Cunda (Alibey) Island - Image 1

Cunda Island (Alibey Island)

4.5
·5k reviews·, Türkiye

A historic Greek island gem in Turkey, Cunda (Alibey) enchants with cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and stunning Aegean sunsets.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring and Winter

Peaceful and serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Cunda (Alibey) Island - Image 1

Cunda Island (Alibey Island)

Best Time

Spring and Winter

Peaceful and serene atmosphere

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Greek island gem in Turkey, Cunda (Alibey) enchants with cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and stunning Aegean sunsets.

4.5
(5k reviews)

"It has an authentic Greek village air which actually was a Greek settlement before WW1."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Sunset Views

Head to Aşıklar Hill for breathtaking sunset vistas. Don't miss the historical library there!

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The best way to experience Cunda's charm is by wandering its narrow, historic streets. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Aşıklar Hill (Lovers' Hill)

Aşıklar Hill (Lovers' Hill)

Aşıklar Tepesi

Panoramic island views, especially magical at sunset. Features a historical city library.

Sevim & Necdet Kent Library

Sevim & Necdet Kent Library

Former Agios Yannis Chapel

A historic chapel transformed into a library, showcasing the island's layered past.

Charming Stone Streets

Charming Stone Streets

Throughout the island

Wander through narrow, cobblestone lanes lined with traditional Greek houses and boutique shops.

Güvercin Adası (Dove Island)

Güvercin Adası (Dove Island)

Off the coast of Cunda

Explore the ruins of Agios Yorgis Monastery on this small island, once a sanctuary.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Island Charm

Cunda Island (Alibey Island) offers a delightful escape with its historic Greek architecture and charming streets. While it's a popular spot, visiting outside peak summer months can offer a more serene experience. Plan for leisurely strolls and savoring local flavors.

Getting There & Around

Accessing Cunda Island is typically done via Ayvalık. Buses from Istanbul take around 8 hours, while driving is about 5 hours.Reddit Once on the island, walking is the best way to explore its narrow, picturesque streets.

Best Times

When
Spring and Winter
Why
Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
After September
Why
Best sea and island enjoyment
Crowd
Medium
When
April
Why
Pleasant for exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cunda Island, also called Alibey Island, Greek Moschonisi, is the largest of the Ayvalık Islands archipelago in Turkey, which was historically called the Εκατόνησα or Μοσχονήσια archipelago in Greek. #cundaislandturkey #andabeachhotel #andabeach #andabeachside #cundaturkey #mydubai #dubaitravelblogger #dubaitravelblog #traveltips #traveltipster #cabincrew #kabinmemuru #cabincrewdubai #cabincrewlif...
exotic_stewardess
61 likes • 3.3K views

🌅 Sunset Views

Head to Aşıklar Hill for breathtaking sunset vistas. Don't miss the historical library there! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The best way to experience Cunda's charm is by wandering its narrow, historic streets. :athletic_shoe:

Aşıklar (Lovers) Hill on Alibey (Cunda) Island offers panoramic viewpoints to its visitors. 😍 🤩 Don’t forget to visit the hill, which houses a historical city library, especially at sunset! 🌄 🏛 #GoBalıkesir #Balıkesir #AşıklarTepesi #Culture #History
gobalikesir
321 likes • 5.8K views
📍Ayvalık Cunda Adası Sevim ve Necdet Kent Kitaplığı 📚 Sevim ve Necdet Kent Kitaplığı, Rahmi M. Koç Müzecilik ve Kültür Vakfı bünyesinde faaliyet göstermektedir. 2007 yılında Balıkesir’in Ayvalık ilçesine bağlı Alibey (Cunda) Adası’nda hizmete açılmıştır. Kütüphane binası olarak kullanılan tarihi Agios Yannis şapeli ve bitişiğindeki büyük yel değirmeni 15. yüzyılda inşa edilmiş önemli bir manastır...
gezen_tarih
0 likes • 1.3K views

🍽️ Savor Local Flavors

Enjoy delicious seafood and local specialties at the island's many restaurants and cafes. :knifeforkplate:

🛍️ Unique Souvenirs

Browse charming shops for local crafts, olive oil products, and unique souvenirs. :shopping_bags:

Yeni videomuz yayında, iyi seyirler. #cunda #cundaadası #alibey #ada #island #ayvalık #balıkesir #youtube #travel #gezi #vlog #egedebirmösyö
egedebirmosyo
34 likes • 448 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Sunset Views

Head to Aşıklar Hill for breathtaking sunset vistas. Don't miss the historical library there! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The best way to experience Cunda's charm is by wandering its narrow, historic streets. :athletic_shoe:

🍽️ Savor Local Flavors

Enjoy delicious seafood and local specialties at the island's many restaurants and cafes. :knifeforkplate:

🛍️ Unique Souvenirs

Browse charming shops for local crafts, olive oil products, and unique souvenirs. :shopping_bags:

📸 Capture the Charm

The colorful buildings and historic architecture make for stunning photo opportunities. :camerawithflash: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Cunda Island is widely praised for its authentic Greek village charm, historic stone streets, and beautiful waterfront. Visitors love the delicious seafood, unique local treats, and stunning sunset views from Aşıklar Hill. While it has become more developed and can be expensive, it retains its Mediterranean allure.

