Cesme is located on Turkey's western coast overlooking the Aegean Sea. Less than one hour's drive from Turkey's 3rd largest city of Izmir, Cesme is the ideal location for a combined beach and sightseeing holiday with its crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, fantastic climate and nearby historical gems
The region of Cesme has a typical Mediterranean climate. The summer season begins in April and continues until the end of October with hot sunny days. Unlike other Turkish resorts, the region of Cesme benefits from the cooling breeze which blows off the Aegean Sea and is renowned for its clean, cool air, offering welcome relief from the heat of the sun even during the hottest months of July and August.
Cesme means fountain in Turkish, and comes from the many springs that were built in the area during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Cesme has a long history which is evident from the Genoese Castle situated in the centre of town that dates from the 14th century. Next to the castle is the Caravanserai Cesme is located on Turkey's western coast overlooking the Aegean Sea. Less than one hour's drive from Turkey's 3rd largest city of Izmir, Cesme is the ideal location for a combined beach and sightseeing holiday with its crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, fantastic climate and nearby historical gems
The region of Cesme has a typical Mediterranean climate. The summer season begins in April and continues until the end of October with hot sunny days. Unlike other Turkish resorts, the region of Cesme benefits from the cooling breeze which blows off the Aegean Sea and is renowned for its clean, cool air, offering welcome relief from the heat of the sun even during the hottest months of July and August.
Cesme means fountain in Turkish, and comes from the many springs that were built in the area during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Cesme has a long history which is evident from the Genoese Castle situated in the centre of town that dates from the 14th century. Next to the castle is the Caravanserai added in the 16th Century.
The Castle now houses an exhibition centre, restaurant and bar, whilst the Caravanserai is a hotel and restaurant where you can have a meal or drink whilst soaking up the ambience of the castle and its surroundings.
During the high summer season the main shopping area is pedestrianised, allowing you to wander freely between the shops, restaurants and bars.
In the town centre you can find a good selection of carpets, leather goods and souvenirs, which if you decide to buy you can practice your haggling skills. If you feel adventurous, you can explore the maze of side streets to examine Cesme's historic architecture, and witness the daily activities of the local Turkish people.
When dusk falls, Cesme becomes the place to be seen with its 'cafe culture', as both tourists and locals take a leisurely stroll with their family and friends to enjoy the cool evening air.
Ilica is famous for its white sandy beach and turquoise blue waters, which are comparable to the Caribbean, only much closer to home!
Ilica is a popular tourist location due to the hot thermal waters that effervesce under the sea. The sea in this area is both safe and shallow, and ideal for families.
Along the beach are a selection of restaurants, cafes and bars.
Alacati, popular for windsurfing and sailing is a typical Aegean town. You can experience the Turkey of years gone by with its natural harbour, cobblestone streets and historic windmills dotting the hillside. Saturday, the day of the local market is a good day to visit Alacati, when you can witness an array of locally produced goods on offer at incredibly low prices. Smell and taste the deliciously fresh fruit and vegetables and buy the latest fake 'designer' clothes. Or if you just like to take it easy, have a relaxing drink in the town square and watch the world go by.
Dalyan is a small fishing village 4km north of Cesme, and has some of the region's best fish restaurants which border the quay of the lively marina. If you love seafood, you should try to have dinner at one of Dalyan's restaurants at least one night during your stay
Cruise the Aegean Sea
On Cesme's waterfront, you are able to book daily boat trips to the nearby islands. The most popular day trip is to 'Donkey Island' which includes stops for refreshing swimming breaks and a meal at lunch time. You can also charter your own boat, which if you are in a large group can be comparable in price to an organised tour from the sea front. Chartering a boat (usually a Turkish Wooden sailing boat called a Gulet) will allow you to cruise the Aegean at your own pace and make you feel really special as you cruise around the coastline on your private gulet.
The Greek island of Chios, is easily reached from Cesme. You can take a day trip by ferry to explore this unique island to visit places of interest such as Chios town, or you can escape to the various picturesque villages and beaches.
Ciftlikkoy also known as Ciftlik, is a typical Aegean fishing village and is a natural wonder with its beautiful sandy beach and crystal clear waters. In the village you can visit the harbour to buy freshly caught fish, or sit and have a drink at the local restaurants, from which you can watch the local fishermen at work or look out to sea, across to the Greek island of Chios
Ildiri, once the site of ancient Erythrai, is today a quiet seaside village 20 km, north east of Cesme. Those who climb up to the Acropolis at dusk are rewarded with beautiful views as the sun sinks over the bay and islands.
Izmir, is a cosmopolitan and lively city, hosting several International Arts and Music Festivals throughout the year. Known in Turkey as 'Beautiful Izmir', the port of Izmir, offers a Mediterranean feel with its palm-lined promenades stretching the shoreline. A day trip to Izmir is ideal if you wish to shop or visit the local museums.
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