On a first visit to Foça, the places to see are the stone streets of Eski Foça, the fishing harbour and a boat trip to the Siren Rocks. About 69 km north-west of Izmir city centre, Foça is a calm seaside district carrying the heritage of ancient Phocaea, where Mediterranean monk seals are protected.
What Is the Difference Between Eski Foça and Yeni Foça?
Eski Foça (Old Foça) is the district centre; with its stone houses, harbour and fish restaurants it is a historic, calm town. Yeni Foça (New Foça) is a separate resort 20 km from the centre, focused on beach holidays with wider beaches and holiday estates.
In short, the choice can be made like this:
- Eski Foça: couples, photographers, history and food lovers.
- Yeni Foça: families who want a wide beach and those on long summer stays.
What Is the History of Foça?
Foça's ancient name is Phocaea; the city was founded by the Aeolians in the 11th century BC. The Phocaeans were skilled sailors who founded colonies across the Mediterranean; Massalia, today's Marseille, was one of them.
Besides ancient remains, the walls of a medieval castle can be seen in the town. For the event devoted to the town's archaeological heritage, see our Foça Film Days guide.
Where Are the Siren Rocks and the Seals?
The Siren Rocks described by Homer lie off Foça and are easiest to see on a boat trip. Foça is one of the marine protected areas set up to protect the endangered Mediterranean monk seal.
Boat trips leave from the harbour and stop for swimming among the islands. Seeing the seals is a matter of luck; follow the rules of the protected area, do not approach the seals and do not feed them. Chartering a private boat instead of a crowded tour is the best way to enjoy the calm of the bays.
What to Eat and Where to Stay in Foça?
The fish restaurants lined along the harbour of Eski Foça are the centre of the town's evening life; it is a good idea to book on summer evenings. For accommodation, small boutique hotels and guesthouses in converted stone houses stand out in Eski Foça, and hotels and apartments near the beach in Yeni Foça. The stone-house hotels in Eski Foça have few rooms, so book a few weeks ahead for summer weekends.
What Day Trips Can You Take from Foça?
Foça is a base close to the history and beach stops of the North Aegean:
- Bergama: a full day for the Acropolis and the Asclepion.
- Dikili and Çandarlı: beaches of different character and a castle.
- Menemen: a short stop for its potters and the dish named after it.
These stops are within easy driving distance of Foça for a there-and-back trip; set off early in the morning for Bergama.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Foça?
The best time for the sea in Foça is June to September; even in July and August the town is never as crowded as Çeşme or Bodrum. Spring and autumn are ideal for quiet streets and walks. When planning, keep in mind:
- Choose morning departures for boat trips.
- Book harbour restaurants on summer weekends.
- Driving in the inner streets of Eski Foça is hard; explore on foot.
How Do You Get from the Airport to Foça?
The road from Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport to Foça is about 85 km and takes about 1.5 hours on average. As Eski Foça and Yeni Foça are 20 km apart, state which one you are going to when booking.
You can get a quote for a car and driver on our Izmir Airport to Foça transfer page. For those who want to see an ancient city on the way, Kyme and Neon Teikhos are good stops.
Who Is Foça Suitable For?
Foça suits couples, anyone looking for a quiet weekend, nature and sea lovers and families with small children. It is not for those looking for nightlife and big beach clubs; Çeşme is a better choice for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Foça from Izmir?
Foça is about 69 km from Izmir city centre; from the airport the road is about 85 km and takes 1.5 hours.
How far is Eski Foça from Yeni Foça?
Yeni Foça is 20 km from the centre of Foça.
Can you see seals in Foça?
You can, but it is a matter of luck. Foça is one of the marine protected areas for the Mediterranean monk seal.
Where are the Siren Rocks?
The Siren Rocks described by Homer lie off Foça and can be seen on a boat trip.
Who founded Foça?
Ancient Phocaea was founded by the Aeolians in the 11th century BC; the Phocaeans later founded Massalia (Marseille).