Excursion A taste of cunda island tour at Dikili

Turkish cuisine is often regarded as one of the greatest in the world and the focus during this tour will be on the Northern Aegean cuisine, especially of the area of Ayvalik and Cunda Island.

Ayvalik Town Walk and Taste

Travel approximately 45 minutes through typical Turkish countryside full of pine trees to reach Ayvalik town, which used to be an important trade center during the Ottoman times. The city at the time was almost completely inhabited by Greeks, who were exchanged with Turks from Crete when a population swap was mandated between governments of Turkey and Greece in 1923. Ayvalik's ancient name was Kydonia, while the name used today means 'the place of quince', although the city is rather known for its olive trees. Olives have been harvested in Ayvalik for ages and the olive oil production has been important to both the former Greek residents and the present Cretan 'immigrants' (who have been living in Ayvalik for at least three generations).

This naturally reflects heavily on the Cuisine of the area, making it a mixture of Turkish and Greek cultures prepared using an abundance of herbs and vegetables cooked in olive oil. On this excursion, you will get a chance to taste this delicious fusion of cultures during the approximately 1 hour long walk along the stone houses and narrow streets of Ayvalik, while sampling delicious products, such as olive oil, local goat cheese and mastic cookies.

Cunda Island Walking Tour

A brief 15-minute transfer will take you to the Island of Cunda, one of the nicest small islands on the Aegean Coast connected to the mainland through a small bridge.

Upon arrival, stop at Sevim and Necdet Kent Library, a former church and windmill, which was renovated to become a library, souvenir shop and café, with a beautiful view of the island and the sea. The library houses the political book collection belonging to Necdet Kent, a diplomat who put his life at risk to save the Turkish Jews during WWII.

Afterwards visit the island's main historical landmark, a 19th century church restored by the Rahmi M. Koç Museum and Culture Foundation to serve as a museum. Its beautiful interior has frescoes depicting the life of Jesus Christ and intricated marble designs.

Aegean Lunch

Following your approximately 30 minutes long exploration of Cunda on foot, arrive at a local fish restaurant for your Aegean lunch experience.

Time at Leisure

After lunch, enjoy some time at leisure to wonder around the town independently, try a Turkish coffee and browse for souvenir, before your 45-minute drive back to the port.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Ayvalik Town, Cunda Island, local lunch, local produces.

Note

Please note: This excursion involves a moderate amount of walking over slight inclines and cobbled stoned streets, with a few steps to negotiate to embark/disembark the bus. This tour is not wheelchair accessible. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection from the ship. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages.