Foça and the Yenifoça Coast

Foça: Where Myth Meets the Aegean

According to Homer, the Sirens sang their enchanting song on the rocks of Foça, hoping to lure Odysseus and his crew. Today, this lovely town on Turkey's Aegean coast still casts a spell on visitors with its timeless beauty and warm hospitality. The ancient name of the town, Phokaia, means 'seal' in Greek, and seals still occasionally appear in the nearby waters.

Foça is split into two distinct areas: the old town (Eski Foça) with its narrow streets and historic houses, and the newer resort area of Yenifoça about 20 kilometers to the north. Both offer a delightful escape from the crowds, with a pace that invites you to slow down and savor the moment.

The old town is a photographer's dream, with charming Ottoman-Greek houses, colorful shutters, and bougainvillea-draped walls. The harbor is always alive with fishermen mending nets and small boats bobbing in the water.

A Stroll Through History

Foça's history stretches back thousands of years, and you can see traces of it everywhere. The ancient city walls, the Genoese fortress, and the Ottoman-era mosques all tell stories of the civilizations that have called this coast home.

Don't miss the chance to wander through the backstreets, where you'll find local women selling handmade lace and olive oil soaps, and children playing in the sunny squares.

Yenifoça: A Relaxed Coastal Retreat

Yenifoça, or 'New Foça', is a laid-back resort town with a long sandy beach and a small harbor. It's a popular spot for Turkish families and offers a more contemporary vibe than its older sibling.

The beach here is perfect for swimming, and the water is crystal clear. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants along the promenade, making it an ideal place to spend a lazy afternoon.

Yenifoça also has a fascinating history—it was founded in the 18th century by Ottoman Greeks and still retains some of its original character.

Islands and Boat Trips

One of the highlights of a visit to Foça is taking a boat trip to the nearby islands. The most famous are the Siren Rocks (Siren Kayalıkları), where the mythical creatures were said to reside. These rocky islets are now a protected area for Mediterranean monk seals, so you can't land on them, but boat tours circle around for a close look.

Other islands, like Orak Island and İncir Island, offer secluded beaches and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Many boat trips include a stop for swimming and a fresh seafood lunch on board.

You can easily arrange a boat trip from the harbor in Foça or Yenifoça. Trips typically last a full day and include multiple swimming stops.

Beaches and Seafood

Foça and Yenifoça are blessed with beautiful beaches. In Foça, the main beach is small but pleasant, while nearby coves like Akkum and Kartdere offer sandier shores. Yenifoça's beach is longer and more developed, with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent.

No visit to Foça is complete without indulging in the local seafood. The harbor is lined with restaurants serving freshly caught fish, calamari, and an array of mezes. Be sure to try the stuffed mussels, sea beans, and the local specialty, 'karides güveç' (shrimp casserole). Pair your meal with a glass of rakı and watch the sunset over the Aegean.

For a casual bite, grab a 'balık ekmek' (fish sandwich) from a boat by the harbor—it's a Foça tradition.

Getting There and Around

Foça is easily accessible from İzmir, about 70 kilometers to the south. Buses run regularly from İzmir's bus terminal (Otogar) and take around 1.5 hours. If you're driving, the route along the coast is scenic and well-signposted.

Once in Foça, you can explore the old town on foot, but to reach Yenifoça and the beaches, you'll need a dolmuş (minibus) or taxi. Dolmuşes run frequently between the two towns.

For more travel tips and itineraries, check out our guides and itineraries.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Foça is between May and October, when the weather is warm and sunny. July and August can be hot, but the sea breeze keeps things comfortable. Spring and autumn are ideal for exploring without the crowds.

For more information on seasonal weather, see our best time to visit Turkey page.

Where to Stay

Accommodation in Foça ranges from boutique hotels in restored Ottoman houses to simple guesthouses and family-run pensions. Yenifoça has more resort-style hotels and holiday villages.

For a truly memorable stay, choose a hotel in Foça's old town, where you can wake up to the sound of seagulls and the smell of fresh bread from the local bakery.

Ready to plan your trip? Use our trip planner to create a personalized itinerary.