Day 1: Arrival and Alaçati
After touching down in Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, we drove the
hour-long route west to Çeşme. Our first stop was the nearby village of
Alaçatı, famous for its whitewashed Greek houses, narrow winding
streets, art galleries, and boutique shops. Wandering through the
peaceful pedestrian lanes gave us a glimpse of traditional Aegean
architecture. We spent the afternoon relaxing in cafes, browsing crafts,
and admiring the panoramic sea views. By evening, we settled into our
hotel in Çeşme's lively marina district, ready to explore more the next
day.
Day 2: Ilıca Beach and Çeşme Castle
After a tasty breakfast, we headed to Ilıca Beach, one of Çeşme's most
scenic strands just a 10 minute drive from town. Golden sands stretched
as far as the eye could see, backed by turquoise waters. We swam,
sunbathed, and strolled the shoreline taking in the tranquil scenery. In
the afternoon, we explored Çeşme Castle situated proudly on a hilltop
with impressive views of the sparkling sea and coastline. The
well-preserved fortress dates back to the 15th century when it was built
by the Ottomans.
Day 3: Eski Badem and Ilica Aquarium
Day three took us south along the coast road to the village of Eski
Badem. We wandered quiet lanes lined with medieval stone houses,
visiting craft and pottery studios. Late morning we stopped for snacks
at a beach cafe overlooking the Aegean. After lunch, we drove to nearby
Dalyana to visit the impressive Ilica Aquarium. Interactive exhibits
introduced us to sea life native to Turkish waters, from colorful fish
and sea turtles to playful otters. The 3D tunnel swim-through tank was a
big hit!
Day 4: Pırlanta Beach and Ayvalık
On our fourth morning, we made the easy 30 minute drive north to the
idyllic Pırlanta Beach. True to its name which means "diamond" in
Turkish, the sand sparkled in the sunlight and the sea was an incredible
turquoise blue shade. We spent a relaxing day swimming and sunbathing
before continuing to the picturesque seaside town of Ayvalık in the
afternoon. Narrow lanes lined with Greek-style neoclassical mansions
wound down to a working fishing port. We sipped tea and sampled locally
made künefe cheese pastry while taking in the charming ambiance.
Day 5: Altınkum Beach and Assos Ruins
Refreshed after some R&R, day five saw us driving northeast to
secluded Altınkum Beach. True to its name meaning "Golden Sand" the fine
powdery sand looked like grains of gold in the sun. Lunch was had at a
beachside restaurant before we explored some of the impressive ruins in
Assos such as an ancient acropolis and theatre overlooking the Aegean.
History buffs will appreciate this well preserved glimpse into classical
antiquity.
Day 6: Şıralı Beach and Atatürk's House
For our sixth day, we headed 10 minutes west of Çeşme to little-visited
Şıralı Beach. Nestled in a scenic cove, the secluded crescent beach
invited swimming and snorkeling in crystal clear waters. After lunch at a
beach cafe, we visited the charming pink villa that once belonged to
modern Turkey's founder Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. The quiet garden looked
out to the sea where Atatürk used to relax.
Day 7: Last Day in Çeşme
Our final morning was spent relaxing at nearby Ilıca Beach one last time
before checking out of our hotel. That afternoon, we squeezed in some
last minute souvenir shopping in Çeşme's marina area and had a delicious
seafood lunch by the water. All too soon it was time for our drive back
to Izmir airport, but we departed with wonderful memories of relaxing
beaches, scenic countryside and historic sites at this picturesque
corner of Turkey's Aegean coast. With 7 beautiful days, we only
experienced a sampling of what Çeşme has to offer —I'll have to plan a
return trip to explore more!
I hope this suggested itinerary provides plenty of inspiration for your own visit to magical Çeşme. Please let me know if you need any other Turkey travel tips or recommendations. Safe travels and have a wonderful trip!
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