Things To Do
in Burhaniye
Burhaniye is a coastal town on the Aegean in Balıkesir Province, famed for its long sandy beaches and palm-lined promenades. It blends seaside relaxation with olive-grove countryside and easy access to Ayvalık’s archipelago. The town serves as a gateway to the Kaz Dağları foothills, offering a tranquil base for cultural strolls, boat trips, and day trips to nearby islands.
Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, friendly locals, and a laid-back pace that highlights the region’s natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Burhaniye's historic center. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh bread, olives, and cheeses. Visit the ancient ruins of the nearby city of Aigai, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the region.
After exploring Aigai, head back to the town center to visit the Burhaniye Archaeological Museum, showcasing artifacts from the area's fascinating past. For lunch, indulge in some local seafood at a waterfront restaurant, taking in the beautiful views of the Aegean Sea. Spend the afternoon wandering through the local artisan shops, picking up unique handmade souvenirs.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a beachside café to enjoy a refreshing drink while watching the waves. Later, savor a delicious dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant, trying dishes like kebabs and mezes. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the beach, listening to the sounds of the sea.
Start your day bright and early with a hearty breakfast before heading to one of Burhaniye's beautiful beaches. The soft sands and clear waters invite you to relax or partake in some water sports. Rent a kayak or paddleboard for a fun morning on the water, exploring the coastline and enjoying the scenic views.
After a morning of adventure, enjoy a beachside lunch at a local eatery, indulging in fresh seafood and traditional Turkish dishes. Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, or taking a refreshing swim in the Aegean Sea. If you're feeling adventurous, consider trying parasailing for an exhilarating view of the coastline.
As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset picnic on the beach with some local snacks and refreshments. Attend a beach bonfire organized by locals, where you can meet new friends and share stories. Finish the evening with a dip in the warm sea, under the starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1.5-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel night | $40-70 |
| 🧀Grocery item (basic) | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (small distance) | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful Aegean coastline with easy beach access
- Close proximity to Ayvalık, Cunda Island, and Kaz Dağları
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Excellent seafood and olive oil-based cuisine
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal crowds can affect parking and queues in peak months
- Some smaller businesses may prefer cash payments
- Public transport options are fewer outside peak tourist areas
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Neredesiniz?" - Where are you?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "İspanyolca konuşamıyorum" - I don’t speak Turkish
Places to Visit in Burhaniye
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over the calm Aegean with fishing boats and palm-lined promenades, ideal for serene seascapes.
Colorful boats, traditional architecture, and market activity creating vibrant compositions.
Green space with sea views, groves, and a vantage point for panoramic coastal photography.
Distant island silhouettes framed by olive groves and coastal hills for dramatic portraits.
Food in Burhaniye
Burhaniye Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly grilled sea bass with lemon, olive oil, and herbs; best enjoyed near the waterfront or at a sea-facing restaurant.
Must-Try!
Aegean specialty with potatoes, thinly sliced lamb or beef, yogurt, and tomato sauce, often served as a hearty, iconic regional dish.
Artichokes cooked in olive oil with lemon and herbs, served at room temperature as a light meze.
A selection of small dishes such as haydari, ezme, dolma, and tzatziki-inspired accompaniments, perfect for sharing.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where locals buy fresh produce, seafood, olives, cheese, and breads; a great place to sample seasonal snacks.
Fried mussels sold by street vendors or seaside stalls; a popular quick bite along the waterfront.
Fish sandwich made with freshly caught fish, served on a crusty roll with lemon and herbs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings such as Merhaba (hello) are standard; handshake is common, sometimes light cheek kisses among acquaintances in casual settings.
Modest dress in religious sites; remove shoes when required; show respect in mosques and during prayer times; avoid loud behavior in residential districts.
Turkish hospitality is strong; accept offerings when invited and politely decline if you’re not hungry or have dietary restrictions.
Safety
Tipping in Burhaniye
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common if service is satisfactory; cafes and street vendors may appreciate small tips. Always check if a service charge is included.
Cash (Turkish lira) is widely accepted; most places also accept credit/debit cards, but some smaller venues prefer cash, especially for street food or markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with long days; sunscreen, hats, and ample water are essential. Sea temperatures are pleasant for swimming, and evenings are cooling near the shore.
Mild days with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds; great for hikes in nearby hills and olive groves.
Mild to cool with occasional rain; many outdoor terraces close or reduce hours, but city centers stay active with cafes and bakeries.
Blooming landscapes and green hills; ideal for outdoor markets, coastal walks, and photography opportunities.
Burhaniye at Night
Hiking in Burhaniye
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested trails with pine and cedar, offering panoramic views over the Aegean and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Moderate coastal hikes with sea views, olive groves, and village scenery just a short drive from Burhaniye.
Airports
How to reach Burhaniye by plane.
Closest airport, about 70-100 km from Burhaniye; provides domestic flights and connections to Istanbul and Ankara via domestic carriers.
Major international airport about 150-180 km away; offers broad international and domestic flight options.
Smaller regional airport within a couple of hours’ drive; useful for some seasonal routes and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families and retirees who live year-round in Burhaniye, many involved in fishing, agriculture, and tourism.
Tourists and summertime residents who arrive for beaches, markets, and coastal scenery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed in local communities; casual leagues and school sports are common.
Swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling are popular along the coast and nearby coves.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Burhaniye.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Turkish vegetarian options abound: grilled vegetables, zeytinyağlılar (olive-oil dishes), lentil soups, and vegetable meze. Ask for olive oil-based preparations and avoid fish broths if needed.