Search flights to Avsa adasi

Avşa Island is both one of the smallest Marmara Islands and one of the most popular tourist venues of Balıkesir. Historically a haven for exiled Christians, the holiday spot contains  ruins from the Byzantine and Roman periods. Its active nightlife and convenient location near Istanbul make it an attractive getaway for both Turks and foreigners. Vacationers enjoy the stunning raw beauty of long sandy beaches, crystal clear coves, rolling green hills, olive orchards and vineyards. On hot summer nights, the trendy Bar Street hosts a string of performances and dancing that last through the early morning hours. During the day, tourists can swim in the Marmara Sea and explore monasteries and other ancient remains scattered throughout the Village of Türkeli.

The modest island population of about 2,500 can mushroom to upwards of 100,000 in the summer months. In addition to tourism, the locals earn their living from fishing and olive, olive oil and wine production. Quaint restaurants serve up fresh fish and local wine, and little shops sell homemade olive products. Although a mild Mediterranean climate reins, the harsher conditions of the Black Sea occasionally take over. The summer months are quite hot, while the winter months tend to be cool and rainy. Though there is no airport on the island, sea buses from Istanbul to Avşa provide convenient access from the main land.