegean coast.
Seytan Sofrasi, also known as Devil's Table, is a popular tourist attraction in Balikesir, Turkiye. It is a rock formation located on top of a mountain in the Kaz Mountains National Park, about 40 km south of the city center. Legend has it that the devil used to sit and dine on this rock formation, which is why it is called Seytan Sofrasi in Turkish. Today, it is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
To get to Devil's Table, you can take a bus or drive to the Kaz Mountains National Park and then hike to the top of the mountain. The hike takes about 1-2 hours and is moderately difficult. Once you reach the top, you can relax and take in the breathtaking views while enjoying a picnic or some tea at the small cafe located there.
Overall, Seytan Sofrasi is a unique and beautiful destination to visit in Balikesir, especially for those who enjoy hiking and nature.
This park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including oak and chestnut trees, bears, and wolves.
Kyzikos, also known as Cyzicus, is an ancient city located in the southeastern part of the Marmara Sea in Balikesir, Turkiye. It was once a prosperous city and one of the most important centers of commerce in the region. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of this ancient city and learn about its rich history and culture.
Some of the highlights of Kyzikos include:
The Ancient City Walls: The city was surrounded by impressive walls, some of which are still standing today. Visitors can walk along the walls and see the remains of the gates and towers.
The Acropolis: The Acropolis was the highest point of the city and is now home to the ruins of several temples and public buildings. Visitors can see the remains of the Temple of Hadrian, the theater, and the agora.
The Roman Bridge: The Roman Bridge is located just outside the city and is a popular spot for taking photos. The bridge spans the river that runs through the valley and is an impressive example of ancient engineering.
The Archaeological Museum: The Kyzikos Archaeological Museum is located in the city center and features a collection of artifacts discovered in and around the ancient city. The museum has exhibits on the city's history, art, and culture.
Overall, Kyzikos is a fascinating destination for history buffs and those interested in ancient civilizations. Visitors can learn about the city's rich history and see the impressive ruins of this once-great city.
This canyon is located in the Kaz Mountains and is a popular spot for hiking and camping. The canyon is home to beautiful waterfalls and stunning views.
The Kapidag Peninsula is a beautiful and rugged peninsula located in the southern part of Balikesir, Turkiye. It is a popular destination for those seeking adventure, hiking, and natural beauty. The Kapıdağ Peninsula has a rich history and is home to several historical sites, including the ancient city of Dascylium and the Ayvalik Islands, which were once a Greek settlement.
The Edremit Gulf is a beautiful stretch of coastline located in the western part of Balikesir. It is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Balikesir is a province in Turkiye that has a rich culinary heritage, with a variety of traditional dishes that reflect the region's history and culture. Here are some of the traditional foods that you might want to try when visiting Balikesir:
Keskek is a traditional dish made from wheat and meat (usually lamb or beef) that is cooked in a large pot for hours until it becomes a porridge-like consistency. It is usually served with melted butter and chili flakes.
Incir uyutmasi is a dessert made from dried figs that are soaked in water and then mixed with ground walnuts and sugar. The mixture is then baked in the oven and served with cream.
Kaz helvası is a dessert made from the breast of a goose, sugar, and flour. The breast of the goose is cooked until it becomes tender, and then it is mixed with sugar and flour and cooked again until it becomes a sweet and sticky dessert.
Also, Sulu Köfte, Lokma, and Zerde are the traditional food of Balıkesir. These are just a few of the traditional dishes that you can find in Balikesir. Make sure to try some of these dishes when you visit the region to get a taste of the local cuisine.
The distance between Balikesir and Goynuk is approximately 260 kilometers (162 miles) by road. The travel time between the two cities depends on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions. There are also bus services available between Balikesir and Goynuk, with a journey time of around 5 to 6 hours, depending on the route and number of stops. It is recommended to check the bus schedules in advance and book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel periods.
Bursa is a larger and bustling city known for its historical landmarks, rich cultural heritage, and modern industries. Some of the top attractions in Bursa include the Green Mosque, the Bursa Castle, the Grand Mosque, and the Bursa City Museum. The city is also known for its traditional Turkish baths, thermal springs, and local cuisine, including the famous Iskender kebab.
The distance between Bursa and Balikesir is approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles) by road. The travel time between the two cities depends on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions. By car or taxi, the journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. There are also regular bus services between the two cities, with a journey time of around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the route and number of stops. There is no direct train connection between Bursa and Balikesir, so the train is not a convenient option. However, it is possible to take a train from Bursa to Bandirma, which is a city located near Balikesir, and then take a bus or taxi to Balıkesir from Bandirma.
Balıkesir offers several opportunities for extreme sports enthusiasts. Here are some of the popular extreme sports activities you can enjoy in Balıkesir:
Balikesir's Kaz Mountains provide a perfect setting for paragliding. You can soar above the mountain range and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The Kaz Mountains and the Kapidag Peninsula offer a great opportunity for rock climbing. There are several climbing routes available for beginners and experienced climbers.
Balikesir has several rivers and streams that offer great opportunities for rafting. The Kocacay River, in particular, is a popular destination for rafting enthusiasts.
Balikesir has several hiking trails that wind through the Kaz Mountains and the Kapidag Peninsula. These trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and are a great way to explore the region's natural beauty.
Balikesir has several mountain biking trails that offer a great way to explore the region's natural beauty. The Kapıdag Peninsula is particularly popular among mountain bikers, with its rugged terrain and stunning coastal views. a. Hiking and Nature Trails: The Kapidag Peninsula is home to several hiking and nature trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Aegean Sea. The most popular trails include the Kapidag Trail and the Hizirsah Trail.
The peninsula has several beautiful beaches, including the Caltı Beach and the Ayvalik Adalari Beach. These beaches offer crystal-clear waters, golden sand, and a serene atmosphere.
Plus, with GetYourGuide, you can make the most of your Balikesir adventure by booking exciting tours and local experiences guided by experts.
