Balıkesir Hotels

Located in the Aegean Region and Marmara Region, Balıkesir welcomes many tourists with its natural beauties, sea and nature, while the hotels in Balıkesir on our website offer a comfortable and quality service.With its proximity to metropolitan cities such as Istanbul and Bursa and having different holiday resorts within its borders, Balıkesir is a city in the Marmara Region that has developed considerably in recent years. With its close location, it is a preferred destination even for weekend getaways. Balıkesir is a city with a high tourism potential and its economy is largely based on tourism revenues. Balıkesir hotels offer many different types and categories of accommodation facilities. There are many different Balıkesir boutique hotels located in the city center, by the sea and in the surrounding districts. Balıkesir boutique hotels by the sea are generally preferred for the summer vacation season. The ones in the city center of Balıkesir hotels are usually the hotels you can choose for your business trips. However, all Balıkesir hotels offer quality and comfortable service.

When is the Best Time to Visit Balıkesir?

Located between Turkey's Marmara and Aegean regions, Balıkesir is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months. June, July, and August are typically the peak tourist seasons. During this time, temperatures are high, and it's ideal for beach activities. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, spring and autumn are also excellent options. The weather is cooler, and nature offers a more tranquil environment during these seasons. When deciding the best time to visit, consider the weather and your personal preferences.

How to Get to Balıkesir?

You can reach Balıkesir by air, road, rail, and even sea. Being centrally located, the city is well-connected by road. If you're traveling by bus, there are numerous connections to Balıkesir from various cities, with direct routes available to tourist areas during the summer months.

For train travelers, there are rail links to Balıkesir from major cities. Additionally, ferries from Istanbul and Izmir run periodically to Balıkesir.

If flying, the most convenient airports are Körfez and Balıkesir Airports.

Distances by Road:

• Izmir to Balıkesir: 180 km (approximately 2.5 hours)
• Bursa to Balıkesir: 150 km (approximately 2 hours 10 minutes)
• Istanbul to Balıkesir: 385 km (approximately 4 hours 40 minutes)
• Ankara to Balıkesir: 550 km (approximately 6 hours)
• Eskişehir to Balıkesir: 315 km (approximately 3.5 hours)

Must-See Places in Balıkesir

Balıkesir City Center: Explore the city center, visit the Balıkesir Museum, and wander the local markets.
Erdek, Ayvalık, Edremit, Akçay, Altınoluk: These coastal towns are ideal for day trips or longer stays, offering beautiful beaches and relaxing atmospheres.
Ida Mountain: Rich in oxygen, this mountain is home to ancient city ruins like Mysia and the remains of the Antandros Ancient City.
Kaz Dağları National Park: Famous for its clean air, nature walks, and stunning landscapes.
Güre and Derman Thermal Springs: These springs are known for their health benefits and are perfect for a relaxing day.
Ayvalık: Famous for its beaches like Sarımsaklı, its local cuisine, and Cunda Island.

Shopping Suggestions in Balıkesir

Balıkesir Bazaar: Located in the city center, you can find a wide variety of handmade products, souvenirs, and textiles.
Olive Oil and Olives: Balıkesir is renowned for its olive and olive oil production. You can buy fresh, local products here.
Local Delicacies: Balıkesir's cuisine is a blend of both Aegean and Marmara regional flavors. You can purchase jams, honey, cheese, and traditional bread as souvenirs.
Markets: Balıkesir’s open-air and indoor markets offer fresh fruits, vegetables, and textiles at affordable prices.
Handicrafts: Many villages around Balıkesir offer handwoven carpets, ceramics, and textiles with traditional motifs.

Entertainment Recommendations in Balıkesir

Kaz Dağları (Mount Ida): A natural gem offering nature walks, picnic areas, and fresh air for a perfect escape.
Cunda Island: Located in Ayvalık, this island is known for its historical ambiance, narrow streets, stunning sea views, and delicious local cuisine.
Altınoluk Beaches: Located in Balıkesir’s Altınoluk district, these beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Balıkesir’s History

Balıkesir and its surroundings have been home to many civilizations throughout history, including the Lydians, Persians, and Macedonians. During the Roman Empire, the region became a key settlement, with several ancient cities and structures remaining today. Under the Byzantine Empire, the city hosted churches, castles, and other significant structures. Balıkesir became part of the Ottoman Empire in the 14th century and later played an important role during the Turkish War of Independence, being liberated from Greek occupation on September 6, 1922. Today, the city is known for its rich history and stunning natural beauty.

What is Balıkesir Famous For?

Olive and Olive Oil Production: Balıkesir is one of Turkey’s major producers of olives and olive oil. The region’s fertile lands and favorable climate make it ideal for high-quality olives.
Natural Beauty: With its famous natural landmarks like Kaz Dağları, Altınoluk beaches, and Cunda Island, the city offers a stunning variety of landscapes.
Historical and Cultural Richness: Balıkesir is home to many ancient sites, museums, and traditional crafts, enriching its cultural heritage.
Köfte (Meatball): Balıkesir is also known for its delicious meatballs, prepared with a special blend of spices and flavors.

Where to Swim in Balıkesir?

Altınoluk: A popular resort area on the Aegean coast, Altınoluk’s clean beaches and pristine waters make it an excellent choice for swimming and relaxation.
Ayvalık: Known for its beautiful coastline, Ayvalık offers beaches, coves, and nearby islands for a perfect beach holiday.
Cunda Island: Located just off Ayvalık, Cunda Island is famous for its historic sites, lovely beaches, and clear waters.
Akçay: This district of Edremit is home to clean beaches and excellent swimming spots along the Aegean Sea.

Best Things to Do in Balıkesir

Explore the city center, take photos, and shop for local products.
Visit Ayvalık and Cunda for beaches, the famous Ayvalık toast, and a historical tour.
Take a day trip to Kaz Dağları for hiking, cycling, or safari tours. Don’t miss the stunning Sütüven and Hasan Boğuldu Waterfalls.
Explore the thermal springs in Edremit, Güre, and Gönen for a rejuvenating experience.
Enjoy fresh seafood at seaside restaurants and take a boat tour around the islands.

Dining in Balıkesir

Balıkesir’s cuisine reflects both Aegean and Marmara regions. Zeytinyağlı (olive oil dishes) are common, with a variety of vegetable-based dishes, legumes, and salads. The region is known for delicious local foods such as höşmerim (a sweet dessert), Susurluk ayranı (a yogurt-based drink), Ayvalık toast, and grilled fish. The coastal areas also offer fresh seasonal seafood and fish dishes. For those seeking a fast food experience, there are also kebabs, pizzas, and grilled meats.

Balıkesir is a great destination for a mix of history, culture, nature, and gastronomy, making it a place worth visiting for anyone exploring Turkey.