As you explore the historic city of Evırı, you will uncover hidden gems around every corner. Nestled in the foothills of the Taurus Mountains in southern Turkey, Evırı offers a vibrant culture, stunning natural scenery, and a wealth of ancient architecture. Once a key stop on the Silk Road, Evırı has been influenced by Persian, Arabic and Roman civilizations, with traces of each reflected in the city’s art, religion, and cuisine. A stroll through the cobblestone streets transports you back in time as you pass traditional Ottoman houses, mosques with elegant minarets, and the ruins of a Roman amphitheater. The city is also a gateway to nearby archeological wonders like the ancient city of Perge. Whether you seek adventure, culture, or natural beauty, Evırı promises delights for all the senses. Lose yourself in the layers of history and hospitality of this charming city. A visit to Evırı will create memories that last long after you return home.
An Introduction to the Charming Town of Evırı
The picturesque town of Evırı is situated on the Aegean coast of Turkey, approximately 50 miles south of İzmir. This charming seaside destination has a population of just over 5,000 inhabitants and is renowned for its natural beauty, historic sites, and relaxed ambiance.
Evırı’s location on a sheltered bay overlooking dozens of small islands makes it an idyllic getaway. The town center, called Kordonboyu, hugs the waterfront and is lined with seafood restaurants, cafés, and souvenir shops. Meander through the cobblestone streets to discover Ottoman-era mosques and traditional Turkish houses. For panoramic vistas, climb to the ruins of Evırı Castle on the acropolis.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Evırı’s temperate climate. Opportunities abound for swimming, boating, hiking, and bird watching. Just off the coast lie secluded coves and beaches with azure waters. Take a boat tour to explore the picturesque islets and secluded bays along the bay. Or hike through fragrant pine forests to scenic viewpoints in the hills above town.
When dusk falls, wander the waterfront promenade and watch the sunset paint the sky in brilliant hues of pink and orange. As the light fades over the sea, Evırı’s simple pleasures come to the fore. Let the cares of everyday life fade into the night and delight in this magical place. A visit to enchanting Evırı will create cherished memories to last a lifetime.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Evırı
To experience the best Evırı has to offer, here are the top 5 things you must see and do:
Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus
Ephesus is one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the Mediterranean with a history spanning over 1000 years. Walk the marble streets, see the magnificent Library of Celsus and Great Theater, and imagine what life was like during Roman times. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a glimpse into the ancient world not to be missed.
Visit the House of the Virgin Mary
For Christian visitors, the House of the Virgin Mary near Ephesus is a place of pilgrimage. According to Catholic tradition, St. John brought the Virgin Mary to Ephesus where she spent her last days. The stone house, now a chapel, is a serene place of worship and reflection.
See the Đsa Bey Mosque
This elegant mosque in Selçuk showcases some of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture. Completed in 1375, it features a domed central hall, minaret, and decorative tile work. For a small entrance fee, you can tour the mosque, climb the minaret, and get panoramic views of the town.
Shop at the Evırı Bazaar
The Evırı Bazaar in Selçuk is a great place to shop for souvenirs like leather goods, carpets, spices, and handicrafts. Open daily, you’ll find rows of stalls selling everything from pashminas and pottery to dried fruits and Turkish delight. Haggling is expected, so bargain for the best deals.
Relax on Evırı Beach
After exploring historical sites, head to Evırı Beach to unwind. This long stretch of sand along the Aegean coast offers beach chairs, umbrellas, and opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and other watersports. As the sun sets over the sea, enjoy a drink or meal at one of the many beachfront cafes. A perfect end to a perfect day!
The Best Restaurants and Cafes in Evırı
The Best Restaurants and Cafes in Evırı
Evırı is a food lover’s paradise, with cuisine influenced by Greek, Anatolian and Mediterranean flavors. Some of the best places to sample the local fare are:
Café Kahvaltı. This casual cafe is ideal for breakfast or brunch. They offer a variety of menemen (scrambled eggs), gözleme (flatbread stuffed with fillings like spinach and cheese), and kaymak (clotted cream) with honey. The atmosphere is relaxed and the prices are very affordable.
Asmalı Konak. For an upscale dining experience, Asmalı Konak is a great choice. They serve refined Anatolian cuisine with Ottoman influences in an elegant space. Some highlights of the menu include lamb shanks braised in pomegranate juice, sea bass in grape leaves, and kunefe, a sweet cheese pastry. Reservations are recommended, especially if dining on the charming outdoor terrace.
