Things To Do
in Edremit
Edremit is a coastal town in Balıkesir Province set along the Aegean Sea, surrounded by extensive olive groves and pine forests. Its seafront promenades, friendly cafés, and traditional markets create a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Inland, Kaz Dağı National Park offers forested slopes, viewpoints, and a sense of wild countryside just a short drive away.
The area blends authentic Turkish hospitality with easy access to Ayvalık, Cunda Island, and scenic coastal routes along the turquoise sea.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by wandering through the charming streets of Edremit's historic center, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of old Ottoman houses. Stop by a local café for a traditional Turkish breakfast, complete with fresh bread, olives, tomatoes, and local cheese. Don't miss the chance to visit the Edremit Archaeological Museum to learn about the area's rich history.
After lunch at a local eatery, head to the nearby Adatepe Village, known for its stunning stone houses and olive groves. Explore the village on foot, taking in the picturesque scenery and perhaps purchasing some artisanal olive oil. Take a leisurely hike to the ancient Temple of Athena at Assos, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding countryside.
Return to Edremit and enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, where you can indulge in freshly caught seafood and traditional mezes. After dinner, stroll along the waterfront promenade, watching the sunset over the Aegean Sea. End your day with a relaxing cup of Turkish tea at a local café, soaking in the ambiance of this lovely town.
Start your day with a refreshing swim at Akçay Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and sandy shores. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachside café, where you can savor local pastries and fresh fruit. After breakfast, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline at your own pace.
Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun and enjoying beach activities such as beach volleyball or sunbathing. If you're feeling adventurous, consider trying jet skiing or parasailing for an exhilarating experience on the water. Take a break for a light lunch at a beach bar, where you can enjoy a refreshing cocktail or smoothie.
As the sun begins to set, head to a nearby beach club for a lively evening atmosphere. Enjoy dinner with a view of the sea, sampling delicious grilled fish and local specialties. Dance the night away to live music or a DJ set, surrounded by the vibrant energy of fellow beachgoers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🍽Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $25-40 |
| 🫙Bottle of local olive oil | $6-15 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Olive oil and food culture
- Beautiful coast and nearby Kaz Dağı National Park
- Relaxed nightlife and friendly locals
- Strong access to nature and cultural sites
- Limited big-city nightlife
- Seasonal crowds in peak summer
- Some areas require a car to reach scenic spots
- Smaller international flight options compared to larger Turkish destinations
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me
- "Neredesiniz?" - Where is it?
- "Bu ne kadar?" - How much is this?
- "Yardım edebilir misiniz?" - Could you help me?
- "İyi günler" - Have a good day
Places to Visit in Edremit
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats with whitewashed houses reflected in the water as the sun sinks over the Aegean.
Narrow lanes and traditional balconies with bougainvillea, perfect for atmospheric street photography.
Panoramic overlook points over olive groves and the coastal plain.
Sailboats and fishing boats at dawn or dusk along the curved shoreline.
Food in Edremit
Edremit Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lamb or beef served with crispy potatoes, tomato sauce, and yogurt, a signature of the Ayvalık-Edremit region.
Must-Try!
A thick toasted sandwich with cheese, tomatoes, and sometimes olive paste.
Artichokes cooked in olive oil with lemon and herbs.
Freshly grilled fish caught that day, often served with salads and bread.
Savory flatbread stuffed with cheese, spinach, or potatoes, cooked on a griddle.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning stalls with olives, cheese, seafood, herbs, and seasonal produce.
Nearby market offering olive oil, honey, dried herbs, and crafts.
Simit, midye dolma, and local pastries along the seafront promenades.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say merhaba with a smile; greet elders respectfully; use the right hand for handshakes in formal settings.
Dress modestly when visiting mosques or rural areas; comfortable clothing and shoes for walking.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages; avoid taking photos of children without consent.
Keep voices moderate in public; avoid loud displays of affection in quiet or religious areas.
Safety
Tipping in Edremit
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, if the bill does not include service, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated; small rounding up at cafes is common.
Cash in Turkish Lira is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are commonly accepted in most establishments; mobile payments and contactless cards are increasingly used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and blooming almond and olive trees; ideal for hiking and photography.
Hot and dry; beaches fill with locals and visitors; stay hydrated and seek sea breezes and early morning activities.
Warm days with cooler nights; harvest season for olives; great for food tours and outdoor exploration.
Mild coastal winter with occasional rain; fewer crowds but rich green landscapes after rain.
Edremit at Night
Hiking in Edremit
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested routes with scenic viewpoints and biodiversity, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
Gentle to moderate trails through olive groves with coastal vistas.
Longer ridge and shoreline hikes offering sea views and island silhouettes.
Airports
How to reach Edremit by plane.
Regional airport serving Edremit and Ayvalık; connections to Istanbul and Ankara; about a 90–120 minute drive to central Edremit.
Major international hub about 140–180 km away; from there you can fly domestically or drive to Edremit.
Primary gateways for long-haul flights; from Istanbul you can take a domestic flight or a longer overland journey to Balıkesir region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish with families, farmers, and fishermen; a strong agricultural heritage.
Summer crowds drawn to beaches, markets, and olive oil events; many return visitors from other Turkish cities.
Ayvalık and surrounding areas reflect a historical Greek influence in architecture and culinary style.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local pastime with clubs and informal games in town squares.
Beaches around Akçay and Ayvalık are great for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in warmer months.
Rural and coastal roads offer scenic routes for day trips and longer rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Edremit.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are abundant, including salads, börek, grilled vegetables, and olive oil dishes; ask for no meat in dishes and specify no animal rennet in cheeses.