Cunda Island

Cunda Island Travel Guide

Cunda Island, located in the Ayvalık district of Balıkesir, is one of Turkey’s most remarkable islands in terms of places to visit. Although its official name today is Alibey Island, it is widely known as Cunda Island. The island was named after Lieutenant Colonel Ali Çetinkaya, who led the first armed resistance unit against the Greek occupation during the Turkish War of Independence. Among the 22 islands surrounding Ayvalık, Cunda is the only one with permanent settlement and is the fourth largest island in the Aegean Sea.

Cunda Island is not only famous for its natural beauty but also for its lively touristic atmosphere. With its old churches and monasteries, narrow stone streets lined with historical houses, beaches, and renowned restaurants, Cunda has become one of the most popular travel destinations in recent years.

Top Places to Visit on Cunda Island

1. Cunda Seaside

The first stop on our list is the lively seaside area of the island. Known as Mevlana Street, this part of the coast is closed to vehicle traffic. The vibrant section starts near Hamidiye Mosque. If you arrive by car, you can park at the paid municipal parking lot and enjoy a walk along the coast. The seaside is beautiful both day and night. The historic Despot House stands at the beginning of the promenade, one of the oldest and most significant buildings on the island. Along the coast, you’ll find “Lokma İmparatoru” famous for its delicious lokma desserts, the historic Taş Kahve known for its dibek coffee, and Bay Nihat Restaurant offering exquisite dishes. Don’t miss the street vendors selling iced almonds along the way!

2. Lovers Hill & Sevim and Necdet Kent Library

One of the most scenic viewpoints on Cunda Island is Lovers Hill. From here, you can admire the panoramic view of Cunda, Ayvalık, and the surrounding islands. At the top, you’ll find the Sevim and Necdet Kent Library and the Panaya Church. The narrow streets make driving difficult, so it’s best to approach via 15 Eylül Street. There’s limited parking near the library. The building was once the Agios Yannis Church, part of a monastery connected to the Fener Greek Patriarchate in Istanbul. After years of neglect, it was restored in 2007 by the Rahmi M. Koç Museum and Culture Foundation and turned into a library. Named after former ambassador Necdet Kent and his wife Sevim Kent, the library houses 1,300 books donated by their son Muhtar Kent. The windmill next to the library has become one of Cunda’s symbols. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing lemonade at the small café overlooking the stunning view. The library is open daily except Mondays, from 09:30 to 17:30, free of charge.

3. Taksiyarhis Church (Rahmi M. Koç Museum)

There are two Taksiyarhis Churches — one in Ayvalık and one in Cunda. The Cunda church, built in 1873, now serves as the Rahmi M. Koç Museum. Constructed with “garlic stone,” the building features neo-classical architecture with a single dome and rectangular basilica plan. The church bell, once used during World War II, is now displayed at the Bergama Museum. After extensive restoration by the Rahmi M. Koç Foundation in 2011, the museum exhibits classic cars, tin toys, steam models, maritime instruments, antique baby carriages, and vintage toys. It’s open from 10:00–17:00 (Oct–Mar) and 10:00–19:00 (Apr–Sep), closed on Mondays. Parking is limited, so walking from the harbor or Lovers Hill is recommended.

4. Tımarhane Island

One of the most intriguing spots near Cunda is Tımarhane Island. According to legend, during the Ottoman period, local Greeks who drank too much were sent here to “clear their minds.” The island is known for its strong winds, believed to help sober people up. The ruins of the Agia Paraskevi Monastery remain on the island. You can view Tımarhane Island from afar while exploring the Cunda coastline.

5. Cunda Seaside Bazaar

Continuing along the coast, you’ll reach the Seaside Bazaar, where you can find unique handmade souvenirs and gifts. Olive oil and related products are among the most popular items in Ayvalık and Cunda. The bazaar offers magnets, jewelry, and decorative crafts — perfect for keepsakes.

6. Taş Kahve

Taş Kahve is one of the most iconic spots on Cunda Island. Its history dates back to Giritli Hüseyin Bey, who ran a café in Crete before settling in Cunda after the population exchange. His son continued the tradition, eventually purchasing and operating the current Taş Kahve. Today, it’s famous for its mastic-flavored coffee and nostalgic atmosphere. Locals and tourists alike gather here to enjoy coffee or mastic ice cream by the sea.

7. Despot House

Built by the local Greek community in 1862, Despot House is one of Cunda’s most historic buildings. The story goes that after Greece gained independence, the Despot received large donations from the people and used part of the money to build this mansion. He was later killed during a raid, and the fate of his treasure remains a mystery. The building has served various purposes over time but now stands in ruins. You can find it at the eastern end of the Cunda coast near the parking area.

8. Moonlight Monastery

Located in Patriça, north of Cunda Island, the Moonlight Monastery (also known as the Virgin Girls Monastery) dates back to the 16th century. Built from garlic stone, it was beautifully restored by Suzan Sabancı. Although it was intended to become a museum, it’s now a private mansion open to visitors only one day a week for five hours.