A Day in Cesme: From Flower-Lined Streets to Ancient Walls

We started our day in Cesme with no real plan - just a walk through town. Right away, we noticed how pretty it was. The streets were spotless, lined with flowers spilling over fences and walls. Even when we wandered off the main path, it was still so clean and welcoming. Fruit trees seemed to pop up everywhere, and behind them, houses sat neatly tucked away, almost hidden by all the color and greenery. It gave the town this peaceful, lived-in charm that made us want to keep walking just to see what was around the next corner.

Of course, the big landmark here is Cesme Castle, so that was our next stop. Built in the early 1500s by the Ottomans, it once stood as the main defense for the town and the harbor. You can still see the cannons, the cannonballs, and those thick walls that made it such a strong fortress. Standing there, it’s easy to imagine what it must have felt like when this was the front line against attacks from the sea.

We climbed up to the highest point, and wow—the view was incredible. From the top, you can see the whole coastline and understand instantly why the castle was built here. If an enemy fleet was coming, there’s no way they’d sneak up on you. I’ll be honest though—the climb tested me. I’m not great with heights, and there were a few moments where I had to remind myself to keep moving. But once I made it up there, I was glad I did.

What surprised us most was how quiet it was. Unlike some castles or historic sites that are packed with visitors, Çeşme Castle felt calm, almost like it was just waiting for us to explore at our own pace...and we did just that. One of the benefits of a cruise with Azamara are the late in ports or overnights in ports, so here in Cesme we were in port from 8am to 10pm, giving us lots of time to take in the sights and not be rushed.

By the end of the day, Cesme left us with such a good impression - between the flowers, the fruit trees, the spotless streets, and that incredible glimpse into history, it’s a place that feels both beautiful and meaningful. On our way through town, we made a couple of stops. Our first, of course, was at the marina for a beer - sitting there watching the sailboats and powerboats come and go. We were impressed; they have a great system! Our second stop was for a piece of baklava… because you know it’s a must-have at each port!

Travel Tip

If you’re not comfortable with heights, take your time climbing the castle walls. It can be nerve-wracking, but the view (and the sense of history) makes it worth it.

For more photos of Cesme, visit https://tammydoucettephotography.com/cesme-turkey