"Cunda AKA Alibey island is a very nice place to spend some vacation or just an evening for dinner or stroll for shopping for knick knacks. İt has grown exceptionally in the last few years and became very expensive along the way. The place has an authentic Greek village air which actually was a Greek settlement before WW1. Having been grown up in Ayvalık İ remember this place as a place where we used to come for swimming and getting just a cup of tea in the cafés along the waterfront. Now of course it is nearly unrecognizable with all the development of villas and commercial establishments like hotels and restaurants. Still despite this, it still keeps that charm of authentic Mediterranean small village atmosphere. A definite place to spend some time if you don't mind the crowds and expensive fish restaurants with some gerek music as a bonus."

HaSan AkAy

"definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. lovely restaurants and cafes. great bays and beautiful sun sets!"

Dudu

"Cunda Island is a beautiful and peaceful getaway where history and nature come together. Its charming stone streets, historic Greek houses, and seaside cafés create a magical atmosphere. Perfect for those looking to relax, enjoy delicious food, and take in stunning sunset views. A true hidden gem in the Aegean."

Ferhat Yaban

What People Like

Authentic Greek charm
Historic stone streets
Beautiful sunset views

What People Dislike

Can be expensive
Crowded in summer

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way is by bus to Ayvalık, which takes about 8 hours.Reddit From Ayvalık, you can easily reach Cunda Island (Alibey Island) by a short ferry or by car/taxi. Driving yourself is an option if you prefer, taking around 5 hours.Reddit

Yes, Cunda Island is quite walkable. Its charm lies in its narrow, historic streets, making it ideal for exploring on foot. :athletic_shoe:

You can take a short ferry ride from Ayvalık to Cunda Island, which is a pleasant way to arrive. Alternatively, taxis and local buses are readily available for a quick transfer.

While you can rent cars in Ayvalık, it's generally not necessary for exploring Cunda Island itself, as it's best experienced on foot. Parking can also be challenging.

While possible, it's a very long day trip due to the travel time. Many visitors prefer to stay overnight in Ayvalık or on Cunda Island to fully enjoy its atmosphere.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Cunda Island itself is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander its streets and enjoy the atmosphere. Some specific attractions like museums might have entry fees.

Opening hours can vary, especially for historical sites and museums like the Sevim & Necdet Kent Library. It's best to check locally or online for the most up-to-date information, particularly outside of peak tourist season.

Aşıklar Hill is generally accessible without a fee, allowing visitors to enjoy the panoramic views and the historical city library. However, it's always good to confirm locally.

Yes, Cunda Island can get quite crowded during the summer months.Instagram For a more peaceful experience, consider visiting in the spring or autumn.

While not as widely publicized as larger cities, Cunda Island may host local events or festivals, especially during the summer. Keep an eye on local announcements for any cultural happenings.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss Aşıklar Hill for sunset views,Instagram the historic Sevim & Necdet Kent Library,Instagram and simply wandering the charming stone streets.Instagram+1 Güvercin Adası (Dove Island) with its monastery ruins is also worth exploring.Instagram

Expect a charming, authentic Mediterranean village atmosphere with historic Greek houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and a relaxed vibe. It retains its historical character despite development.Reddit

Absolutely! The colorful buildings, historic architecture, and scenic waterfront provide endless opportunities for beautiful photographs. Instagram

Activities include exploring historical sites, enjoying local cuisine at waterfront cafes and restaurants, shopping for souvenirs, and taking in the scenic views, especially at sunset.

Yes, with its charming streets, beautiful sunsets, and intimate cafes, Cunda Island is a wonderful destination for couples seeking a romantic escape. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You should definitely try local seafood, olive oil-based dishes, and traditional Aegean mezes. Don't miss out on unique treats like 'ada lokması' (island fritters) and mastic-flavored ice cream or cookies.Instagram

Yes, Cunda Island is known for its excellent seafood restaurants, many offering waterfront dining. While they can be a bit expensive, the quality is generally high.Reddit

You'll find numerous charming cafes, often referred to as 'taş kahve' (stone coffee house), where you can enjoy traditional Turkish coffee and tea while soaking in the island's ambiance.Instagram

While some of the waterfront restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options by exploring the side streets or opting for simpler cafes and local eateries. Trying local gözleme or simit can be a budget-friendly choice.

