Island Hopping in Turkey: The Aegean Coast's Best-Kept Secrets

We all know island hopping from Greece, Thailand, or Croatia. But the Turkish Aegean coast also has a fantastic collection of less crowded islands filled with the world's secrets. Scattered with turquoise seas, ancient ruins, and picturesque fish villages, they are the ultimate getaway from crowds.

While ferries and boat cruises link most of Turkey's islands, it is more convenient to take your own vehicle to explore the mainland at your leisure. For tourists arriving by air in cities such as Izmir, Bodrum, or Dalaman, car hire from Localrent, a local aggregator, gives the freedom to drive out to out-of-the-way harbors and less crowded ferry terminals before embarking on an unforgettable island-hopping tour.

1. Bozcaada – A Blending of Turkish and Greek Culture

A small enigmatic island off the coast of Çanakkale, Bozcaada has vineyards, whitewashed house walls, and centuries of history. A former Greek colony, its cobblestone streets and Aegean houses call visitors back to centuries of blending of Turkish and Greek cultures.

Top things to do in Bozcaada

• Ayazma Beach – A well-groomed beach with crystal clear water that is perfect for a cool bath.

• Bozcaada Castle – A groomed castle with majestic views of the island and the sea.

• Vineyard Tour – As the island has very good local wine, it is a must to go for wine tours.

Ferry boats of Bozcaada operate from Geyikli town, and driving there in the most convenient way is from Çanakkale.

2. Cunda Island – A Historic Treasure Close to Ayvalık

Only a short drive from Ayvalık is Cunda Island (Alibey Island), heaven for history buffs and seafood fans alike. A former Greek Orthodox village, the island boasts some of the most beautifully restored stone houses, charming harbourfront cafes, and fresh seafood restaurants serving some of the Aegean coast's best mezes.

Highlights of Cunda Island

• Taksiyarhis Church – Delightful 19th-century Greek Orthodox church now a museum.

• Devil's Table (Şeytan Sofrası) – Panoramic view with spectacular sunset vistas over the Aegean.

• Seaside Dining – Enjoy the famous grilled octopus and rakı at a seafront taverna.

Cunda is linked by a bridge of limited width and is therefore one of the easiest islands to get to by car.

3. Gökçeada – Turkey's Largest and Most Virgin Island

Gökçeada, Turkey's largest island, is a treasure. It differs from its more popular competitors in that it is not spoiled by mass tourism and has a more relaxed pace of life, breathtaking landscapes, and real island atmosphere.

Gökçeada Top Attractions

• Kaleköy Harbor – Quaint old fishing harbor with beautiful views and relaxed cafes.

• Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü) – Salt lake renowned for its therapeutic mud baths.

• Aydıncık Beach – Miles of sandy coastline ideal for swimming and windsurfing.

To get to Gökçeada, a ferry from Kabatepe can be used, which is easiest accessed by driving to it from Gallipoli or Çanakkale.

4. The Twelve Islands of Göcek – A Yachting Paradise

For sea island-hoppers, the Twelve Islands of Göcek is a lovely destination. Göcek lies between Dalyan and Fethiye and is said to be a popular sailing destination where there are numerous secluded bays as well as uninhabited islands.

Highlights of the Twelve Islands

• Tersane Island – It features clear water as well as remnants of the past and is perfect for history buffs.

• Cleopatra's Bath – An underwater Roman bath structure reportedly visited by Cleopatra herself.

• Bedri Rahmi Cove – A cove containing rock paintings done by Turkey's renowned artist Bedri Rahmi Eyüboğlu.

These islands can be reached by boat daily from Göcek Marina, a few minutes' drive from Dalaman Airport.

5. Kara Ada – Bodrum's Black Island

A short boat trip from Bodrum is Kara Ada, or Black Island. Kara Ada is famous for its hot mud baths and mineral water springs. Kara Ada has been a spa resort since the dawn of time, and most of the visitors strongly believe that its natural hot springs have healing properties.

Kara Ada Places of Interest

• Thermal Caves – Mineral, warm waters perfect for relaxation.

• Secluded Beaches – Quiet little beaches are perfect for a refreshing swim.

• Breathtaking Seaside Scenery – Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Bodrum coastline from the island's highest peaks.

It is feasible to visit Kara Ada on a short boat tour from Bodrum Harbour, and it is a great half-day tour.

Book Your Schedule in Advance

Some of them are islands that are connected by causeway or bridge, but some require ferry or boat travel to be accessed. Ahead of time ferry schedules will be checked, and this will ensure easier traveling.

Rent a Car for Easy Access to the Continent

All of the main island-hopping ports — Çanakkale, Ayvalık, and Göcek — are motorable. Localrent means that visitors can rent budget cars that easily travel up and down Turkey's shoreline.

Pack Smart but Light

Since some of the islands are not exactly bursting with facilities, it is a good plan to pack sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and cash, as some of the smaller islands won't even have ATMs.

Slow Down

Turkey's islands are all about living life in the slow lane, so take your time, enjoy leisurely meals by the sea, swim in hidden coves, and soak up the rich history of the region.

Island-hopping along Turkey's Aegean coastline is an adventure of a lifetime. Packed with classic Greek-style villages, untouched beaches, and secluded bays, these islands offer a combination of culture, activity, and relaxation. From wine in Bozcaada to swimming in Cleopatra's Bath to taking in a sunset on Cunda Island, each destination in this journey will take your breath away.

For tourists who want to go beyond the beaten tourist tracks in Turkey, Localrent car rental gives access to harbors, remote beaches, and off-the-beaten-track island ferry harbors. To have the freedom to drive along and along the Aegean coastline and island-hop on your own terms is the best way of absorbing the hidden gem of Turkey's off-the-beaten-track hideaways.