Things To Do in Cesme Peninsula
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Cesme Peninsula Attractions
- Landmark
Genovese Castle
Built in the 14th century by the Genovese to protect wine shipments, this fortress was expanded and reconstructed by the Ottoman Sultan Beyazit II in the beginning of the 16th century. It was destroyed during the wars with Venice in the 17th century, restored again in the 18th, and… - Neighborhood
The Village of Ildiri and the Ancient Ruins of Erythrai
Located about a half-hour's drive (17km/11 miles) on the coastal road north from Ilica is Ildiri, which enjoys the shelter of a small bay protected by a series of offshore islands. Not surprisingly, the locals, who number only about 350, make their livings on fishing boats as well as…
Cesme Peninsula Nightlife
People drive from as far as Izmir and beyond for a night out at one of the beachfront restaurant/dance clubs of Çesme. The main event usually takes place in Ayayorgi cove where you'll find a handful of clubs with popular DJs. Many of the hotels also have clubs; expect to pay a cover of 30TL (including the clubs in Ayayorgi). Meanwhile, Istanbul's very popular Babylon venue brings the jazz to the coast in summertime. It's called Babylon Alaçati (Cark Plaji at Alaçati Bay, near the harbor; tel. 0232/716-6707; www.babylon-alacati.com), and it's a restaurant, cafe, bar, beach club, and concert venue all rolled into one. The box office is open Monday to Sunday 10am to 2pm. Babylon runs a free minibus service for ticket holders to events on Fridays and Saturday nights.
For a more mellow evening out, perhaps dinner waterside in Dalylanköy, a drink at the stylish Sisus Hotel, or a stroll along Çesme's Incilap Caddesi (where you'll find back-to-back, more human-sized bars and cafes) is more your speed.
