Best Islands in Turkey: Must-Visit Gems Along the Turkish Coasts
Turkey is a Mediterranean paradise famous for its deep blue waters, historical richness and breathtaking natural beauty. The countless islands along its long coastline each offer their own unique story and experience. For those looking to get away from the crowds, swim in crystal clear waters, explore ancient ruins or simply soak up the sun, the Turkish coast is an island paradise. In this article, we will explore some of Turkey's best islands and take a closer look at what each has to offer visitors. So, what are the best islands of Turkey? How to visit the islands of Turkey? Let's explore together...
1. Bozcaada: The Island of Winds and Wine
Bozcaada is the westernmost island in Turkey, in the north of the Aegean, famous for its winds and exquisite wines. With its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty, it offers a peaceful escape.
History and Culture: Bozcaada's history dates back to ancient times. It has been home to many civilisations, such as the Phoenicians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Genoese, and Ottomans. Bozcaada Castle, the centre of the island, reveals the strategic importance of the island and its defence structure in the past. On the island, where Greek and Turkish culture is blended, it is possible to feel the historical texture while walking through the narrow stone streets.
What to do and What to see?
Wine Tasting: Bozcaada is one of the important wine production centres of Turkey. There are many boutique wine houses on the island. By visiting the vineyards, you can taste delicious wines made from local grapes and learn about the wine-making process. You should especially try the wines made from 'Kuntra' and 'Karalahna' grapes.
Ayazma Beach: One of the most popular beaches on the island. With its clear turquoise waters and fine sand, it is ideal for enjoying the sea. You can rent umbrellas and sun loungers on the beach and take advantage of the food and beverage venues.
Bozcaada Castle: Located in the centre of the island, this imposing castle is one of the most prominent symbols of the island. You can visit the museum inside the castle and learn about the history of the island. Watching the sunset from the castle walls offers an unforgettable experience.
Polente Lighthouse: Located at the western end of the island, Polente Lighthouse is a popular spot to watch the sunset. Built on a windy hill, this lighthouse offers unique views.
Exploring the Streets: Getting lost in the narrow, cobbled streets of central Bozcaada, exploring the colourful houses, local shops, and quaint cafes is a great way to get a sense of the island's spirit.
What the island is famous for: The first thing that comes to mind when it comes to Bozcaada is undoubtedly its wines. In addition, the windy structure of the island provides a favourable environment for sports such as windsurfing. It is a perfect destination for those who want to relax with its calm and peaceful structure.
2. Gökçeada: Turkey's Largest Island and Natural Wonder
Gökçeada is the largest island in Turkey and is known for its natural beauty, quiet villages and clean sea. Gökçeada is ideal for those who are looking for a quiet vacation and want to be in touch with nature.
History and Culture: Gökçeada has been a settlement since ancient times. It is mentioned as 'Imbros' in Homer's Iliad epic. Greek and Turkish populations have lived together on the island for many years, and this is reflected in the cultural structure of the island. Old Greek villages, churches and historical buildings shed light on the island's past.
What to do and What to see?
Kaleköy: It is one of the most well-known and charming villages of the island. Located on a high hill, you can enjoy magnificent sea views from Kaleköy. The village has boutique hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops. You can visit the old Greek houses and churches in Kaleköy.
Zeytinliköy: It is one of the oldest Greek villages on the island. It attracts attention with its calm atmosphere and historical stone houses. You can sit in traditional cafes in the village, try local flavours and drink Greek coffee.
Dereköy: It is one of the largest villages of the island and stands out with its historical texture. You can see the historical fountains and houses in the village.
Kefalos (Aydıncık) Beach: It is one of the most popular beaches of Gökçeada. With its long and wide sandy beach, shallow and clear sea, it is especially suitable for families with children. With its windy structure, it is also ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Hidden Harbour: Located at the western end of the island, this bay has a quieter and hidden atmosphere, as the name suggests. With its lush green nature and turquoise sea, it is perfect for a peaceful day.
Underwater Riches: Gökçeada is also famous for its underwater riches. The coral reefs and wrecks around the island offer attractive spots for diving lovers.
What the island is famous for: Gökçeada is attractive for those looking for a vacation in touch with nature, with its calm and peaceful structure. It also offers ideal conditions for water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. The island's organic agricultural products and local flavours are also very famous. Especially the island's olive oil and goat cheese are worth tasting.
3. Cunda (Alibey) Island: An Aegean Tale
Cunda Island in the Ayvalık district of Balıkesir is known as the pearl of the Aegean. It fascinates its visitors with its historical stone houses, narrow streets, delicious seafood and calm atmosphere.
History and Culture: Cunda Island has been a settlement since ancient times. It was also known as 'Nesos' or 'Moschonisi' in history. During the Ottoman period, the Greek population was dense on the island, and the Turkish population settled after the exchange. For this reason, the traces of Greek and Turkish culture are clearly visible on the island. The historical churches and old stone buildings on the island reflect this cultural blend.
What to do and What to see?
Taksiyarhis Church: It is one of the most well-known buildings of Cunda Island. It has been restored and hosts museums and cultural events. This church, which bears the influences of Gothic and Byzantine architecture, is an important point to understand the history of the island.
Aşıklar Hill (Sevim and Necdet Kent Library): This hill offers one of the most beautiful views of the island. Sevim and Necdet Kent Library, which is located here, was created by restoring a historical church and has a unique atmosphere. It is a great spot to watch the sunset.
Taş Kahve: It is one of the symbols of Cunda. You can breathe in the atmosphere of the island by sitting in this historical café by the sea and drinking tea or coffee.
