Today we explore Ayvalik, the home of Turkish olives. Ayvalik is on the northwestern coast of Turkey and is full of artistic and cultural heritage. The city is friendly and relaxed and the surrounding landscape is cultivated with olive trees, a symbol of peace. 

Ayvalik has been invaded and occupied by many different populations, from the Macedonians to the Romans and the Byzantines; and there are even some archaeological sites showing evidence of prehistoric settlements in this area.

In the past, there were lots of pirate raids on these islands and inhabitants from the neighbouring islands came to stay on Ayvalik to find safety. Later, during the Ottoman Empire, Sultan Mohammed II restored security at sea, but the people decided to settle on Ayvalik permanently. In the past the local people mainly lived off fishing and maritime trade, Ayvalik began to be prosperous and became one of the most important centres of trade. By the end of the 1700s, the city was at the height of its social and economic splendour, consulates were established and export began which created economic and cultural development, many famous people also lived here.

The roads in the city descend towards the sea and form a grid of intersecting parallel paths. The urban fabric of the city reflects the ancient world of the XVIII century; and the culture, landscapes and houses feel very similar to other Mediterranean countries like Spain, southern Italy and Greece because of the presence of olive trees and the sea. Typical houses on Ayvalik have tall, wide doors and windows, and are covered with sarimsak, a local stone. 

There is also plenty of Islamic culture and architecture in Ayvalik, one of the most beautiful buildings in the city is Saatli Mosque. It in is the city centre, in the İsmet Paşa district. It was initially conceived as a church dedicated to St. John and was converted into a mosque in the 1920s. Due to its former function, the building features a bell tower and clock, so it was named The Mosque of the Clock. 

Çınarlı Mosque is the most imposing building in the city and it has a beautiful façade, with mullioned windows and columns, it is clad in local sarımsak stone. Inside the mosque is in a Baroque style and has a cross-shaped layout with a dome above it because it was also originally built as a church.

Another fun excursion is to visit Cunda Island. You can reach this lovely little island by crossing the bridge or going by motorboat.  The natural environment on the island is very protected and there's an atmosphere of tranquillity here. The island has a rich historical and architectural heritage, with many historic buildings and archaeological sites that date back to the Bronze Age. Be sure to hike up a hill on the island, to see the panoramic views of the many bays and surrounding islands. We recommend that you find a fishermen's restaurant to taste the local seafood, olive oil and delicious appetizers. 

Ferries to Ayvalik

Netferry is the online booking site for ferries, it allows you to book your ticket to Ayvalik easily, quickly and safely. On the Netferry website, you can find all the information you need to book your ferry ticket. On the NetFerry ferry booking centre, you can find information on fares, offers, departure and arrival times and companies operating on the routes to and from Ayvalik. Visit the Netferry website or contact our dedicated customer service team on 0831564257 for an easy, fast and secure purchase.

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