Best Things to Do in Ayvalik, Turkey: Boat Tours, Islands & Cunda

Ayvalik is one of the most beautiful destinations on Türkiye's Aegean coast, combining islands, crystal-clear waters, historic streets, olive groves, beaches and traditional Aegean culture.

Located in Balikesir, Ayvalik is an ideal destination for travellers who want to experience the sea, explore historic coastal towns and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Aegean.

From a boat trip around the Ayvalik Islands to exploring Cunda Island and watching the sunset from Şeytan Sofrası, there are many ways to discover the region.

If you are planning a trip to the area, here are some of the best things to do in Ayvalik.

1. Take an Ayvalik Boat Tour

One of the best ways to discover Ayvalik is from the sea.

The Ayvalik Islands and surrounding coastline are home to beautiful bays, small islands and swimming spots that are difficult to experience fully from land.

A boat tour allows you to spend the day on the Aegean Sea, swim in clear waters, relax on board and discover different parts of the coastline.

For travellers looking for a more comfortable and personalized experience, a private boat trip can be an excellent option.

You can explore the available Ayvalik Tours & Boat Trips and choose an experience that suits your travel plans.

2. Explore Cunda Island

Cunda Island, also known as Alibey Island, is one of the most famous places to visit around Ayvalik.

The island is known for its historic stone houses, narrow streets, waterfront restaurants, cafés and Aegean atmosphere.

Visitors can spend several hours walking around the old streets, enjoying local food and exploring the island's historic character.

Cunda is also an important starting point for exploring the surrounding islands and bays by boat.

3. Visit Şeytan Sofrası

Şeytan Sofrası, or Devil's Feast, is one of the most famous viewpoints around Ayvalik.

Located on a hill overlooking the Aegean Sea, it offers panoramic views of Ayvalik, Cunda Island and the surrounding islands.

Sunset is one of the most popular times to visit because the coastline and islands are beautifully illuminated as the sun goes down.

For travellers interested in combining sightseeing with Cunda and Ayvalik, a private sightseeing experience can also include Şeytan Sofrası.

4. Discover Ayvalik Old Town

Ayvalik's historic centre is ideal for travellers who enjoy architecture, history and photography.

The town is known for its traditional stone buildings, historic churches, narrow streets and waterfront atmosphere.

Walking through the old town provides a different experience from spending the day at the beach or on a boat.

It is worth allowing time to explore the streets without rushing, stop for a coffee and discover some of the local shops and cafés.

5. Spend Time at Sarimsakli Beach

Sarımsaklı is one of the best-known beach areas around Ayvalik.

The long sandy coastline and clear Aegean waters make it a popular place for swimming and relaxing during the summer.

Travellers staying in Ayvalik or Sarımsaklı can easily combine a beach day with sightseeing around Cunda and Ayvalik.

6. Discover the Ayvalik Islands

The Ayvalik archipelago is one of the main reasons visitors come to the region.

The islands, bays and surrounding coastline create excellent opportunities for swimming, photography and boat trips.

Exploring the islands by boat also allows travellers to reach quieter areas away from the main beaches.

A private boat experience can be especially suitable for couples, families and small groups who want more flexibility during the day.

7. Enjoy an Aegean Lunch

Food is an important part of the Ayvalik experience.

The region is famous for its Aegean cuisine, olive oil, seafood and local flavours.

Depending on the tour you choose, a boat trip can include lunch with options such as fresh fish, chicken or meatballs, together with salad and other seasonal dishes.

Having lunch surrounded by the islands and sea makes the experience even more memorable.

8. Visit Ayvalik for Its Aegean Atmosphere

Ayvalik is not only about individual attractions.

Part of its appeal comes from the combination of the sea, historic architecture, olive trees, small islands and relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Visitors can spend the morning exploring the old town, visit Cunda Island during the afternoon and finish the day watching the sunset from Şeytan Sofrası.

Alternatively, a full day on the water can be spent swimming, exploring bays and enjoying an Aegean lunch.

Private Ayvalik & Cunda Experiences

Travellers who prefer a more personalized itinerary can choose a private Ayvalik and Cunda experience.

A private tour can combine Cunda Island, Ayvalik Old Town, Şeytan Sofrası and other scenic locations without the fixed pace of a large group tour.

Our Private Ayvalik & Cunda Tour is designed for couples, families and private groups who want to explore the region more comfortably.

For travellers who prefer spending the day on the sea, a Private Ayvalik Boat Tour offers the opportunity to discover islands, hidden bays and swimming spots.

Boat Tour or Sightseeing Tour in Ayvalik?

The best choice depends on the type of experience you want.

If you want to swim, relax and explore the islands, a boat tour is a great option.

If you are more interested in history, architecture and viewpoints, a private Ayvalik and Cunda sightseeing tour may be more suitable.

If you have enough time, combining both experiences can be an excellent way to see different sides of Ayvalik.

Best Time to Visit Ayvalik

The summer months are particularly popular for boat trips, swimming and beach activities.

Late spring and early autumn can offer a more relaxed atmosphere, while the warmer summer months are ideal for spending long days on the water.

Weather and sea conditions can affect boat itineraries, so it is always useful to check the conditions when planning a boat trip.

Why Visit Ayvalik?

Ayvalik brings together many of the things travellers look for in an Aegean destination:

• Beautiful islands and bays

• Clear Aegean waters

• Cunda Island

• Historic streets and architecture

• Şeytan Sofrası and sunset views

• Sarımsaklı Beach

• Fresh seafood and Aegean cuisine

• Olive groves and coastal landscapes

• Private sightseeing and boat experiences

The combination of these attractions makes Ayvalik a great destination for couples, families, friends and small groups.

Explore Ayvalik and the Aegean Coast

Whether you want to spend a day swimming around the Ayvalik Islands, walk through the historic streets of Cunda, watch the sunset from Şeytan Sofrası or enjoy an Aegean meal by the sea, Ayvalik offers a wide variety of experiences.

For travellers looking for a more personalized experience, private tours and boat trips provide an opportunity to explore the region at a comfortable pace.

Explore our Ayvalik Tours & Experiences and discover the islands, coastline and historic towns of one of Türkiye's most beautiful Aegean destinations.

Discover Ayvalik from land and sea and make the most of your Aegean journey.