The best traffic-free bike rides in Izmir

The ancient city of Erythrai was an important Ionian city on the east coast of the Aegean Sea, northeast of Çeşme. Çeşme, formerly known as Cyssus, was the port city of Erythrai. The area now known as Ildırı is 22 kilometers from the center of Çeşme. Dating back to the Bronze Age, it is believed that this city got its name from the red color of its soil. It is known that this town, where trade was prominent, was once famous for the grinding stones it produced and exported. Excavations in this area were started in 1964 by Prof. Ekrem Akurgal. The theater discovered during these excavations, dating back to the 3rd century BC, was carved into the hillside. The aqueducts in the south date to the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) period. Excavations uncovered the Temple of Athena dated to the 7th century BC and mentioned by Pausanias. The temple was damaged in 540 BC. It is known that it was renovated around 530 BC. Remains of villas and settlement walls from Hellenistic and Roman times can still be seen. Recently, the Ildırı Culture and Art Festival has been organized in the ancient city of Erythrai at the end of August to raise awareness about the archaeological site and to revitalize agriculture. The festival attracts people of all ages with its music festivals, theaters, seminars and workshops. In this festival, products and handicrafts made by local people at home without using any technical tools are exhibited and sold.

Çeşme Castle was built in 1508, during the reign of Sultan Bayezid II, by the Governor of Aydın, Mir Haydar, to the architect Ahmet son Mehmet. The castle, which was built with 4 bastions made of cut stone, was on the seaside when it was first built, but as a result of the filling of the sea, its present location has remained far from the sea. Evliya Çelebi gives information about the physical condition, size, architecture and houses in the castle. Destroyed in the 17th century during naval battles and restored in the 18th century, the construction inscription of Çeşme Castle has survived to the present day. Çeşme Archeology Museum is located inside the restored castle. The museum was opened for the first time in 1965 as a weapon museum with weapons brought from the Topkapi Museum in Istanbul and continued as such until 1984. Since the weapons in the museum started to oxidize and deteriorate due to the excessive humidity in the hall, they were transferred to Izmir Archeology Museum and Ödemiş Museum. In the same exhibition hall, artifacts from the rescue excavations in the ancient city of Erythrai in Ildırı, which have been ongoing since 1964, are exhibited. Çeşme Castle was included on the Tentative List of World Heritage Sites by UNECSO in 2020.

Çeşme Marina is a world-class marina located in the Aegean region of Türkiye. It is situated in the town of Çeşme, which is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque architecture. The marina is designed to cater to the needs of both local and international yacht owners, with state-of-the-art facilities and services. It has a capacity to accommodate up to 400 yachts, including mega yachts up to 60 meters in length. The marina also provides 24-hour security, mooring assistance, and concierge services. Çeşme Marina is not only a popular destination for yacht owners, but also for tourists who come to enjoy the lively atmosphere of the town and the surrounding area. The marina is conveniently located close to many popular attractions, such as the Çeşme Castle, the historic Alaçatı town, and numerous sandy beaches. Visitors to the marina can also take advantage of the on-site restaurants, bars, and cafes, as well as the shopping and entertainment facilities. With its beautiful setting, world-class amenities, and lively atmosphere, Çeşme Marina is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Aegean region of Türkiye.

Urla pier is a very nice place to take a break. In addition to cafes and restaurants, there is a tea garden run by a women's cooperative. The products are both very fresh and economical.

Take water bro