Alaçatı

Written by Sebastien Simon, Javier Garcia
08/08/2025
Colorful café with flowers and traditional decor in Alaçatı, İzmir, Türkiye. Captures vibrant street life.
Fatmanur Koçak, Pexels

Alaçatı, nestled on Turkey's Aegean coast, is a charming town known for its well-preserved stone houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and a vibrant atmosphere. It attracts visitors seeking a blend of cultural immersion, relaxation on beautiful beaches, and active pursuits like windsurfing and kitesurfing.

The town's social scene revolves around its charming cafes and restaurants, particularly along Kemalpaşa Street, which offers a mix of boutiques and local shops. In the evenings, the Alaçatı Marina transforms into a lively hub with chic cafes and bars, providing opportunities to socialize amidst a vibrant nightlife, making it suitable for couples and groups of friends.

Top 5 Things to do in Alaçatı

Alaçatı offers a diverse range of experiences, from immersing oneself in local culture and historical charm to embracing exhilarating watersports and vibrant beach life.

1. Wander the Historic Old Town

Stepping into Alaçatı's old town feels like a journey through time, with its beautifully preserved stone houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and bursts of vibrant bougainvillea. It is truly the heart and soul of the village. Explore the charming boutiques offering unique handmade crafts and local products, discover art galleries, or simply find a cozy cafe to observe the daily rhythms of local life. The atmosphere is one of relaxed elegance, perfect for leisurely strolls and photography, particularly during the golden hour as the light softens the historic architecture.

Cost: Free to explore; costs vary for shopping and dining.

Transport: The old town is the central area of Alaçatı and is easily walkable from most accommodations within the town.

2. Experience Windsurfing or Kitesurfing

Alaçatı is recognized globally as a premier destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing, owing to its consistent strong winds and shallow, flat waters. Whether a seasoned enthusiast or a complete beginner, the conditions here are ideal for all skill levels. Numerous surf schools line the bay, offering professional lessons tailored to individual needs, often with the latest equipment available for rent. Even if one chooses not to participate, observing the colorful sails glide across the bay is a spectacle in itself.

Cost: Lessons and equipment rental costs vary by school and duration. Expect to pay for sessions or daily/weekly rentals. No self-serve options for equipment without prior experience/rental.

Transport: The main windsurfing and kitesurfing areas are located at Alaçatı Beach, a short distance from the town center. Local minibuses (dolmuş) frequently travel to the beach area. Taxis are also readily available.

3. Relax at a Beach Club

The Aegean coast near Alaçatı boasts a selection of beautiful beaches and lively beach clubs, offering a perfect blend of sun, sea, and entertainment. Ilıca Beach, known for its warm thermal waters and fine sand, provides a serene setting for swimming and sunbathing, suitable for families. For those seeking a more vibrant atmosphere, many beach clubs, particularly in Ayayorgi Bay or Çark Koyu, transform into lively hubs with music and dance, especially in the evenings. These clubs typically offer sun loungers, food, and drink services, providing a comfortable day by the sea.

Cost: Entrance fees to private beach clubs typically range from 250 to 750 TRY (as of 2024, subject to change), often including access to facilities. Public beaches like Ilıca Beach are free to access, but sunbed and umbrella rentals may incur a small fee.

Transport: Beaches and beach clubs are generally a short drive from Alaçatı town center. Public minibuses (dolmuş) are a frequent and economical option. Taxis are available but more expensive.

4. Explore the Alaçatı Saturday Market

Every Saturday, the streets of Alaçatı come alive with its renowned local market, a vibrant and bustling affair that offers a genuine taste of Aegean culture. This is the place to discover an extensive array of fresh local produce, aromatic spices, artisanal crafts, textiles, and unique souvenirs. It provides an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the local daily life, sample regional delicacies, and find distinct items to take home. Visiting early in the morning is recommended to avoid the crowds and the heat, ensuring a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Cost: Free to enter; costs vary for purchases.

Transport: The market is held within walking distance of the main town center of Alaçatı.

5. Visit the Alaçatı Windmills

Standing proudly on a gentle slope overlooking the town, the historic Alaçatı Windmills are iconic symbols of the region. These well-preserved structures, once used for grinding wheat, now serve as picturesque landmarks offering panoramic views of Alaçatı and the surrounding Çeşme Peninsula. It is a perfect spot for capturing memorable photographs, especially during sunset when the light casts a beautiful glow over the landscape. The area around the windmills has been thoughtfully restored, providing seating areas where one can simply relax and enjoy the scenic vistas.

Cost: Free to visit.

Transport: The windmills are located on the outskirts but within easy walking distance of Alaçatı's old town center.

Check out our other pages on Alaçatı

Getting There icon Getting There Restaurants icon Restaurants Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays

Discover destinations in Turkey

Black Sea Region
Central Anatolia
Eastern & Southeastern Anatolia
Marmara & North Aegean
South Aegean & Mediterranean