Aegean Coastal Treasures Route

Çeşme

The Çeşme district is a very popular summer holiday resort, especially among residents of nearby İzmir, and includes historic sites such as a 16th-century castle and an old caravanserai. The white sandy beaches stretch lazily along a road lined with elegantly built houses, several large hotels, and a number of restaurants serving excellent seafood and Turkish specialties. In Çeşme, it is possible to enjoy both a beach holiday and a full spa treatment, as the area offers a wide range of hotel accommodation options, with some hotels featuring their own spas that take advantage of the natural mineral waters. Ilıca, with its eponymous white sandy beach, is the most famous of these spas, containing high levels of sodium chloride, magnesium sulfate, and calcium bicarbonate. The Ilıca spas also offer underwater massage, electrotherapy, and other types of therapy, as well as hot mineral pools and baths.

Seferihisar

One of the first "cittaslow" cities in Türkiye, Seferihisar is a perfect blend of nature and city life. Located within walking distance of the well-preserved ancient city of Teos and the still-living medieval port-castle of Sığacık, Seferihisar offers a variety of activities in a historical setting.

Selçuk

If you are in İzmir, a visit to Ephesus in Selçuk is a must. Located 75 km from İzmir, Ephesus is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Türkiye. The first finds in Ephesus date back to the 8th millennium; however, the city founded on the slopes of Ayasuluk Hill was established around the 10th century and flourished as a trading center. This vibrant city, which once rivaled Rome as the largest city in the world, was home to over 250,000 people. The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was located in today’s Selçuk. Today, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ephesus and its surroundings within the town of Selçuk attract visitors from all over the world. You can explore the city on foot, as the site has clearly marked paths and signs. When visiting Ephesus, be sure to also explore this charming village tucked away in the hills. Eight kilometers from the town center of Selçuk toward the hill, Şirince is about an hour's drive from İzmir. While in Şirince, spend some time exploring the cobblestone streets lined with charming stone houses featuring red tile roofs. Many of these houses have been converted into boutique hotels, restaurants, and shops. The restaurants offer authentic Aegean food and locally produced wines. Full of vines, peach, and apple orchards, Şirince is famous for its fruity wines; you can visit the boutique wineries and see the winemaking process firsthand.

Güzelbahçe

Guzelbahce is a picturesque coastal town known for its scenic views, charming streets, and peaceful atmosphere. The town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and local culture, making it an ideal place for those looking to relax and explore. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants, take a leisurely walk along the coast, or simply soak in the stunning surroundings. Güzelbahçe's relaxed atmosphere and beautiful setting make it the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.