Seafood Restaurants: Cunda Island is home to restaurants serving the most delicious seafood of the Aegean. Especially papalina fish and fried calamari are the famous flavours of the island. You can have a pleasant dinner with fresh fish and appetisers at the restaurants by the sea.
Ayvalık Bazaar: Strolling through the historical bazaar of Ayvalık, which you can cross by bridge from Cunda, is a pleasant activity to find local products and handicrafts.
Boat Tours: With boat tours departing from Cunda, you can explore the surrounding islands and bays and swim in the clear waters.
What the island is famous for: Cunda Island is especially famous for its seafood and olive oil. It is ideal for those looking for a gastronomic vacation with its calm and romantic atmosphere, historical texture and delicious food. The stone houses and narrow streets of the island are also very attractive for photography.
4. Marmara Island: Marmara's Hidden Paradise
Marmara Island, the largest island of the Marmara Sea, is known for its calmness, natural beauty and historical texture. Marble quarries and olive groves have an important place on the island.
History and Culture: Marmara Island has been famous for marble mining since ancient times. It is known as 'Prokonnesos' in history and has been known for its marbles since the Roman period. The history of the island extends from the ancient period to the Byzantine, Ottoman and Republican periods. Old churches and historical buildings can be seen on the island.
What to do and What to see?
Marble Quarries: Marmara Island is famous for its marble, which also gives it its name. You can learn about the marble production process by visiting the marble quarries on the island.
Çınarlı Village: It is one of the oldest and most charming villages of the island. It has a calm atmosphere with its old stone houses and narrow streets. You can sit in a traditional coffee house in the village and chat with the locals.
Gündoğdu Village: Located in the south of the island, this village is known for its beaches and calm atmosphere. It is ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Abbotsford (Marmara) Beach: One of the most popular beaches on the island. It is a nice option for relaxing with its clean sea and calm environment.
Historical Places: There are some ruins and church ruins from the Roman and Byzantine periods on the island. You can follow these historical traces while visiting the villages of the island.
Nature Walks: Marmara Island is ideal for hiking with its olive groves and natural beauties. You can enjoy the fresh air by walking on natural paths in the interior of the island.
What the Island is Famous for: Marmara Island is famous for its marble and olive oil. It is an ideal destination for those who want to get away from the crowd with its calm and peaceful structure. Local flavours of the island include olive oil dishes and fresh fish.
Source: Küçük Hoteller
5. Avşa Island: Entertainment and Sea Vacation
Another popular island in the Marmara Sea, Avşa Island, attracts attention with its lively nightlife and beautiful beaches, especially in summer. It is an island mostly preferred by young people and families.
History and Culture: The history of Avşa Island dates back to ancient times. Known as 'Afousia' in ancient times, the island was also a settlement during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
What to do and What to see?
Cinarli Beach: It is one of the most popular beaches of the island. With its long and wide sandy beach, shallow and clean sea, it is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. There are many facilities on the beach.
Altinkum Beach: One of the most beautiful beaches of the island. It attracts attention with its fine sandy beach and clear turquoise sea. It is suitable for those looking for a quieter environment.
Yiğitler Village: Close to the centre of the island, this village is known for its calm atmosphere and beaches.
Nightlife: Avşa Island is one of the islands with the most vibrant nightlife in the Marmara Region. There are bars, discos and live music venues.
Sea Activities: There are water sports such as jet skiing and banana boating on the island.
Wine Tasting: Wine is also produced on Avşa Island. You can taste local wines by visiting some wine houses on the island.
What the Island is Famous for: Avşa Island attracts the attention of young people and families looking for an economical vacation with its affordable accommodation options and lively nightlife. It is ideal for a sea vacation with its beaches and sea activities.
Source: Avşa.com
6. Buyukada: The Pearl of Istanbul
Büyükada, the largest of the Prince Islands known for its proximity to Istanbul, stands out with its historical mansions, lush nature and nostalgic atmosphere. It is an ideal destination for those looking for an escape from the bustle of city life.
History and Culture: The history of Büyükada dates back to the Byzantine period. Used as a place of exile, the island was also an important settlement during the Ottoman period. It increased its popularity especially in the 19th century when rich non-Muslim families built summer mansions. Traces of Greek, Armenian, Jewish and Turkish cultures are clearly visible on the island.
What to do and What to see?
Greek Orphanage (Prinkipo Palace): Known as the largest wooden building in the world, this historic building is one of the most remarkable landmarks of the island. Unfortunately, it has been neglected for a long time, but even from the outside, it is mesmerising with its majesty.
Aya Yorgi Church and Monastery: Located on the highest hill of the island, this church and monastery are visited by thousands of people, especially on April 23rd and September 24th. The slope leading up to the monastery is a route that visitors walk b,y making wishes. From here, you can enjoy a unique view of the island and the surrounding islands.
Splendid Palace Hotel: It is one of the symbolic buildings of the island. It attracts attention with its historical texture and architecture.
Resat Nuri Güntekin's House: The house where the famous writer Reşat Nuri Güntekin lived for a while is an interesting point for literature lovers.
Bicycle Rental: Since the use of motorised vehicles is prohibited on the island, exploring the island by renting a bicycle is one of the most enjoyable activities.
Beaches and Bays: There are many beaches and bays on the island. You can swim and sunbathe at options such as Public Beach, Princess Bay, and Nizam Beach.
Phaeton Tours (Electric Vehicles): With the abolition of the phaetons, it is possible to visit the island with electric vehicles. You can discover the beauties of the island by having a nostalgic experience.
What the island is famous for: Büyükada is a popular destination for day getaways due to its proximity to Istanbul. With its historic mansions, lush forests and tranquil atmosphere, it is ideal for those who want to spend a peaceful day. The island has a lively structure that gets crowded especially on weekends.
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