This coastal town on Turkey's Aegean coast draws visitors to its 16th-century fortress, thermal springs, and clear waters ideal for windsurfing and kiteboarding.
Çeşme extends into the Aegean Sea at Turkey's westernmost point, 85 kilometers from Izmir. You can windsurf in the shallow waters of Alaçatı Bay, swim at white sand beaches like Ilıca, or relax in 45°C thermal springs. In the nearby village of Alaçatı, 19th-century stone houses now contain wine bars and restaurants, while the 16th-century castle watches over Çeşme's harbor.
Getting to Çeşme
You can reach Çeşme through Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, then travel 85 kilometers west. A six-lane highway connects the two cities, with regular shuttle buses running between them. Ferries connect Çeşme to the Greek island of Chios, and Italian ports including Ancona and Brindisi.
Beaches and Swimming
Ilıca Beach runs along the eastern coast of Çeşme, where underground thermal springs warm the shallow waters. The white sand slopes gradually into the sea, creating safe conditions for children. The southern coast has smaller coves, including Altınkum (Golden Beach) with its distinctive golden sand.
Thermal Springs and Wellness
Natural hot springs emerge throughout Çeşme at temperatures between 45 and 55 degrees Celsius. The waters at Ilıca contain magnesium, calcium, and sodium. You can experience these mineral-rich waters in treatment pools and Turkish baths at several spa centers in town.
Windsurfing Capital
The shallow waters and consistent winds in Alaçatı Bay create excellent windsurfing conditions. Several schools teach beginners and advanced surfers from April through October, with equipment available to rent. Professional windsurfers compete at the annual Surf Festival.
Local Food Scene
Try kumru, a warm sandwich filled with cheese, tomatoes, and spicy sausage. The morning market sells mastic-flavored ice cream and fresh Aegean herbs. Restaurants near the old harbor prepare fresh seafood, particularly grilled sea bass and calamari.
Exploring Alaçatı
Alaçatı, 7 kilometers from central Çeşme, has rows of restored 19th-century stone houses. Local farmers and artisans sell their goods at morning markets in the cobblestone streets. In the Hacımemiş neighborhood, former Greek homes now house art galleries and wine shops.
Çeşme Castle
Built on 14th-century Genoese foundations, the castle was expanded by Ottoman rulers in the 16th century with additional towers and fortifications. You can walk along the ramparts for harbor views and visit the naval museum inside, which displays artifacts from ancient shipwrecks.
Day Trips
Visit the ruins of ancient Erythrai at modern-day Ildırı, 20 kilometers north, with structures dating to 3000 BC. The town of Urla, 30 minutes east, has multiple vineyards where you can taste local wines. A daily ferry takes you to Chios, Greece, where you can explore medieval villages and mastic groves.
