Greek Island mixed with Turkish Flair

Tenedos, or Bozcaada in Turkish, is an island situated in the Aegean Sea. It is the third largest Turkish island after Imbros and Marmara, but it is also a beautiful island that is still mostly a hidden gem to many world travelers. The mix of Greek and Turkish influences make this…well almost a Greek island, but… with a very strong Turkish influence…. The island has it all: Al Fresco cafes with beautiful outdoor seating areas and views, cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses with that Greek influenced blue decorations.

Bozcaada (pronounced boz-DJA-ah-dah) is also called Tenedos.

Bozcaada is a trendy and popular destination. A spot where the elite has come to on vacation for many years, and it is easy to see why it is so popular. This is the place to go to when you want to escape the city life or hectic tourist destinations. It is also much cheaper than many of the famous Greek touristy islands. Although the island does not have a lot of things to do on land, you will still find fabulous seafood, spectacular sunsets, beautiful beaches, great accommodation and amazing photo opportunities.

How to get there

You can visit the island of Bozcaada by ferryboat, and if you want to bring your car, you can connect from the mainland at Geyikli Yukyeri Port. Passenger only (fast) ferry services are available from Canakkale.

Things to See and Do

Must do experiences on Bozcaada island.

Try the seafood. While you’re there, take the time to enjoy lunch at one of the many cafes with outdoor seating. Enjoy the fresh air and order a seafood dish.
Go for a wine tasting experience at one of the vineyards of Bozcaada. The island is famous for wine and olives. As the wine industry is an integral part of the island, you must visit some of the vineyards like Corvus, Amadeus, Talay or Çamlibag Wineries. (Usually, the Bozcaada Wine Festival was an annual 2 or 3-day event held in June to celebrate local wines.)
End the day with a sunset feast under the trees at Ayazma Monastery (Alaybey, Bozcaada/Canakkale)

Places to visit on Bozcaada island.

For the history lovers, there are a few places you can explore:

Bozcaada Kalesi / Bozcaada Castle is a must-see if you love historical sites. An almost-in-tact castle with great views.
Bozcaada Yerel Tarih Araştırma Merkez Müzesi / Museum – A museum about the history of the island.
Namazgah Çeşmesi – A historical landmark on the island (built in 1703) – is not really a big wow or something that I would say is a “must-see” place on the island, but to the people of the island it has historical value.

Then there is also the Yali and Alaybey Mosque, Namazgah which is used as a park today and the Virgin Mary Church which dates back to 1870. (Visitors can only see the inside of the church by attending the church service.)

Explore a little bit more of the island

Taking the ferry from Geyikli you will arrive at the town center. From here you can explore the “two different sides” of the island. (Many refer to it as the Greek side and the Turkish side with a clear difference in the architecture.) The island is easy to explore, and you can enjoy a few fabulous photo opportunities with the traditional houses and bougainvillea filled street corners.

Bozcaada Castle

As it is actually the only tourist attraction on the island, and the fact that you cannot miss it as you approach the island from the sea, this is a place you have to visit. This majestic castle is one of the best-preserved castles of Turkey and it is open for visitors everyday between 10.00 – 20.00.

Best time to visit Bozcaada

In my opinion, the best time to visit Bozcaada is mid-May to October. During this time you will have warm sea temperatures which makes it perfect should you wish to add some beach activities and swimming. (July and August is the summer months when you can expect an average high of about 28 or 29 degrees and water temperatures up to 27 and 28 degrees.)

How much time do you need for a visit to Bozcaada

You can easily explore the island within an hour, but depending on how much you love experiencing the local food, traditions, etc., you will definitely need extra time. Time for a nice lunch, for wine tasting, sightseeing and just walking and exploring the streets to take some beautiful photos.

Where to stay in Bozcaada

Taking your time to explore and really experience the atmosphere of the island is what its all about. This is the reason why may people overnight or even do a few days vacation stay on the island. Here are a few great accommodation options: