Çeşme, literally 'fountain' in Turkish, is one of Turkey's most chic and renowned seaside resorts, overlooking the enchanting Aegean Sea, across from the Greek island of Chios. Famous for its crystal-clear waters, natural thermal springs, and ideal winds for windsurfing and kitesurfing (especially in nearby Alaçatı), Çeşme combines a rich historic heritage with high-level tourism offerings. The city boasts an imposing Genoese Castle and a lively atmosphere, with a selection of luxury hotels, boutique properties, and exclusive beach resorts that make it a perfect destination for a charm summer vacation.

What our local guides recommend seeing: History, Architecture, and Nature

• Çeşme Castle – Built in the 15th century, the Real Experience is visiting it at sunset for a spectacular panoramic view of the harbor and the Aegean. It also houses the Çeşme Museum.
• Ancient Agora of Erythrai (Ildırı) – A short distance away, the ruins of an ancient Ionian city, for an immersion in history and archaeology.
• Kervansaray (Caravanserai) – A 16th-century Ottoman building, now converted into a hotel, testifying to the city's commercial importance.
• Alaçatı – The nearby village, famous for its stone houses, cobbled alleys, charm boutique hotels, and lively nightlife.

Gastronomy and Aegean Flavors

• Aegean Meze – A variety of small, fresh appetizers based on vegetables, wild herbs, and yogurt, a classic of Aegean cuisine.
• Fresh Fish and Seafood – Given the coastal location, grilled fish is a specialty, often accompanied by local olive oil.
• Kumru – A typical toasted sandwich from Çeşme, filled with cheese, Turkish sausage (sucuk), and tomato.
• Rakı – The traditional Turkish anise-flavored alcoholic beverage, often paired with meze.

Beaches and Experiences (Lidos and Wind)

• Ilıca Beach – Famous for its thermal waters mixing with the sea, creating a naturally warm and curative effect.
• Altinkum Beach – Literally 'golden sand', known for its fine sand and cool, crystal-clear waters.
• Alaçatı (Windsurfing Beach) – Considered one of the best spots in the world for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to the constant wind, an unmissable experience for sports enthusiasts.
• Thermal Baths – Another unique experience is visiting one of the many thermal establishments (like Şifne) for a moment of relaxation and wellness.

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Çeşme
• Official Tourism Website of Turkey

Top 5 Recommended Accommodations by our travel designers

• Reges, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Çeşme – A top-tier luxury option with private sea access.
• Boyalık Beach Hotel & Spa – A large modern hotel with full services and an excellent private beach.
• The Maca Kızı (in nearby Alaçatı) – A legendary boutique hotel and beach club, famous for its chic and exclusive atmosphere (although not in Çeşme city, it's in the area).
• Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Çeşme – Offers an excellent combination of luxury and spa services.
• Altin Yunus Resort & Thermal Hotel – A classic, known for its seawater and thermal pools.

Top 3 Recommended Restaurants

• Ferdi Baba Restaurant (Alaçatı Port) – Known for its wide selection of fresh fish and meze.
• Dalyan Balıkçısı – A fish institution in Çeşme, with a traditional atmosphere and a sea view.
• Zio Beach Restaurant (in Ilıca) – Excellent for a refined lunch or dinner on the beach.