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Nearly 1M tourists flock to tiny Turkish town with 75,000 residents

Nearly 1M tourists flock to tiny Turkish town with 75,000 residents
June 20, 2024 10:58 AM GMT+03:00

The holiday season in Ayvalik, Türkiye, is bustling with activity, drawing attention to its natural beauty and diverse attractions.

Seytan Sofrasi, located atop rugged cliffs 8 km south of Ayvalik town center, offers stunning views of the Ayvalık Islands and Lesbos Island, Türkiye. (Marlo Photo)
Seytan Sofrasi, located atop rugged cliffs 8 km south of Ayvalik town center, offers stunning views of the Ayvalık Islands and Lesbos Island, Türkiye. (Marlo Photo)

Ayvalik, renowned for its 22 islands including Cunda (Alibey), Sarimsakli Beach stretching 17 kilometers, and Seytan Sofrasi offering spectacular sunset views, is a hotspot this holiday.

Ayvalik's most special delicacy, Papalina, is a small fish similar to anchovy that is eaten whole with its bones, Türkiye. (Ayvalik Aegon Photo)
Ayvalik's most special delicacy, Papalina, is a small fish similar to anchovy that is eaten whole with its bones, Türkiye. (Ayvalik Aegon Photo)

Known for its red corals, gastronomy, and thriving camping and caravan tourism, Ayvalik continues to captivate visitors.

An aerial view shows Sarimsakli at sunset, in Balıkesir, Türkiye. (Shutterstock Photo)
An aerial view shows Sarimsakli at sunset, in Balıkesir, Türkiye. (Shutterstock Photo)

Vacationers flock to Sarimsakli Beach for a refreshing swim and stroll along Cunda Island in the evenings. Cunda, celebrated for its nature, historical sites, and culturally rich heritage, also boasts a cuisine well-versed in seafood and appetizers.

Cunda Island, also known as “Alibey Island“, is the fourth biggest island on the Aegean coast and it’s inAyvalık, Balıkesir, Türkiye (Ayvalik Aegon Photo)
Cunda Island, also known as “Alibey Island“, is the fourth biggest island on the Aegean coast and it’s inAyvalık, Balıkesir, Türkiye (Ayvalik Aegon Photo)

With a population nearing one million during the Eid al-Adha holiday season, Ayvalik opens its doors to a significant influx of tourists.

Hosting 20,000 beds across 425 accommodations, the town accommodates up to 75,000 residents year-round, gearing up for the bustling holiday period.

A 70-bed capacity hotel on Cunda Island, Türkiye. (Ortunc Photo)
A 70-bed capacity hotel on Cunda Island, Türkiye. (Ortunc Photo)

We are prepared to handle the holiday crowds with all municipal resources dedicated to ensuring optimal conditions for our guests and supporting local businesses. Our teams, especially our sanitation services, are working tirelessly to maintain cleanliness and comfort

Mayor Mesut Ergin

Close proximity to major cities like Istanbul enhances Ayvalik's appeal, ensuring a vibrant tourism season ahead.

Patrica Cove, Cunda inAyvalık, Balıkesir, Türkiye. (Teknelvia Photo)
Patrica Cove, Cunda inAyvalık, Balıkesir, Türkiye. (Teknelvia Photo)

Tour operators like Hakan Gur report high demand for day trips to the islands, reflecting a positive reception from visitors during this festive time.

Green cove, Cunda in Ayvalik, Balikesir, Türkiye (Teknelvia Photo)
Green cove, Cunda in Ayvalik, Balikesir, Türkiye (Teknelvia Photo)
June 20, 2024 10:58 AM GMT+03:00
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