Çeşme holidays

Çeşme holidays

Deals from £453 per person

Perched on Turkey’s western coastline overlooking the glimmering Aegean Sea, you’ll discover the sunny seaside destination of Çeşme. From golden, sandy beaches to the historical castle in the heart of town, Çeşme holidays have a lot to offer.

If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush green countryside, perfect for strolls or as a backdrop to your days in town. Take your time relaxing on the shoreline before wandering through the narrow streets past traditional Turkish houses.

Make your way to the bustling harbour where you’ll find a superb selection of cafés and restaurants serving the catch of the day and many other local delights. After dark, Çeşme comes to life, with many bars and clubs staying open until the early hours. Whatever you’re looking for from your Turkish holiday, Çeşme boasts something for everyone.

Things to do

If all you want to do on holiday is spend long days on the warm, sunny beach, then this place has just what you need. Çeşme holidays can be easily dozed away on the soft golden sand, milling between the town and the shore for snacks and drinks at intervals throughout the day. Many hotels in Çeşme boast beautiful pools to relax by too, a perfect change of scenery if you’d prefer a little more privacy.

If you really want to unwind, a trip to the natural springs is in order. Sink into the naturally warm water and let the hot bubbles relax all your muscles and joints. Beyond the glorious coastline, there are many ways to keep busy in Çeşme. The town has a fascinating ancient past that’s just waiting to be unlocked. If you’re interested in learning about the history of Çeşme, your first port of call must be the castle in the centre of town.

Natural adventures

If you want to head out into nature, you’ll find lots of country trails on your doorstep too. So lace up your boots and get walking, there are few better ways to leave your troubles behind.

For a memorable day out that makes the most of Çeşme’s nature, visit the Çeşme Thermal Spring in Izmir and enjoy a relaxing experience like no other. Thermal pools in Çeşme are thought to have healing properties for many ailments. We can’t promise a miracle cure, but you’re sure to enjoy the mood-boosting benefits of this natural wonder.

Spectacular beaches

Çeşme is home to several stunning beaches dotted along the beautiful coast. The toasty sand here is lapped by the Aegean Sea’s shallow, clear waters. They’re both safe and attractive, perfect for a relaxing or playful holiday with the family. Recline on sun loungers and top up your tan, or take shade beneath a parasol and settle in to read snooze. Picturesque views across the turquoise water, which glistens in the sunshine, are enough to put anyone at ease.

If you prefer to get active when you visit the beach, you won’t be disappointed by Çeşme. There are many water sports to enjoy from this beautiful stretch of shore. The beaches of Çeşme are famous among windsurfers thanks to the nearby hot springs, which drive a warm breeze across the water creating perfect conditions for the sport.

History and culture

Çeşme was first colonised as a health resort, with beautiful thermal springs that many people consider to have healing qualities. Çeşme means fountain in Turkish; the town earnt its name as a destination for the Ottoman navy to gather fresh drinking water. Discover the springs, the harbour, castle, and many more historical spots in and around Çeşme to get a little more out of your holiday.

The natural landscape which surrounds Çeşme gives this unique Turkish town much of its laidback charm and atmosphere. It’s also ideal if you want to explore the archaeological sites nearby, including the ruins of buildings destroyed in the Great War of 1923.

Eating out

Çeşme is one of Turkey’s most tourist-friendly towns, which means plenty of eateries to suit every taste. Whether you want to sample traditional Turkish cuisine or you prefer to stick with what you know, you’ll find lots of restaurants serving food all day.

To start the day off right, try a traditional Turkish breakfast of bread, jams, olives, tomatoes and cold salads before exploring the town or hitting the beach. You can find plenty of cafés serving breakfast items you might be more used to, so don’t worry if you know what you like!

In the afternoon, grab a wrap or kebab with freshly baked meat and crisp, refreshing salad – a perfect lunch in Çeşme. Dinner time means many more options, including Turkish and international restaurants with views overlooking the harbour. Settle in for a leisurely meal and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of this beautiful Turkish town.

Modern nightlife

Çeşme is an upmarket coastal town with a lively yet modest nightlife. The beach clubs are some of the most popular that Çeşme has to offer, hosting day parties in the peak season and transforming into buzzing nightclubs in the evening all year round.

Head into Çeşme at night to enjoy cocktails and other drinks in lazy beach bars, while live music sings through the warm Turkish air. Marina Yacht Club is an excellent choice for live jazz. For your big night out on holiday, head to Sole Mare Beach Club, one of the most popular beach clubs in town with access to the shore and outdoor bars adding to the atmosphere.

If you prefer your nightlife a little less intense, you’ll find plenty of casual bars in central Çeşme. Simply wander around the streets, soaking up the local atmosphere until you settle on a spot that suits your group.

More travel guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including, including: Antalya | Bodrum | Dalaman | Istanbul | Izmir | Kusadasi | Ozdere

 

 

Map of Cesme

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30 ℃

Expect long, hot summers and mild, wet winters.

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4 hours

Izmir Airport (ADB).

Cesme is best for...

Nature lovers: From secluded coves to natural springs, Çeşme is brimming with natural beauty that’s ready and waiting for you to explore, and there are plenty of countryside trails to follow, too.

History buffs: You’ll love learning about the town’s Bronze Age past and the rise of the Ottoman Empire, as pass through historic remains around town. Go and see the beautifully restored castle, which dates back to the 14th century.

Foodies: Forget about end-of-the-night kebabs; head for the harbour where you’ll find juicy Turkish sausages and fresh seafood galore. If you feel like sharing, order a tasty meze platter.

Fast facts for Cesme

Language: Turkish, with English spoken in most of the tourist spots and hotels.

Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY).

Local time: Cesme is 2 hours ahead of GMT/UK time.

Fly to: Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport. The transfer time to Cesme is 2 hours. 

Flight time from UK: The Cesme flight time is 4 hours.

Visas / health: If you’re a British Citizen and you’re travelling to Cesme for a holiday, you will not need a visa unless you are planning on staying for more than 90 days in a 180-day period. If you need any more advice on Turkey visas, or entry requirements - please visit FCDO website for the latest guidance.  

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Getting around Cesme

On foot: It’s really easy to explore the resort and its attractions on foot. Find the main square and marina close to the castle, and just follow the street signs if you’re unsure where to go.

By dolmus: You’ll find these local minibuses running in Çeşme, Turkey, and it’s an affordable way to get to the surrounding resorts. Services run to Izmir every 45 minutes or so.

Events in Cesme

Alacati Herb Festival: Held every year in April, this event welcomes spring’s arrival, and you’ll have the chance to sample a wealth of traditional dishes using fresh herbs from the region.  

Çeşme Sea and Music Festival: First held in 1989, this festival is a celebration of Turkish culture. You can expect world music performances, a swimming race, cocktail parties and more. It takes place at the end of June or in the first week of July.

Çeşme Marina Wine Festival: At the end of August or the beginning of September, you’ll have the chance to sample hundreds of types of wine from various producers, you’ll want to take it slow. There’s a series of concerts to enjoy, too.

Cesme weather

Temperature: Low 30s (°C) in the peak summer.

Best time to visit: Travel in the springtime, when it’s mild but not too hot.

Book Çeşme holidays before the summer season kicks in to enjoy warm spring temperatures in the mid-teens (°C). When the peak season arrives, you can expect glorious highs of 33 (°C) and there’s little to no chance of seeing rain; no wonder it’s the most popular time of the year to hit the beach. It’s slightly cooler in autumn, and winters remain pretty mild. But rain is likely at this time of year, so remember to pack a brolly. 

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