Ayvalık Old Town,Turkey

• Cunda (Alibey) Island: narrow streets, waterfront tavernas, churches and converted Greek houses
• Taksiyarhis Church (Cunda): restored historic church turned cultural site/museum
• Ayvalık Waterfront and Harbor: scenic promenades and sunset views
• Stone Mansions and Old Greek Houses: Ottoman-era architecture with distinctive balconies and facades
• Local Markets and Olive Oil Shops: tasting and buying regional olive oil and olives
• Boat trips to nearby islets and bays for swimming and photography
• Saatli (Clock) Tower area and the old town core with cobbled lanes

• Well-preserved Aegean Ottoman-Greek architecture and narrow cobbled streets
• Panoramic sea vistas and small sheltered coves suitable for swimming
• Strong olive-culture visible in terraces, mills and shops selling artisanal olive oil products
• A relaxed small-town atmosphere with lively waterfront dining at sunset
• Easy boat access to nearby islands and secluded beaches

• Walking and photography in the old stone streets and alleys
• Dining at seaside tavernas to taste local seafood and olive-oil-based cuisine
• Island hopping and short boat cruises around the Ayvalık archipelago
• Visiting small museums, converted churches and artisan shops
• Olive oil tastings and visits to local olive presses or co-ops
• Taking a guided historical walking tour to learn about the town's multi-ethnic past
• Swimming and sunbathing at nearby small beaches or rocky coves

• Summer music and cultural events hosted locally (classical and popular concerts during July–August)
• Local olive and olive-oil related events and fairs in harvest season (autumn)
• Occasional gastronomic and artisan markets in the high season

Late spring to early autumn (May–October) for warm weather, open restaurants and boat services. June–September is peak season with the liveliest atmosphere; May and September give milder temperatures and fewer crowds.

Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers (July–August highs often 28–34°C / 82–93°F) and mild, wetter winters. Spring and autumn are pleasant and ideal for walking.

Nearest airport: Balıkesir Koca Seyit Airport (EDO) near Edremit (~40–60 km, depending on route). İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport is farther (~150–180 km). Regular intercity buses connect Ayvalık with İzmir, Balıkesir and other Aegean towns. Cunda (Alibey) Island is connected by a causeway and is reachable by car or local minibuses; many parts of the old town have narrow, cobbled lanes not suitable for cars—wear good walking shoes. Limited parking in peak season; consider using local minibuses or walking from nearby parking areas.

1–3 days: A day trip can cover highlights (Cunda island, waterfront and a few historical sites), but 2 days lets you relax, enjoy boat trips and several meals; 3 days offers a leisurely pace and time for nearby beaches or organised tours.

Comfortable walking shoes for cobbles, light clothing and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) in summer; a light jacket for evenings in spring/autumn. Swimwear and beach shoes if you plan to swim. A small daypack and refillable water bottle are useful.

Must-try foods: fresh Aegean seafood, mezes, and the local specialty Ayvalık tost (a regional toasted sandwich), plus olive-oil-based dishes. Souvenirs: extra-virgin olive oil, cured olives, artisanal olive-oil soaps, olive-wood crafts and local handicrafts.