Located in the southwestern part of the Aegean Region, Balıkesir is a destination that attracts millions of tourists every year with its magnificent nature, history, and culture. Stretching under the shadow of the mighty Kazdağları (Mount Ida), this city is home to many beauties waiting to be discovered, from its deep blue sea to its lush green forests, and from its ancient cities to its charming towns.
Encountering Nature
- Kazdağları Milli Parkı (Kazdağları National Park): You can visit Kazdağları Milli Parkı to discover the breathtaking beauty of Kazdağları. In the park, you can hike in the oxygen-rich air, camp, swim in the cool waters of the waterfalls, and enjoy the unique scenery.
- Sarımsaklı Plajı (Sarımsaklı Beach): Sarımsaklı Plajı, with its golden sand and turquoise sea, is one of the most popular beaches in Balıkesir. You can sunbathe, swim, do water sports, and enjoy the beach on the beach.
- Aşıklar Tepesi (Lovers’ Hill): Aşıklar Tepesi, located in Ayvalık, is famous for its magnificent sunset view. You can watch the panoramic view of Ayvalık from the hill, have a romantic dinner, and create unforgettable memories.
A Journey Through History
- Antandros Antik Kenti (Antandros Ancient City): Antandros Antik Kenti, located on the Edremit Gulf, is a port city founded in the 10th century BC. The city has many historical structures, including an ancient theater, agora, baths, and temples.
- Kyzikos Antik Kenti (Kyzikos Ancient City): Kyzikos Antik Kenti, located in Erdek, is an ancient city founded in the 7th century BC. The city has many important historical structures, such as the Temple of Apollo, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Altar of Zeus.
- Karesi Beyliği Müzesi (Karesi Principality Museum): Karesi Beyliği Müzesi, located in the city center of Balıkesir, is a museum where artifacts related to the history and culture of the Karesi Principality are exhibited. The museum houses a coin collection, ceramic works, manuscripts, and ethnographic works.
Delicious Stops
- Ayvalık tostu: Ayvalık tostu, a unique flavor specific to Ayvalık, is a delicious treat that you can enjoy for breakfast or as a snack.
- Kazdağları balı (Kazdağları honey): Kazdağları honey, produced from the endemic plants of Kazdağları, is known for its unique aroma and healing properties.
- Edremit körfezi zeytinyağı (Edremit Gulf olive oil): Edremit körfezi zeytinyağı is one of the most delicious and highest quality olive oils in Turkey.
Balıkesir: A Tapestry of 20 Districts
Balıkesir, a city located in the northwestern Marmara Region of Türkiye, is a vibrant mosaic of 20 distinct districts. Each district boasts its own unique historical, cultural, and natural beauty, making Balıkesir a captivating destination to explore.
A Journey from the Center
- Altıeylül and Karesi: The heart of Balıkesir, these two central districts showcase the city’s modern and lively face. With shopping malls, historical landmarks, parks, and gardens, they offer an atmosphere that appeals to all tastes.
The Azure Breeze of the Aegean
- Ayvalık: Renowned for its historical Greek houses, delicious seafood, and olive oil, Ayvalık is an ideal destination to soak up the Aegean’s azure waters.
- Burhaniye: Nestled at the foot of Mount Kazdağları, Burhaniye mesmerizes with its pristine beaches, olive groves, and historical mosques.
- Erdek: A pearl of the Marmara Sea, Erdek promises a delightful vacation with its thermal springs, historical sites, and lush green nature.
Embraced by Nature
- Dursunbey: Located at the foot of Mount Kazdağları, Dursunbey is a paradise for nature lovers with its forests, plateaus, and clean air.
- Edremit: Settled at the foothills of Mount Kazdağları, Edremit captivates with its olive trees, waterfalls, and historical landmarks.
- Gönen: The center of thermal tourism, Gönen welcomes thousands of visitors every year with its healing waters and historical baths.
- Kepsut: Situated at the foot of Mount Kazdağları, Kepsut offers a perfect getaway for those seeking a nature-filled vacation with its forests, plateaus, and historical sites.
- Savaştepe: Nestled at the foot of Mount Kazdağları, Savaştepe enchants nature enthusiasts with its forests, plateaus, and historical sites.
Following the Footsteps of History
- Bandırma: A significant city in the Turkish War of Independence, Bandırma evokes feelings of patriotism with its historical landmarks, museums, and monuments.
- Marmara: Located on Marmara Island, Marmara offers a delightful vacation experience with its historical sites, beaches, and natural beauty.
Delightful Culinary Stops
- Balya: Known for its mining history, Balya attracts gourmets with its delicious agricultural products and honey.
- Havran: An agricultural district, Havran captivates food lovers with its famous cherries and vineyards.
- Manyas: Famous for the Manyas Bird Paradise, Manyas also stands out with its agricultural products and delicious fish.
- Sındırgı: Renowned for its Yağcıbedir carpets, Sındırgı awaits visitors with its handicrafts and local delicacies.
- Susurluk: Known throughout Türkiye for its Susurluk ayran (yogurt drink) and toast, Susurluk is a popular destination for food lovers.
Each district of Balıkesir is a treasure waiting to be discovered. With its historical and natural beauty, local delicacies, and hospitable people, Balıkesir is an ideal destination for an unforgettable vacation.