Balikesir Guide

Balikesir, Turkey: A Hidden Gem Between the Aegean & Marmara Seas

Location: Northwest Turkey, between Canakkale and Bursa
Famous for: Stunning beaches, olive oil, nature, and history
Best for: Beach lovers, nature explorers, and foodies

Top Attractions in Balikesir
1️⃣ Ayvalik & Cunda Island 
✔️ A charming seaside town with stunning Aegean beaches
✔️ Famous for olive oil, seafood, and boutique shops
✔️ Cunda Island (Alibey Island) offers traditional Greek-Ottoman architecture and picturesque streets

2️⃣ Yildirim Mosque 
✔️ Built in the 14th century, Balikesir’s oldest mosque
✔️ Inspired the architecture of later Ottoman mosques

3️⃣ Degirmen Bogazi (Mill Canyon) 
✔️ A natural park located 10 km from Balikesir city center
✔️ Perfect for hiking, camping, and nature walks
✔️ Waterfalls, pine forests, and picnic areas

4️⃣ Gonen Thermal Springs 
✔️ Known for healing mineral waters and spa retreats
✔️ A great spot to relax and rejuvenate

5️⃣ Seytan Sofrasi (Devil’s Banquet) 
✔️ Panoramic sunset views over the Aegean Sea
✔️ A famous legendary spot with footprint-shaped rock formations
✔️ Near Taskoyasi Church, a historical site

6️⃣ Bird Paradise National Park (Manyas Kus Cenneti) 
✔️ Protected wetland sanctuary for over 230 species of birds
✔️ Ideal for birdwatching and nature lovers

7️⃣ Kaz Daglari (Mount Ida) 
✔️ Famous from Homer’s Iliad, rich in mythology and history
✔️ A perfect location for hiking, trekking, and eco-tourism

8️⃣ Bandirma 
✔️ A coastal city with gorgeous beaches
✔️ Known for fresh seafood and ferry connections to Istanbul

🍽️ Balikesir’s Must-Try Foods
✔️ Ayvalik Toast – A delicious grilled sandwich filled with cheese, sausage, and sauces
✔️ Balikesir Hosmerim – A famous cheese-based dessert
✔️ Olive Oil Dishes – The region is known for world-class olive oil
✔️ Gonen Rice – A local specialty used in traditional dishes
✔️ Keskek – A hearty, slow-cooked dish with wheat and meat

How to Get to Balikesir?
✈️ By Air:

Balikesir Airport (BZI) – Limited flights from Istanbul & Ankara
Closest Major Airport: Istanbul (IST/SAW) (3-4 hours drive)

🚆 By Train:

Direct trains from Ankara & Istanbul

🚗 By Car:

From Istanbul: ~3.5 hours (~250 km)
From Bursa: ~2 hours (~150 km)
From İzmir: ~2.5 hours (~180 km)

Why Visit Balikesir?
✔️ A mix of history, nature, and beaches 
✔️ Famous olive oil, seafood, and traditional Turkish cuisine 
✔️ Unique blend of Aegean & Marmara cultures 
✔️ Relaxing thermal spas and wellness retreats 
✔️ Less crowded than other coastal cities, perfect for a peaceful holiday