On a first visit to Ayvalık, the places to see are the old bazaar with its stone houses, Cunda Island linked to the mainland by bridges, Şeytan Sofrası for the sunset and Sarımsaklı for the sea. 155 km from Izmir by road, Ayvalık is one of the most distinctive towns of the North Aegean, known for olive oil, soap and Cretan cuisine.
What Is There to See in Ayvalık?
The main stops that fill a day in Ayvalık are:
- The old bazaar and stone streets: churches turned into mosques, old olive oil factories and boutique hotels.
- Cunda Island: fish restaurants, Taş Kahve and the back streets.
- Şeytan Sofrası: sunset over the islands.
- Sarımsaklı: a long sandy beach and the sea.
- A boat trip among the roughly 22 islands, large and small, around Ayvalık.
Industrial plants producing soap and olive oil from olives still operate in Ayvalık today, and some of the old factory buildings have become hotels and restaurants. There are olive oil shops and workshops in town where you can taste.
What Is There to Do on Cunda Island?
A day on Cunda Island is spent between the fish restaurants on the waterfront, Taş Kahve and the back streets lined with stone houses. Also known as Alibey Island, Cunda is Turkey's fourth-largest island in the Aegean and the only inhabited island of the Ayvalık group.
On the hilltop, the windmill at the spot known as Lovers' Hill was restored in 2006 and opened to visitors; it offers views over the island and the bay. Most of the island's population descends from families who came from Crete and Lesbos in the population exchange, which is why Cretan cuisine is so present in Cunda's meze and herb dishes.
What Is Şeytan Sofrası?
Şeytan Sofrası ("the Devil's Table") is a hill south of Ayvalık with an old lava deposit on which, according to belief, the devil left his footprint. From the top you get a bird's-eye view of the Ayvalık islands and the bay, and at sunset it becomes one of the busiest spots in Ayvalık.
On summer evenings the car park fills quickly, so arrive at least half an hour before sunset.
What Is Sarımsaklı Beach Like?
Sarımsaklı beaches are in Küçükköy, 6 km south of the town centre, and stretch for 12 km along the coast. The sand is long and wide, and the water of the North Aegean is cooler than on the southern coasts. Hotels and beach businesses line the shore, making for an easy beach day for families.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Ayvalık?
The best time for the sea in Ayvalık is June to September; because the water of the North Aegean is cool, swimmers prefer July and August. In autumn the olive harvest begins and the town takes on a calmer, more local feel.
Ayvalık and Cunda are lived-in places in winter too; some restaurants stay open, but boat trips and beach businesses mostly close. When planning, keep in mind:
- Book the fish restaurants on Cunda on summer evenings.
- Go up Şeytan Sofrası before sunset, as the traffic back is heavy.
- Bring a light layer, as evenings can be cool.
How Do You Get from the Airport to Ayvalık?
The road from Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport to Ayvalık is about 210 km and takes 2.5–3 hours on average. The other nearby option is Balıkesir Koca Seyit Airport in Edremit, 45 km from Ayvalık.
For door-to-door transport including Cunda and Sarımsaklı, get a quote on our Izmir Airport to Ayvalık transfer page. If you want a break on the way, Bergama is a good stop.
Who Is Ayvalık Suitable For?
Ayvalık suits couples, food lovers, photographers and families who want a calm beach holiday. Those looking for nightlife and beach clubs may prefer Çeşme or Bodrum. Ayvalık combines easily with a North Aegean route: see our guides to the Edremit Gulf for olives, Assos for an ancient city and Dikili for the sea.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Ayvalık from Izmir?
Ayvalık is 155 km from Izmir by road. From Izmir Airport the road is about 210 km and takes 2.5–3 hours.
Can you drive to Cunda Island?
Yes. Cunda Island is linked to the mainland by bridges, so you can drive straight across.
How many islands are there in Ayvalık?
There are roughly 22 islands, large and small, around Ayvalık; Cunda is the only inhabited one.
How far is Sarımsaklı from Ayvalık centre?
Sarımsaklı beaches are 6 km south of the town centre and stretch for 12 km.
Is there a ferry from Ayvalık to the Greek islands?
Yes. Tourists from Greece reach Ayvalık by ferry and sea bus in about two hours; check current sailings with the port operator.