Bozcaada (ancient name Tenedos) is the 3rd biggest island in Turkey and the second largest on the Aegean after Gokceada.
With its small hotels run by families and locals; it is a small paradise with some of the most beautiful beaches of Turkey, the majestic castle which is not dated yet but most probably from Phoenician, Roman Empire or Venice; it’s always vivid port district and lighthouse. Herodotus, the famous “Father of History” who was from Aegean shore of Anatolia himself, says that the first settlement in Tenedos dates back to 3rd millennium BC.
The island has changed hands back and forth between the eastern and a western kingdom throughout the history due it is strategically located at the entrance of Dardanelles and finally was taken by the Ottomans in the 15th century.
It is a major tourist attraction for the Turkish people who want a little escapade from the metropolises. The island is well-known for its authentic lifestyle, crystal clear beaches, vineyards and wine with some cute little accommodation around for those seeking to escape the hustle & bustle of the city.
The harbor area is the most famous place with its hospitable environment and excellent seafood restaurants.
Annual harvest festivals are becoming trendier every year on the island and attracting a larger number of people who are most welcomed by the locals on Islanders.
What to Do in Bozcaada
- Taste the wine: the island has been famous for its vineyards since antiquity, and local grapes such as Kuntra and Çavuş are still grown and made into wine by the island’s wineries.
- Swim: Ayazma, Akvaryum and the other beaches on the south and west coasts have clear, cool water and fine sand.
- Watch the sunset at Polente: the lighthouse and the wind turbines on the western cape are the best place for the sunset.
- Explore the old town: the castle at the harbor, the old Greek quarter with its church, and the cafés where you should try the island’s tomato jam.
Getting There
Ferries cross to Bozcaada from the port of Geyikli (Yükyeri), about an hour south of Çanakkale, in less than an hour. The island is a perfect stop on a journey along the North Aegean, together with Troy, Assos and Gallipoli. In July and August, and on summer weekends, the ferries and the small hotels are busy, so we recommend booking early.
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