An Aegean Dream: Cesme and Alacati Travel Guide

Yellow windmills, streets smelling of mastic, warm-hearted people of the Aegean, and endless Kumru sandwiches…

When asked, "What makes Çeşme and Alaçatı so appealing?" these are the first things that come to mind, but actually, there are countless reasons to visit these charming duo... While it's not easy to talk about all of them, we've gathered our favorite places, beaches we love swimming at, and flavors you must try for you. Everything you're looking for about Çeşme and Alaçatı is in this article! If you're thinking of heading to the Aegean shores this summer, don't forget to listen to our recommendations before you hit the road!

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 Why Visit Çeşme and Alaçatı? 

Ask anyone about Çeşme and Alaçatı, and they'll describe its unique beauty. The only complaints might be the recent increase in crowds and noise levels. However, a solution was found last year for the noise, with the introduction of the 75-decibel campaign. Now, you won't hear very loud noises on the streets of Çeşme and Alaçatı after a certain hour. As for the crowds, there's no remedy for that! It would be unfair if Çeşme and Alaçatı weren't crowded given their beauty. "So, why should I visit Çeşme and Alaçatı?" There's certainly an answer for everyone! Despite the crowds, the streets of Çeşme and Alaçatı are beautiful! Its beaches are ideal for swimming and for windsurfing. There are delicious flavors unique to the Aegean cuisine in its colorful venues! Plus, the local people are very friendly and hospitable. There's more, but pages wouldn't be enough. Let's not delay any further and take you to the shores of Çeşme and Alaçatı this summer. 

Don't Leave Çeşme and Alaçatı Without Doing These! 

There's no limit to what you can do in both Çeşme and Alaçatı! No matter how long you stay, there are plenty of activities waiting for you on these shores. However, we've gathered must-dos in Çeşme and Alaçatı for those who can't stay for weeks:

  • -If you can time your visit right, don't miss the Alaçatı Herb Festival! Usually held at the end of March and beginning of April, stalls stretch along Alaçatı streets. You can find everything from local herb dishes to jams, mastic products to olive oil at the stalls. There are also various workshops and events. You can join this excitement and get to know the regional spirit of Alaçatı… Coffee tasting, dancing, and yoga are among the activities waiting for you at the festival…
  • -You can start the day with a local breakfast in Alaçatı. In the evening, you can settle in one of the fish restaurants in Çeşme Marina and enjoy both the view and fresh seafood. When night falls, you can return to Alaçatı and enjoy yourself in the colorful concept bars. Don't be intimidated by what we've said. Because the distance between Çeşme and Alaçatı is only 15 minutes!
  • -How about surfing? There are many centers in Alaçatı's windy shores where you can surf. It doesn't matter whether you are an expert in windsurfing or a beginner. Surf centers offer both equipment rental and lessons for beginners. You could dedicate a day to windsurfing and experience thrilling moments!
  • -Do you like antiques? If "yes," we have a suggestion for you. In Alaçatı's Hacımemiş neighborhood, there are many antique shops where you can find the piece you're looking for. Even if you don't buy anything, you can stroll through these shops that reflect the spirit of the past.
  • -If you are holidaying in Çeşme, it would be unfair not to visit Çeşme Castle and Museum! The museum exhibits ethnographic artifacts from Çeşme and its surroundings. At the entrance of the museum, there is an art gallery where exhibitions are held at certain times of the year. If you're curious about the history of Çeşme, you can see very special artifacts and enjoy the magnificent view from Çeşme castle. Or, if it coincides with your holiday period, you can visit the exhibitions of important figures in Turkish art. 
  • Dining Recommendations in Çeşme and Alaçatı 
  • If you're a food lover, a holiday in Çeşme and Alaçatı will make you incredibly happy! Both Çeşme and Alaçatı offer countless places where you can taste the finest flavors of Aegean cuisine. You can start your day at tables that aren't complete without sour cheese with herbs, tulum cheese, and soft pişi (Turkish fried dough). For breakfasts that will win your heart with both their taste and freshness, you have many options. However, we definitely recommend visiting Demlik Cafe on Çamlık Road in Alaçatı. You're sure to love the famous börek by the café's owner, Ayşegül Hanım, which has gained recognition beyond Alaçatı, as well as the charming atmosphere of the café. After breakfast, you'll be soaking up the Aegean sea at the beaches, but soon your stomach will be rumbling again! This is the perfect time to try Çeşme's famous kumru sandwich. For kumru, both Kumrucu Şevket and Erol are highly successful options. You'll come across kumru often in both Çeşme and Alaçatı, giving you a chance to try it at different places.
  • For dinner, you have many options awaiting you. But you should prioritize Çeşme's herb dishes and olive oil flavors. For example, you must try the grape leaves sarma, Şevket-i bostan herb dish, and herb gözleme. Asma Yaprağı Restaurant is the best place to try these. The garden of the restaurant in Hacımemiş neighborhood is also wonderful! For those who love fish and can't get enough of appetizers, there are many seafood restaurants in both Alaçatı and Çeşme. However, our recommendation would be to try Kaptan's Place in Alaçatı and Ferdi Baba Restaurant in Çeşme. Don't forget, mastic ice cream and mastic cookies are also must-tries in Çeşme and Alaçatı. At Rumeli Pastanesi, Istanbul Pastanesi, and İmren Cafe, you can find the freshest ice cream and cookies, just a heads up!
  • Places to Visit in Çeşme and Alaçatı
  • -During your holiday in Çeşme and Alaçatı, there are many places you should visit. You can start with the always lively Çeşme Marina. You can enjoy pleasant walks at the marina and enjoy coffee against the view.
  • -You must have heard of Aya Yorgi Cove and its beach. If you're looking for a fun day, you can choose the beaches here. Many of Çeşme's famous beaches are located here. You can try a different one each day and join the extraordinary beach parties.
  • -If you have enough time, you should also add Ilıca to your Çeşme and Alaçatı holiday. It hosts one of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Especially if you're someone who loves to feel the sand under your feet while entering the sea, you definitely should visit.
  • -You must visit the windmills at Alaçatı square, which have become a symbol of the holiday resort. Both the view is beautiful, and the tea at the tea garden under the windmills is great!
  • -If your holiday includes a Saturday, you must visit the local market set up in Alaçatı. You won't believe the variety of products at the stalls of the market, where the scent of fresh fruit spreads around. In addition to fresh fruits and vegetables, herbs and flowers specific to the Aegean are some of the things you can buy from the market... But that's not all. There are also clothing and accessory options that won't fall short of store selections waiting for you... Therefore, if you plan to go to the market, don't forget to bring a large cloth bag with you!
  • If you're wondering where to stay in Çeşme and Alaçatı, take a look at our recommendations on our site! https://www.boutiquesmallhotels.com/cesme-hotels