Fringed by a golden sandy beach and a breezy promenade, Cesme backs onto the aquamarine Aegean Sea. Spend your days exploring the ancient castle, soaking in warm thermal sulphur springs and devouring freshly caught seafood.

Things to do

Dive into the town's colourful past at the Cesme Archaeology Museum, located in a 16th-century Genoese fortress that once protected the coast from pirate attacks. It houses a museum filled with marble busts, copper coins and other local artefacts.

The statue of Cezayirli Gazi Hasan Pasa watches over the waterfront and is one of Cesme's most iconic landmarks. It celebrates the legacy of the revered Ottoman fleet commander who reigned in the 1700s.

As you stroll around the city, don't miss the chance to peer into restored buildings like Ayios Haralambos Church. It sits to the north of Cesme Fortress and enchants visitors with its whitewashed walls and startling blue mosaics. The church also serves as a venue for local art exhibitions.

Cesme is anchored by a lively town centre where you'll find a collection of cafes, taverns and seafood restaurants. Horasan is a local favourite with its outdoor tables and a menu of grilled fish and seafood pasta. If a juicy Turkish doner is on your wishlist, head to Tokmak Hasan'in Yeri, Cesme's most popular kebab joint.

Getting around

The easiest way to get around Cesme is on foot, while there are also plenty of minibuses and taxis cruising the streets. Shuttles run between Cesme and Izmir's Adnan Menderes Airport and local buses travel to Istanbul and Ankara.