General Information
Foça: One of the most beautiful spots of the Aegean region, Foça is a lovely vacation paradise that enchants everyone with its scenic beauty and clear sea.
One of the cities of the Ionian League of the ancient times, Foça was formerly known as Phocaea named after the seals inhabiting the area.
Located north of Izmir province, this charming resort is divided into two districts namely, Eski Foça (Old Foça) and Yeni Foça (New Foca). A typical seaside resort, Foça will capture you with its natural wonders.
Mentioned in many legends Foca has maintained its significance up to the present. Indeed, the area offers a dreamlike view with its long coastline adorned with numerous bays.
Ready to cater its guests any season of the year, the town has made a name not only for its natural wonders but also for its historical heritage.
Attractions
There are many places to explore and sightsee in Foça which is one of the most natural and protected districts of Izmir province.
Foça welcomes its visitors with a variety of tourist attractions ranging from historic structures to small islands, breathtaking coasts and delicious flavors.
The coastal areas of Foça are among the three shores around the globe which harbor the Mediterranean monk seals. Approaching the habitat of the monk seals has been restricted as a means to ensure the protection of the species.
The site of various settlements since the ancient times, Foca is surrounded with numerous structures and artifacts belonging to different periods. The Siren Rocks which appear in many legends and harbor the monk seals and the Stone House in addition to the Temple of Athena, Persian Tomb Monument, Open- Air Temple of Cybele and Seytan Hamamı (Devil's Bath) and bear the traces of a centuries-long history.
Used as open air theater nowadays, the Beşkapılar Castle and Dış Castle were functional as strongholds in the ancient times. The Fatih, Kayalar, Hafiz Süleyman Ağa mosques are further historical sites worth sightseeing.
Eski Foça is well known for keeping the spirit of the past alive and conserving its authentic and historical houses. Surrounded with stone houses, small venues and a shopping district, Eski Foça is among the places you should definitely visit.
You can enjoy the sandy beaches, the sun and the clear blue sea of the coves and islands located on the coastal road from Eski Foça to Yeni Foça.
As a coastal town where fishery is the primary occupation, Foça offers the most delicate dishes of the Aegean cuisine. Foça, with its delicious cuisine and many attractions to see is waiting for you to visit!
Events
One of the conserved areas of the Aegean region, Foca is frequented by visitors not only for its scenic beauty but also for its festivals.
Organized in September every year, the program of the International Foca Culture, Art and Fishing Festival includes a variety of entertaining concerts, performances and activities.
Do not leave the area before visiting the local Sunday market where only fresh and entirely organic agricultural products are sold by local growers in support of the international slow food movement.
The Traditional Tarhana Festival, showcasing the organic agro products of the region is held at Yeryüzü Pazarı (Earth market square) in August every year and becomes the site of unforgettable memories and festivities.
Wouldn’t you like to explore Foça where you can collect unforgettable memories?
How can I get there?
Located north of Izmir province, Foca offers quite convenient and enjoyable transportation alternatives.
The most convenient route is to take a flight to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport. The shuttles or public transit vehicles stationed outside of the terminal gates will take you to Foça in a short time. Alternatively, you can reach the region by private car. The journey to Foça is enjoyable as it offers many scenic views.
Another alternative would be to get to the region by taking one of the intercity buses leaving from any city in Turley to Izmir province. You can continue your journey by taking one of the shuttle services leaving to Foça from the Izmir bus terminal.
Foca is the ideal address for tourists who wish to vacation in the heart of nature!
Source: http://goturkey.com/