Çiğ Köfteci Kadir Usta. This popular spot specializes in çiğ köfte, raw meatballs made of lamb, bulgur and spices. The köfte are grilled and served in a lavaş wrap with an array of garnishes like parsley, onions, lemon and chili pepper. It’s a very casual establishment, but the quality of the food attracts both locals and tourists.
For a pick-me-up or casual meetup with friends, check out the cafes along Cumhuriyet and Kadınlar streets. Sip Turkish coffee or tea while people watching, or enjoy a snack like börek (filled pastry), poğaça (Savory pastry) or baklava (sweet pastry with nuts and honey). The cafe culture in Evırı invites leisurely conversations and hours of relaxation.
Whether you seek fine dining or a quick bite, the culinary options in Evırı will delight your taste buds and provide lasting memories. The hospitable service and ambiance at these establishments exemplify the welcoming spirit of this charming city.
Where to Stay: Evırı’s Most Charming Hotels and Guesthouses
Evırı offers charming accommodations to suit any taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious escape or a cozy family-run pension, you’ll find the perfect place to call home during your stay.
Boutique Hotels
For an upscale experience, consider one of Evırı’s boutique hotels. The Ardıç Tree House features private tree house rooms with stunning views of the valley. The Kaya Palas, a historic stone mansion, offers lavish rooms decorated with local textiles and wood accents. The Tevfikiye Konağı, once an Ottoman governor’s mansion, combines period details with modern amenities like spa tubs and Wi-Fi.
Family-Run Pensions
Some of Evırı’s most delightful places to stay are the family-run pensions that dot the hillsides. These guesthouses, like the Çınar Pansiyon and Karagöz Pansiyon, are located in restored wooden houses and offer simple but spotless rooms along with home-cooked meals. The friendly owners are happy to share recommendations and help you experience authentic village life. For budget travelers, the pensions provide an affordable way to enjoy Evırı’s natural and cultural attractions.
Vacation Rentals
If you prefer extra privacy and independence, consider renting a villa or cottage. Choices include secluded stone cottages, villas with private pools, and multi-room houses perfect for groups. Self-catering rentals equipped with full kitchens allow you to cook with fresh local ingredients from the market and enjoy leisurely meals al fresco while taking in the stunning scenery. Some rentals also provide concierge services to help organize activities and excursions.
With its varied landscape encompassing forests, valleys, and the Aegean coastline, Evırı offers the ideal natural setting for a relaxing getaway. Combined with the area’s historical and cultural attractions, a stay at one of Evırı’s charming hotels, pensions or vacation rentals will allow you to discover all the delights this destination has to offer.
How to Get to Evırı and Getting Around Town
Getting to the town of Evırı and navigating within it is straightforward. Located in northwestern Turkey, Evırı is accessible via several modes of transportation.
By Air
The closest airport is Çanakkale Airport, situated 65 kilometers (40 miles) from Evırı. Budget airlines offer direct flights to Çanakkale from Istanbul and Ankara. From the airport, you can take a shuttle, bus or taxi to Evırı. The trip takes around 45 minutes.
By Bus
Evırı’s main bus station has frequent bus service from major cities like Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir. The bus ride from Istanbul to Evırı is around 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic. Busses depart from Istanbul’s Esenler bus station.
Once in Evırı, the town center is compact and walkable. However, if you want to venture further, minibusses and taxis offer convenient options.
Minibusses
Minibusses travel between neighborhoods and to nearby towns. Fares are affordable. Routes and timetables can be found at major stops like the bus station, but service is frequent from early morning until late evening.
Taxis
Taxis can be hailed on the street or found at taxi stands. Fares are metered and reasonably priced. Taxis offer a convenient way to reach attractions outside the town center like the Evırı Waterfalls or hiking trails. For longer excursions, you can hire a taxi for a flat rate.
Between the multiple transportation options to reach Evırı and get around the area once there, you’ll find it easy to discover all the delights this charming town has to offer. Spend a few days exploring Evırı’s history, culture, cuisine and natural scenery. You won’t regret it!
Conclusion
As you have discovered, evırı has much to offer visitors with an appetite for adventure. From navigating the bustling bazaars to hiking through the rugged mountain trails, opportunities abound in this charming region. Though often overlooked in favor of more well-known destinations, evırı deserves a spot at the top of your bucket list. The natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness found here create an experience unlike any other. As the sun sets over the ancient ruins and you reflect on the day’s discoveries over a glass of local wine, you will be left with memories to last a lifetime. Evırı awaits – go now and be delighted.
