Ilıca

Ilıca is built around the beach. Its long stretch of sand and shallow water make it especially appealing for swimming, slower beach days and family trips. The sea stays relatively shallow close to shore, which is one of the main reasons the area is so popular during summer.

The other defining feature of Ilıca is its thermal water. Warm springs emerge close to the coast and have been associated with the area for generations, giving Ilıca a different character from Çeşme’s purely seasonal beach districts.

Its location between central Çeşme and Alaçatı is another advantage. You can spend the day by the sea and still reach either area easily for dinner or an evening out. Hotels and smaller accommodation options are concentrated around the beachfront and the main roads running through the area.

Most days in Ilıca revolve around the beach rather than sightseeing. Mornings are usually the easiest time for a quieter swim, while the shoreline becomes much busier as the day goes on in July and August. Wind can also change sea conditions, so it is worth checking the forecast if calm water is important to you.

Ilıca has a more relaxed evening scene than Alaçatı and is better suited to travellers who want to stay close to the beach rather than nightlife. Below you can explore the places, stays and guides we currently feature in and around Ilıca.