Balikesir - Discovering Turkey

Travelling to Balikesir

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Balikesir, a pretty good destination in Turkey (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Balikesir and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Balikesir, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Turkey, here's everything to know about Balikesir for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Balikesir

Balikesir is a city located in the Marmara Region of Turkey. It is the capital of the Balikesir Province and has a population of approximately 270,000 people. The city is known for its historic heritage and cultural attractions, such as the Ayvalik Islands, the ancient city of Pergamon, and the Kaz Mountains National Park. Balikesir is also an important commercial and transportation hub, with a strategic location between Istanbul and Izmir. Visitors can enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine, local markets, and traditional activities such as thermal spas and hiking.

What to visit in Balikesir

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Balikesir, Turkey and some information about each one: 1. Kaz Mountains National Park - This beautiful national park is one of the most popular attractions in Balikesir. Located just outside of the city, the park features stunning mountain scenery, forests, wildlife, and hiking trails.
2. Ayvalık Islands - This group of islands off the coast of Balikesir is a popular destination for boating and swimming. Visitors can take a ferry to explore the islands and enjoy the pristine beaches and clear waters.
3. Mount Ida - This mountain range is a popular spot for hiking and trekking in Balikesir. It is also thought to be the mythical home of the gods in Greek mythology.
4. Sarkoy - This picturesque coastal town is known for its seafood, beautiful beaches, and charming streets lined with historic buildings.
5. Edremit - This bustling town is famous for its hot springs, which are said to have healing properties. Visitors can relax in the thermal baths and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the surrounding mountains.
6. Altinoluk Beach - Located on the Aegean Sea, Altinoluk Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving.
7. Troy Ancient City - Located in the nearby province of Canakkale, the ancient city of Troy is one of the most important archaeological sites in Turkey. It is thought to have been the setting for Homer's epic poem, the Iliad.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions Balikesir has to offer.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Turkey, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Balikesir.

When to go on holiday to Balikesir

The best time to visit Balikesir is during the late spring months (April-May) and early autumn months (September-October). During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing, and the tourist crowds are significantly fewer than in the peak summer months. In summer (June-August), the temperatures can be quite hot, and the crowds are at their highest, which can make it difficult to enjoy some of the popular tourist attractions. Additionally, during the winter months (November-March), the weather is cooler and rainy.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Balikesir

There are several ways to get to Balikesir, Turkey: 1. By plane: Balikesir has its own airport, called Balikesir Koca Seyit Airport, which receives domestic flights from Istanbul and Ankara. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to the city center.
2. By bus: There are frequent buses from Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and other major cities in Turkey to Balikesir. The journey time varies depending on the starting point, but it usually takes between 5-7 hours. You can book your bus tickets online or at the bus station.
3. By train: There are many trains that run from Istanbul and Ankara to Balikesir. The journey time is around 7-8 hours and the train station in Balikesir is located in the city center.
4. By car: You can also rent a car or drive your own to Balikesir. The city is located on the major highways and the journey time from Istanbul is around 4-5 hours depending on the traffic.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Balikesir, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Balikesir

Here are some typical foods of Balikesir, Turkey, with a short description for each of them: 1. Balikesir Kofte: This specialty is a type of meatball made with ground beef or lamb mixed with herbs, spices, bread crumbs and eggs. 2. Kiyga: A traditional dish of Balikesir made of egg and yogurt mixed with flour, seasoned with herbs and baked in the oven. 3. Mantı: A dumpling-like dish consisting of small pieces of dough filled with minced meat, served with yogurt and tomato sauce. 4. Geven: A dish made from tender leaves of the wild spinach, which is popular in Balikesir. It is served with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and olive oil. 5. Pink Halva: A popular dessert in the region, made by mixing semolina with sugar syrup and butter, before adding food color and pistachios. 6. Ayran: A cold beverage made from yogurt, salt and water, often served with Turkish dishes in Balikesir. 7. Zerde: A traditional dessert in Turkey, made of rice, sugar, saffron, and rose water, and garnished with nuts. 8. Kuzu Tandır: Lamb cooked in a wood-fired oven for hours, making the meat tender and juicy. Served with bulgur and vegetables. 9. Çiğ Köfte: A popular dish made from raw ground beef, mixed with cracked wheat, tomato paste, onions, garlic and spicy red pepper paste. 10. Kabak Tatlısı: A delicious dessert made from pumpkin or butternut squash, cooked with sugar syrup and cinnamon, and served with cream.
You can find general info about typical foods in Turkey here.

Is Balikesir an expensive destination for tourists?

Balikesir, Turkey is not considered a very expensive destination for tourists. The cost of living in Balikesir is lower compared to other popular tourist destinations in Turkey such as Istanbul, Antalya, or Bodrum. However, prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation, food, and activities you choose.
For example, budget accommodation options such as hostels or guesthouses can range from 30-50 TL per night, while mid-range hotels can cost around 150-200 TL per night. As for food and drinks, street food and local restaurants offer affordable options with meals starting from 10-15 TL. However, high-end restaurants and cafes can be pricey.
Overall, Balikesir offers a good value for money experience for tourists with plenty of affordable options to choose from.

Where to find accomodation in Balikesir

The best areas to find accommodation in Balikesir (Turkey) are the city center, Altıeylül district, and Ayvalık district. The city center is where most of the historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and shopping centers are located. Altıeylül district is known for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and cafes. And Ayvalık district is a popular beach destination, which offers a relaxing atmosphere and a variety of water sports.
You can check hotel prices at Balikesir here:
Booking.com

Is Balikesir a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Balikesir is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is still important to exercise caution during your trip. It is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Additionally, be sure to follow the local laws and customs and respect the local culture. In case of any emergency or if you feel unsafe, don't hesitate to contact the local authorities or your embassy.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Turkey here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Balikesir.

What type of travelers will enjoy Balikesir the most?

Balikesir, Turkey has something to offer for all types of travelers, whether you're a couple, young people looking for fun, or families. Couples can enjoy a romantic getaway in Balikesir as it offers scenic views of the Marmara and Aegean Seas, historical landmarks, and a variety of cultural experiences. There are also spas and wellness centers that offer relaxation and rejuvenation.
Young people can enjoy Balikesir's vibrant nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and restaurants. The city also offers outdoor activities such as hiking and water sports that are perfect for adventure seekers.
Families can enjoy a range of activities, including the Balikesir Zoo, the Kursunlu Mosque, and the Green Mosque. Balikesir also has several parks and green areas that are perfect for picnics and outdoor activities. Additionally, the city's museums offer educational experiences for all ages.
Overall, Balikesir is a versatile destination that can cater to all types of travelers.

How to get around Balikesir

While in Balikesir, you can use a combination of transportation options to move around the city. The most common ones are buses, taxis, and dolmus. Buses are a cost-effective way to get around the city, as they cover many routes. Taxis offer a more comfortable and faster option, but could be more expensive. Dolmus is another convenient option, particularly in the city center or for short distances. These are shared taxis that run on the same routes as regular buses but with no fixed schedule. Choosing the mode of transportation will depend on how far your intended destination is, budget, and personal preference.

What to see around Balikesir

Here are some nice places to visit for a day trip from Balikesir in Turkey: 1. Ayvalik: A picturesque coastal town with beaches, historic Greek houses, and lots of seafood restaurants.
2. Edremit: A small town famous for its thermal springs, olive groves, and locally made olive oil.
3. Kaz Dağı National Park: A beautiful mountain range with hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife.
4. Bozcaada: A small island in the Aegean Sea, with beautiful beaches, vineyards, and a charming town center.
5. Havran: A historic town with well-preserved Ottoman architecture and a 700-year-old mosque.
6. Kocaseyit Village: A unique village located on a hill with traditional houses made of stone, beautiful views, and a calm atmosphere.
7. Erdek: A pretty coastal town with beaches, water sports, and fresh seafood.
I hope this helps!
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