Çeşme is known for its friendly locals, delicious cuisine and a slow pace of life, which makes it the perfect place to unwind. You'll fall in love with its beautiful alleys lined with quaint Turkish houses, traditional bazaars and mouth-watering food stalls.
Attractions in Çeşme
The town is home to Çeşme Castle, a historical gem that now houses a museum. Beach lovers must visit the Golden Sand Beach (Altinkum Plaji), while Ilıca Beach is famous for its thermal springs. Don't miss out on the Aqua Toy City, a popular water park that is a hit with kids and adults alike.
High-Season Events
Çeşme comes to life in the summer with the Çeşme Music Festival and is also known for its traditional camel wrestling tournaments in the winter.
Renting a Car in Çeşme
Renting a car in Çeşme offers a convenient way to explore the region at your own pace. Here's what you need to know:
Traffic Rules and Speed Limits
In Turkey, driving is on the right side of the road. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and the use of a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free device is prohibited.
Neighboring Cities and Routes
Hiring a car frees you up to explore surrounding cities such as Izmir and Alacati. The D300 highway, which runs parallel to the coast, offers stunning views on your drive.
Car Class Recommendations
Medium vehicles are optimal for Çeşme – they're good on fuel and offer the comfort needed for longer trips. For exploring smaller streets, smaller vehicles are more suitable.
Parking in Çeşme
Çeşme is quite tourist-friendly, offering a number of free parking areas. Be sure to check the signs as some areas may have time restrictions.
Practical Information
Here are some additional tips to help you enjoy your Çeşme vacation:
Currency
The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Many shops accept cards, but it's useful to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.
Climate
Çeşme has a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best time to visit is between April and October.
