Making the most of Cesme
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Cesme's dock has a central position close to the Tourism Information Office.
Take a printable map along with you.
On Turkey's far western tip, west of Izmir, Çeşme is a seaside resort and coastal town on the Aegean. Clear waters and attractive sandy beaches make it a popular holiday destination.
Cesme stands on a promontory at the end of the peninsula bearing its name. Medieval Cesme Castle dominates the town, while old Ottoman and Greek houses make its back streets rewarding for a relaxed stroll. South of the castle is an Ottoman caravanserai dating from 1528, now converted into a charming boutique hotel, and the Greek Orthodox church of Ayios Haralambos hosts the current art exhibition. Beyond historic sights, local pleasures include thermal baths followed by native fruits and artisan products...
Getting around
Cesme is straightforward to explore on foot.
Although not within Cesme, the ancient city of Ephesus is a favoured excursion. Its well-preserved remains include the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.
Taxis within town are inexpensive, regulated and easy to find. Drivers may charge above the meter for longer trips, however, so settle the price before setting off. Dolmus covers routes not served by buses; the name means "To Fill", and these minibuses, jeeps or vans leave once full. They fill quickly and can drop passengers anywhere along the route.
Nearby places
The Greek island of Chios lies directly opposite Çeşme, about an hour away by ferry. Fairly frequent sailings make a day trip possible: the ferry leaves Çeşme at 11AM, with the return from Chios at 5PM, or 4PM on Sundays.
Food and shopping
Restaurants, cafés and tea houses surround Cesme's main square, which also offers attractive sunset views over the Aegean Sea. The town's small fortress, restored as the local museum, overlooks the square, and the Sunday market is well worth visiting.
Money
Turkey uses the Turkish Lira. Foreign currency is accepted by many shops and restaurants in coastal resorts and large cities, but carrying some Turkish Lira is advisable when visiting elsewhere. Cash machines in convenient locations across cities, towns and resorts allow withdrawals in local currency by credit or debit card.
Staying connected
A few cafés offering customers free WiFi are located in the town centre.
Across Turkey, emergency numbers are 112 for an Ambulance and 155 for the Police.
Opening Hours and
Trading hours are flexible in tourist and coastal areas. In summer, many shops remain open late in the evening, seven days a week, letting visitors browse at leisure and avoid the heat of the day.