Turkey’s west coast doesn’t garner as much admiration as the Mediterranean region but it still has a lot to boast about. In history, the lands have witnessed the clash of many ancient armies but fortunately these days, life is focused on a slow pace of living.

With an extensive collection of ancient ruins, sandy beaches, shopping opportunities and a good transport network, it is no surprise that it has become a top destination for expat living.

The most famous ruins in Turkey are found along the Aegean amongst quaint coastal resorts this is a popular coastline indeed.

The coast is lined by a succession of modern cities with palm-lined avenues its towns with old quarters are filled with beautiful turn of the 20th century neo-classical architecture, and ruins of what were once major powers of the Mediterranean in ancient times; all backed by fertile valleys and hillsides of which are dotted with picturesque villages and large olive gardens, which help to make Turkey one of the biggest producers of olive oil in the world. The Aegean is also producers of delicious honey and is aided by its favourable year-round climate. It’s no wonder that much of ancient art and philosophy, from Aristotle to Homer, were citizens of cities along this picturesque coastline.

The North Aegean

Miraculously this area has escaped mass tourism and the downfalls it brings so will suit anyone searching for the rural and traditional face of Turkey. Places such as the island of Bozcaada are respected for their wine industry while small towns like Assos which is a pleasant village with preserved architecture and the impressive Temple of Athena overlooking the Aegean. Ayvalik is a pleasant town in the north with distinctively Greek/neo-classical architecture everywhere. Both towns rely heavily on their fishing village roots the climate is milder than the south with olive groves in every village.

Most certainly the queen of the region though is Bergama. A short distance from the rural village ruins spread out over a large distance; reflect the history of the ancient city of Pergamon. Scholars and philosophers flocked to be part of this Hellenistic community that is famed for the invention of parchment paper.

Further down the coastline, are the Izmir and Aydin regions, home to the ancient ruins of the Seven Churches of Revelation, including the king of them all; Ephesus it was once the capital of Roman province of Asia Minor, now one of the Roman sites that are in best condition in the country and it is the second most visited attraction in Turkey. Ephesus library still exhibits much of its former glory, while many others are nothing more than a pile of collapsed marble columns at first sight, awaiting excavation. This is not their only asset though because all the surrounding coastal resorts attract masses of foreign holidaymakers and Turks, thanks to the sandy beaches and warm summer climate. Izmir and its vicinity are often visited due to its abundance of history and pretty seaside towns it’s Turkey’s third biggest city, and a beautiful coastal one it is undeniably the capital of the region.

Cesme is located on the westernmost tip of Turkey and Foca are havens for influential and wealthy Turks while Altinkum, also known as Didim has become a popular haunt for expat Brits. Meanwhile, the hard work of tourism agents in Kusadasi has prompted it to become a fully established and equipped cruise ship port. Just a 2-hour drive away is the Bodrum peninsula, which can possibly be credited with starting tourism in Turkey, thanks to the fisherman of Halicarnassus, who first laid out sailing routes of the Turkish Riviera. Denizli is an inland city serving as a hub to Roman sites such as Pamukkale, Hierapolis, and Aphrodisias in southeastern Aegean Region.

Lastly, we reach Datca which is mostly an unspoilt town with the nearby ancient city of Knidos is a tourist haven and the Marmaris peninsula is located here too, which over the years has grown to be a fully established city. Joining the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts in unison, it has an international atmosphere, thanks to English speaking locals and establishments of bars, restaurants and hotels selling the home comforts of many countries, like international cuisine.

Popular Areas for Property Investment

Bodrum: Known as a haunt for foreigners since the 1950s is a trendy resort with its very own castle, it’s a cosmopolitan city and the variety of apartments and villas for sale in Bodrum is diverse and immense. Many traditional, old houses are on the market for renovation while off-plan and new builds start in price from approximately £40,000. The peninsula is split into smaller resorts, each with their own style and character. Turkbuku attracts millionaire property investors, while Yalikavak has seen a rise in interest ever since the completion of the marina and Turgutreis has established its own expat community, thanks to its small village-like ambience. ( Property for sale in Bodrum, Turkey )

Kusadasi: Sitting close to Dilek National Park which is the wildest stretch of land on Turkish Aegean coast, with its lush forests, hiking trails, and desolate beaches, this is a great get-away from the hustle and bustle of the resorts. Foreign property investors in Kusadasi include many nationalities like Germans, Swiss and Brits. Unlike other resorts, the local council has always maintained excellent infrastructure and a good transport network with other destinations, therefore increasing its popularity. (Property for sale in Kusadasi, Turkey )

Altinkum: For many years, Altinkum was simply a small village often nicknamed the “poor man of Turkey” but it’s currently undergoing a number of changes including improved road conditions, major building work on the beachfront to bring it in line with regulations and efforts to promote its main historical landmark, the temple of Apollo. It is an ideal place for property investment because modern apartments and luxury villas are sold for some of the cheapest prices in Turkey. ( Property for sale in Altinkum, Turkey )

The Aegean Coast weather has a typical Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. Temperatures here can often rise above 86ºF (30ºC) in July and August and has 300 days of sunshine per year. Showers are unlikely in the summer months, there tends to be a little rain from November onwards, the winters are cool and mild and the sun often shines daily. The weather in Turkey not only makes you feel better it gives a sense of well-being, taking a stroll in the sunshine and eating Al fresco is something you cannot do often in Western Europe the weather is just too unpredictable and that is why many visitors invest in property on the Aegean especially.

The main airports that serve the Aegean coastline are Izmir, Bodrum and Dalaman which handle international flights as well as domestic flights. All the major coastal towns also have ferry links with the closest Greek island to them. Izmir is the major hub of the regions rail transport link. Getting around is made effortless with the local bus service called a Dolmus, these buses are both reliable and inexpensive, it’s a great way to get around either the local vicinity or if you wish to travel further afield. You don’t have to wait at a bus stop you can simply put your hand out and they will stop for you.

The Aegean Coast of Turkey offers beautiful coastlines, wonderful architecture, interesting ancient ruins, great weather, delicious cuisine, close proximity to the Greek Islands for those weekend away days and the area is served by no less than three international airports. The Aegean Coast is a very beautiful and popular part of Turkey.

Bodrum:
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Property for sale in Bodrum, Turkey

Kusadasi:
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Property for sale in Kusadasi, Turkey

Altinkum:
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Property for sale in Altinkum, Turkey

Akbuk:
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Aydin:
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Property for sale in Turkey:
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