Balıkesir is a diverse northwestern Turkish province straddling the Marmara and Aegean regions, encompassing mythological Kaz Dağları (Mount Ida), olive-grove-lined coastal towns, thermal springs, and ferry connections to Istanbul. The province blends rural Anatolian culture with Aegean coastal charm.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Edremit Gulf extra-virgin olive oil (best purchased at cooperatives in Edremit or Ayvalık)
Kaz Dağları mountain tea (dağ çayı) and dried herbs
Hand-woven kilims and textiles from Balıkesir markets
Local ceramics and hand-painted tiles from Ayvalık craft shops
Olive oil soap (zeytinyağlı sabun) — traditional and widely available
Palamut rakısı (local raki) — available from liquor shops (tekel bayii)
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Balıkesir Kapalı Çarşı (Covered Bazaar)
Local textiles, spices, dried legumes, household goods
Where: Balıkesir city centre
Hours: 09:00–19:00 Monday–Saturday
Ayvalık Pazarı (Weekly Market)
Local produce, olive oil, olives, seasonal vegetables, cheese
Where: Ayvalık
Hours: Tuesday and Saturday: 07:00–14:00
Edremit Zeytinyağı Kooperatifi
Direct sales of award-winning Edremit Gulf extra-virgin olive oil
Where: Edremit
Hours: 09:00–18:00 Monday–Saturday