Çeşme, a charming holiday resort known for its healing thermal waters, golden sands, and sunny climate, is located 94 kilometers west of İzmir, at the tip of the peninsula that shares its name. While sailors once referred to it as a small harbor, the name “Çeşme” — meaning “fountain” or “spring” in Turkish — originates from the abundance of natural spring waters found throughout the region. These icy, refreshing waters flowed freely from numerous natural sources, and over time, locals built ornate fountains around them — a tradition deeply rooted in Turkish culture. At one time, it was said that nearly a hundred such fountains adorned the area, each with its own unique architectural style and historical character. Although many of these fountains have disappeared due to natural causes, the drying up of water sources, or urban development, a number have survived intact or through careful restoration, continuing to tell the story of how Çeşme got its name.
Mimoza Bay Beach view in Karaburun.
Çeşme, one of the most popular summer destinations in the Aegean region and a beautiful district of İzmir, boasts a very mild climate suitable for tourism nearly all year round. Famous for its Blue Flag beaches, especially for their white sands, Çeşme also offers a warm climate suitable for swimming until November, along with historical attractions. Bordered by Karaburun to the north, Urla to the east, and surrounded by the Aegean Sea to the west and south, this tourist district is also known for its year-round festivals.
Alacati in Cesme Town
Çeşme, dating back to the 7th century BC, is one of the first ancient settlements. Founded by the Phrygians, it came under Lydian rule in the 6th century BC and later under Persian rule. It was made a part of Turkish territory by Çaka Bey and fell under Ottoman rule in the 14th century.
Climate and Local Cuisine
Çeşme has a typical Mediterranean climate with very hot, dry summers and relatively rainy winters. However, Çeşme has a milder climate compared to surrounding districts, thanks to the constant breezes, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations.
Alacati, well known for its architecture, vineyards and windmills is a popular summer tourist destination.
The cuisine of Çeşme, similar to many Aegean districts, is known for its seafood and olive oil dishes. Favorites include sea fennel, Cretan paste, fava, stuffed zucchini flowers, and şakşuka. Among the fish varieties, bluefish, calamari, and tuna are prominent. İzmir’s famous kumru and boyoz are also at their most delicious in Çeşme.
Traditional Izmir Boyoz, round borek.
Places to Visit
This lovely holiday town offers a wide range of options for visitors, including ancient cities and historical ruins as well as natural beauties and Blue Flag beaches with white sands.
- Çeşme Castle: A symbol of Çeşme, built in 1508 during the reign of Sultan Beyazıt II. Today, it houses the Çeşme Archaeology Museum.
- Altınkum Beach: One of the best places to swim in the Aegean, Altınkum Beach is very close to the city center, only 10 kilometers away.
- Ayayorgi Bay: Recently one of the most popular destinations with its stunning views, clean water, and sandy beaches.
- Ilıca Beach: A Blue Flag beach with a 2-kilometer long sandy stretch, also known for its hot springs in the sea, beneficial for rheumatic diseases.
- Delikli Bay: Located in Çeşme Alaçatı, Delikli Bay, with its white rocks, is an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
- Alaçatı: While Çeşme has been a tourism center for years, Alaçatı has made a significant impact on Turkish tourism in the last decade. Known for its untouched natural streets, stone-walled houses, and colorful flowers on the walls, it’s one of Turkey’s most favored destinations, especially for Instagram photos.
- Donkey Island: Named after the abandoned donkeys cared for by National Parks, the island offers a unique ambiance.
- Erythrai Ancient City: One of the 12 Ionian cities, Erythrai is located 26 kilometers from Çeşme.
- Germiyan Village: Known for Nurdan Erdoğan’s paintings on the walls of its houses, it’s the only village participating in the “slow food” movement, focusing on natural and healthy foods. The village has become increasingly popular recently.
Karaburun / Aquarium Bay
Festivals
The town hosts various events throughout the year, including the Alaçatı Herb Festival, Chess Tournament, International Çeşme Classical Music Festival, and Germiyan Festival.
Çeşme has long and clear beaches along the town
How to Get There
The distance between İzmir and Çeşme is 86 kilometers. You can reach İzmir by air and then access Çeşme by road or rail. Subsequently, you can continue from İzmir to Çeşme by renting a car or using your own vehicle.
An all-inclusive hotel holiday is a must-try
