Balikesir

Balikesir is a province in northwestern Turkey, located between the Sea of Marmara and the Aegean Sea. It offers a mix of coastline, agriculture, thermal spas, and small-town charm — without the heavy tourist crowds of nearby coastal hotspots.

What it’s known for:

🏖️ Coastal Resorts:

• Ayvalik: The most popular coastal town in the province, known for its Greek-Ottoman architecture, olive oil, and Cunda Island (Alibey Adası). Great for seafood, sunsets, and boutique hotels.

• Cunda Island: Connected to Ayvalık by causeway, full of charming stone houses, tavern-style restaurants, and old churches.

• Altinoluk & Akcay: Seaside towns near Mount Ida (Kaz Dagi), quieter alternatives to big-name resorts — good for clean beaches and cool mountain breezes.

🏞️ Mount Ida (Kaz Dagi):

• Legendary as the setting for parts of Homer’s Iliad.

• Today, it’s a national park rich in oxygen, hiking trails, and natural springs. Also a center for eco-tourism and traditional olive farming.

💧 Thermal Spas:

• Balıkesir is known for healing waters and has several hot springs, especially in Gonen, Edremit, and Havran — popular for wellness tourism.

🫒 Olive Oil and Agriculture:

• A major producer of high-quality olive oil, cheese, tomatoes, and dairy products. Local markets are full of fresh, authentic food.

🕌 Historical Sites:

• Zagnos Pasa Mosque and old Ottoman houses in the city center of Balıkesir.

• Antandros: An ancient city near Edremit with ongoing excavations, linked to Trojan legends.

The vibe:

Relaxed, rural in parts, coastal in others — Balikesir is a blend of Aegean calm, Marmara practicality, and agricultural pride. It’s more low-key than tourist-heavy regions but rich in local life.

Best time to visit:

May–October for beaches and nature; fall for olive harvest season and fewer crowds.