Balıkesir is one of Turkey’s largest but least-celebrated provinces — a stretch of northwest Turkey that includes some of the Aegean coast’s most characterful towns, the tranquil Gulf of Erdek on the Marmara side, and some of the finest olive oil in Turkey.
Ayvalık on the Aegean is the standout destination — a town with a distinctive character shaped by its Greek population and an urban fabric of narrow cobbled streets and stone mansions that survived the 20th century remarkably intact.
- Region
- Northwest Turkey
- Coasts
- Aegean & Marmara
- Best months
- May–Sep
- Known for
- Ayvalık, olive oil, sea
Ayvalık and Cunda Island
Ayvalıkis one of Turkey’s most rewarding historic towns — a labyrinth of 19th-century Greek stone houses, olive oil mills, backstreet churches and some of the best seafood restaurants on the Aegean coast. The town faces the island of Lesbos across the water.
Cunda Island (Alibey Adası) is connected to Ayvalık by causeway and bridge — its waterfront is lined with fish restaurants set in old Greek houses. The island produces exceptional olive oil and has a preserved Orthodox church.
Erdek and the Gulf of Marmara
The Kapıdağ Peninsula juts into the Marmara Sea with the resort town of Erdek at its entrance. The gulf shelters calm, clear water and small islands — a relaxed alternative to the crowded Aegean resorts further south.
Gönen — thermal spa town
Gönen has been famous for its thermal baths since Roman times. The inland spa town is popular with Turkish visitors seeking mineral water cures and hammam culture — a quiet retreat away from the coast.
Balıkesir in pictures
Frequently asked questions
Balıkesir
2Yes — Ayvalık is one of Turkey's most characterful towns, with preserved Greek-era architecture, outstanding olive oil, excellent seafood and the nearby island of Cunda.
Ayvalık olive oil, the preserved Greek quarter of Ayvalık, Cunda Island, Erdek on the Marmara coast, and Gönen thermal baths.