Wandering Through Çeşme, Turkey: A Hidden Gem on the Mediterranean

Our Azamara Mediterranean cruise brought us to the charming port of Çeşme, Turkey, and it turned out to be one of those destinations that quietly takes your breath away. It’s not the biggest port on the itinerary or the most talked about, but from the moment we stepped ashore, we knew this place was special.

We started our day with a simple plan - just walk, wander, and see where the streets would lead us. Çeşme is the kind of town that doesn’t rush to impress you. It draws you in slowly, with narrow streets that wind between flower-draped walls and neatly kept homes tucked behind fruit trees. The first thing we noticed was how clean everything was. Every corner, even off the beaten path, looked cared for. Bougainvillea spilled over stone fences, lemon trees leaned out over walkways, and the air carried that soft sweetness of salt, fruit, and summer.

As we wandered toward the marina, we couldn’t resist making our first stop. We found a waterfront café, ordered a couple of cold beers, and sat watching the boats drift in and out. The marina buzzed with quiet activity - sailboats coming home from the Aegean, sleek powerboats heading out for the day. Everything seemed to run like clockwork. The dockhands, the captains, even the seagulls seemed to know their part in the rhythm of this coastal town.

From there, our sweet tooth took over. A few streets back from the waterfront, we found a little bakery that smelled like pure heaven. Naturally, we had to stop for a piece of baklava - because in Turkey, it’s practically a requirement at every port. Warm, flaky, dripping with honey and crushed pistachios - it didn’t last long.

The Heart of History: Çeşme Castle

Eventually, our wandering brought us to Çeşme Castle, standing tall over the town like a proud guardian from centuries past. Built in 1508 during the reign of Ottoman Sultan Bayezid II, this stone fortress once protected Çeşme from seaborne attacks - most famously during the Russo-Turkish War in 1770, when the Battle of Çeşme raged nearby.

As we entered through its heavy wooden gates, we were immediately drawn to the history echoing through its halls. The castle’s thick walls and sturdy towers were built for defense, and you can still see the cannons and stacks of cannonballs that remind visitors this wasn’t just for show - it was once the town’s lifeline.

We took our time exploring every corner. From the lower courtyards to the higher battlements, each step seemed to tell a story. And then came the climb - up narrow stone steps to the very top of the fortress. The view was worth every heartbeat. From that vantage point, the turquoise water of the Mediterranean Sea stretched endlessly, dotted with white sails gliding across the horizon. You could see the entire coastline, the red-tiled roofs of the town below, and even the outline of the Greek island of Chios across the water.

It’s easy to understand why this spot was chosen for a fortress—you can see an approaching fleet long before it reaches shore. Standing there, it wasn’t hard to imagine soldiers centuries ago keeping watch, scanning the sea for danger.

Now, though, Çeşme Castle is calm and peaceful. It’s beautifully preserved and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s a small museum inside with archaeological finds and maritime relics that tell more of Çeşme’s story - from ancient civilizations to Ottoman days. What really surprised us, though, was how uncrowded it was. Unlike some historic landmarks that feel rushed or overrun, this one felt personal, like it was waiting just for us...Then again, we were the only cruise in port... 

Travel Tip

If you’re afraid of heights, as I am, the climb to the top can be a little nerve-racking. The steps are steep and the ledges open—but the view from the top is unforgettable. Take your time, hold the rail, and don’t look down until you’re ready. Trust me, it’s worth it.

A Town That Feels Alive

Back down in town, we kept walking, taking in the rhythm of local life. There’s something about small Mediterranean ports like Çeşme that just feels different—less hurried, more genuine. Locals stopped to chat with one another in shop doorways, kids zipped by on bikes, and every little street seemed to lead to another cozy café or courtyard bursting with color.

We passed stands selling figs and olives, souvenir shops filled with hand-painted ceramics, and open-air restaurants where the smell of grilled seafood drifted into the breeze. It’s not a place where you feel like a tourist. It’s a place where you feel welcome.

For Azamara guests, Çeşme is a dream stop. Because Azamara sails smaller ships, the port experience is intimate—you’re not fighting crowds or waiting in long lines to get ashore. You just step off the ship and you’re right there in the middle of town, free to explore at your own pace. And that’s the beauty of small-ship cruising—it lets you linger.

By the end of the day, we found ourselves back at the marina, sitting with another drink, watching the sun start to dip low over the water. The air was soft and golden, the kind of moment that makes you forget what time it is. The castle stood silhouetted against the glow, and it struck me how perfectly this little town balances history and charm.

Why Çeşme Stands Out

If you ever find yourself cruising the Mediterranean with Azamara, don’t overlook Çeşme. It might not have the instant name recognition of Santorini or Mykonos, but that’s part of its magic. It’s a place that feels untouched by mass tourism—a blend of history, local life, and that unmistakable Turkish hospitality.

Whether you’re climbing ancient castle walls, savoring a piece of baklava, or just wandering streets lined with flowers and fruit trees, Çeşme captures everything that makes Turkey so special. It’s a town that quietly wins your heart and leaves you already planning a return visit.

Travel Tip

Wear good shoes—those cobblestone streets can get slippery, especially around the castle. And bring your camera; between the flowers, the boats, and that stunning view from the top, Çeşme is as photogenic as it gets.

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