Beyond seafood, look for dishes featuring local olive oil, 'buzlu badem' (iced almonds), and unique pastries or desserts like those flavored with mastic or local fruits.Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The narrow, colorful streets with traditional Greek houses are perfect for capturing the island's essence.Instagram+1 Aşıklar Hill offers stunning panoramic views, especially at sunset.Instagram The waterfront and historic buildings also provide great subjects.

Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography. Sunset from Aşıklar Hill is particularly recommended.Instagram Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant colors of the buildings still make for great shots.

Focus on the well-preserved traditional Greek houses with their stone facades, colorful shutters, and charming balconies. The historic churches and windmills also add to the photographic appeal.Instagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both street scenes and wider vistas. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the narrow streets. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing colors and reducing glare on the water.

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the tourism office regarding any restrictions on flying drones over residential areas or historical sites to ensure compliance.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cunda Island offers a charming and relatively safe environment for families. The pedestrian-friendly streets are great for little ones to explore without the worry of heavy traffic.Instagram While there aren't dedicated playgrounds, the novelty of the old houses and the chance to spot boats can keep children entertained. Consider a ferry ride from Ayvalık as a fun start to the adventure. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as some cafes might be pricier for quick bites.

💰 Budget Travelers

While Cunda Island has a reputation for being a bit expensive, especially for dining, budget travelers can still enjoy its charm. Opt for local eateries or 'gözleme' stands for more affordable meals. Enjoying the island's beauty, like the sunset from Aşıklar Hill Instagram and wandering the streets, is free. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring/autumn) for potentially lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds.Instagram

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Cunda Island is an idyllic destination for couples. The intimate atmosphere of the stone streets, the romantic sunsets from Aşıklar Hill,Instagram and the charming waterfront cafes create a perfect setting for a getaway. Enjoy leisurely strolls hand-in-hand, share delicious meals at local restaurants, and soak in the peaceful ambiance. Staying overnight allows for a more immersive and romantic experience.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Cunda's History

Cunda Island, also known as Alibey Island, boasts a rich history, originally being a significant Greek settlement named Moschonisi.Instagram For a long time, it was a prosperous island due to its production of olives, oil, and wine. This historical Greek influence is still evident in the island's architecture, with many charming stone houses and former churches dotting the landscape.Instagram

The island's past is also marked by its religious sites. The ruins of Agios Yorgis Monastery on Güvercin Adası (Dove Island) are a testament to its spiritual heritage, with legends of it being a place for cleansing sins.Instagram The Sevim & Necdet Kent Library, housed in the former Agios Yannis Chapel, beautifully preserves this historical layering, transforming a sacred space into a cultural hub.Instagram

While the island has seen development, particularly in recent years with new villas and commercial establishments, it has managed to retain much of its authentic Mediterranean village charm. This blend of history and modern tourism makes Cunda a unique destination, offering visitors a tangible connection to its past.

Experiencing Cunda's Culinary Delights

Cunda Island is a paradise for food lovers, especially those who appreciate fresh seafood and traditional Aegean cuisine. The island's restaurants, many with picturesque waterfront settings, offer a delightful dining experience. Expect a focus on locally sourced ingredients, particularly olive oil, which is a staple in the region.Instagram

Beyond the well-known seafood dishes, be sure to explore the unique local specialties. 'Ada lokması' (island fritters) are a must-try sweet treat, and the island is also known for its mastic-flavored products, including cookies and ice cream.Instagram 'Buzlu badem' (iced almonds) are another refreshing local snack perfect for a warm day.Instagram

For a truly authentic experience, seek out the 'taş kahve' (stone coffee houses) scattered throughout the island. Here, you can savor traditional Turkish coffee or tea, often accompanied by local pastries, and soak in the relaxed island atmosphere. Instagram While some restaurants can be on the pricier side, especially those serving fish, exploring the side streets can reveal more budget-friendly options.

Capturing the Visual Magic of Cunda

Cunda Island is a photographer's dream, offering a rich tapestry of colors, textures, and historical charm. The narrow, winding cobblestone streets, lined with traditional Greek houses featuring stone facades and vibrant shutters, are incredibly photogenic.Instagram+1 The play of light and shadow in these alleys creates a unique atmosphere, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.

Aşıklar Hill (Lovers' Hill) provides a breathtaking vantage point for panoramic shots of the island and the surrounding sea.Instagram Capturing the sunset from here is a highly recommended experience, painting the sky with warm hues that complement the island's architecture. The waterfront area, with its cafes and boats, also offers picturesque scenes, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon light.

When photographing Cunda, pay attention to the details: the intricate stonework, the colorful bougainvillea cascading over walls, and the charming doorways. The historic buildings, like the Sevim & Necdet Kent Library Instagram and the ruins on Güvercin Adası,Instagram add layers of historical narrative to your visual storytelling. A versatile lens and a good eye for detail will help you capture the enduring beauty of this Aegean gem.

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