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Bozcaada island

Description

Bozcaada (or Tenedos in Greek history) is an island in the north-eastern part of the Aegean Sea, about 5km from the Turkish coast. Historically, it held an important strategic position at the entrance of the Dardanelles straits. It was ceded to Turkey as part of the Treaty of Lausanne in 1923 (which ended the Turkish War of Independence) and although it retained a large Greek population for a few decades, most emigrated in the 1960-70's because of systematic discrimination. The island is 40km2 and is known for its consistent wind; visitors will indeed be able to see several wind farms. Tourist highlights include the beaches, the food and wine, the charming streets of the old town, and the Castle (reviewed separately).

Access & Transport

Ferries operate every hour from Geyikli, Fri-Sun during the peak season and every 2h from Mondy to Thursday. Only 2-way tickets are sold. Geyikli is 50km southwest of Canakkale and in season there are direct buses from Istanbul, 350km/5h away.

Instructions & Recommendations

If you are planning on bringing your car onto the island during the summer season, make sure to book a ticket ahead of time as spaces are limited.

Meta review

The island is relatively unknown on the international scene but popular with Turkish holidaymakers. Based on online reviews, the beaches are the most popular attraction with Ayazma the default choice for many, with its crescent of sand and clean (and cold) water. There are sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, but many visitors find the price expensive. The main town is highly rated for its picturesque streets, variety of restaurants and good, affordable wine (local and Turkish bottles). The Polente Feneri area is also popular for its scenery, which includes windmills and a lighthouse, and its sunsets - not that everybody find the latter particularly special.

Environmental & Social

We deem this activity environmentally neutral (in spite of the ferry crossing) and marginally positive socially as it provides the local community with economic opportunities although this is partially negated by an increasingly mercantile behaviour.

Conclusion

The island is mostly patronized with national tourists who come here to enjoy the beaches and the relaxed atmosphere of the small town of Bozcaada. If you are in the Southern Marmara area and looking for a place to enjoy island life for a couple of days, this would be a strong contender.

Key positive

Nice towns with plenty of restaurants

Some gorgeous beaches

Key negative

Getting there can be a hassle and time consuming

Suitability

Good for families. Visitors with reduced mobility will find it difficult to navigate many of the sights without assistance. The town has many cobbled streets

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

May 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Ferries operate more frequently during the summer season and the crossing takes 35mins

av. transport time:1h 30m

est. visit time:5h

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightOk

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
TRY 50
Adult
12 - 64
TRY 100
Child
3 - 11
TRY 20
Infant
0 - 2
TRY 0
Price of return ticket on the ferry at the time of review. A car is >1100TL

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