48 hours

Day One

The historical sites of Balıkesir elegantly reflect the city's past prominence, especially during the Ottoman era. Foremost among the places to visit in the city center is the Zağnos Paşa Mosque, built in 1461, which draws attention with its majestic architecture and strikingly well-preserved structure. Another symbolic landmark of the city is the historic Balıkesir Clock Tower, defying time with its imposing stance. Following these cultural discoveries in the center, you can head towards the city's coastline and culinary stops, taking a break at seaside restaurants to taste the famous 'fish salad.' Indeed, Balıkesir is full of delightful venues offering the freshest and most delicious seafood to its visitors.

Ayvalık, known as the "Olive Riviera" because it is reached by following the olive groves, is a mesmerizing day-trip route. Ayvalık features fine sandy beaches overlooking 25 beautiful small islands. You can take a stroll through Ayvalık Macaron Street, the heart of the district that enchants with its old stone houses and nostalgic atmosphere, and see Ayvalık Saatli Mosque (Clock Mosque) and Çınarlı Mosque (former Agios Ioannis Church), which were originally built as churches and later converted into mosques, drawing attention with their unique architecture. Right after, you can visit the Taksiyarhis Church (Monument Museum), which inspires awe with its magnificent architecture and marble craftsmanship, and examine the ruins of the historic Ayazma Church, renowned for its healing waters. Located just alongside Ayvalık, Küçükköy (Yeniçarohori), famous for its historic stone architecture, traditional paved streets, and a cultural face transformed by art galleries in recent years, is another must-discover spot on this route. At the end of the day, you can ascend to the famous "Devil’s Feast" (Şeytan Sofrası) to witness one of the most perfect sunsets in the world. The busiest area of Ayvalık is its harbor, packed with fishing boats and excursion yachts, where terrace restaurants and cafes facing the sea are filled with locals and visitors. Located just 8 km away, Sarımsaklı offers white sandy beaches in a romantic setting.

Day Two

A haven of tranquility in the summer season thanks to the calm Aegean Sea, Ayvalık is a wonderful place where you can unwind and relax amidst the charm of cozy old houses. Another route where nature and history intertwine is the historic Kirazlı Monastery, rising like a mystical sanctuary among the trees deep within the Kapıdağ Peninsula.

Akçay, nestled at the foothills of Mount Ida (Kazdağı), is another attraction center close to Balıkesir. Famous for its therapeutic thermal springs, the area also boasts beautiful natural landscapes worthy of its legendary reputation as the site of the world's first beauty contest, which is said to have led to the Trojan War. Gönen, another destination for thermal tourism, is an excellent relaxation center located 30 km from Bandırma and possesses thermal springs used for healing purposes since antiquity.

When you venture out into the gulf, Marmara Island and Avşa Island welcome you, famous for their fresh fish, local wines, and historical treasures. Boasting wonderful coastlines, these islands are also the source of the world-renowned Marmara marble. For nature lovers, the Bird Paradise National Park (Kuş Cenneti Milli Parkı) on the shores of Lake Manyas is a true haven that should not be missed, hosting 266 bird species for birdwatchers.

To always remember and carry the memories of this fascinating journey in Balıkesir with you, you might consider purchasing an original Yağcıbedir carpet, the product of a deeply rooted tradition woven with great labor in the villages of the city.