Foca in Izmir-Turkey

Foca, as a historic and beautiful coastal city in Izmir province and western Turkey, has many attractions, including islands, beaches and ancient places. Getting to know and planning a trip to this unique paradise of the Aegean Sea provides an unforgettable experience for tourists.

History of Foca

Foça, which dates back to the 11th century BC, is one of the most ancient and attractive cities north of Izmir. This city, which various governments ruled over the centuries, is considered an important place in the history of the Mediterranean due to its rich history and diverse cultural influences.

Foca got its name from the Seals that lived on the islands and the sea around it, and the ancient name of this place was "Phokaia," which changed to "Foca" over time. Today, this city is divided into two parts, the "New Foca" and the "Old Foca," and is famous as an attractive recreational area and attracts tourists from all over the world.

Where is Foca

Foca is actually a beautiful coastal district in the north of Izmir, which has a central part and 6 villages. This district is adjacent to "Çandarlı Bay" in the north, "Izmir Bay" in the west and "Menemen" region in the east and south. The distance between Foca and Izmir is only 64 km, and it takes about an hour to reach it from Izmir. Foca, with its green plains and the hills behind them, is considered one of the most beautiful coastal areas of Izmir and is an ideal destination for tourists who are looking for peace and natural beauty.

How to Access Foca

Access to Foca is easy for those who travel to this area by private car. If you are traveling from Izmir to Foca, you must pass through "Karşıyaka," "Çiğli," "Menemen" and "Bornova"; also, travel to Foca is available from "Istanbul-Çanakkale" and "Ankara-Eskişehir". Tourists can easily travel to Foca by renting a car in Izmir, Istanbul or Ankara.

Those who prefer to go to Foca by train or bus can travel from anywhere in Turkey to Izmir Bus Station, which is the first available terminal to reach Foca. In addition, travelers who plan to travel to Foca by plane can buy a flight ticket to "Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport". The distance between some important cities to Foca by private car is as follows:

·         Istanbul to Foca: about 598 km (by car, about 8 hours and 15 minutes)

·         Izmir to Foca: about 70 km (about 1 hour)

·         Bursa to Foca: about 362 km (about 5 hours)

·         Ankara to Foca: about 643 km (about 9 hours)

·         Manisa to Foca: about 72 km (about 1 hour and 15 minutes)

·         Kocaeli to Foca: about 505 km (about 7 hours)

The Best Time to Travel to Foca

As a coastal and scenic city in the west of Turkey, Foca has a Mediterranean climate and has its own charms in all seasons of the year. So, the best time to travel to Foca is different for each traveler, but in general, late spring and early autumn are considered the best time to visit this city. In this period, in addition to the favorable weather, due to the quietness of the city compared to the summer, it is possible to enjoy sightseeing and recreational activities more, and it is ideal for people who are looking for relaxation.

However, the summer is a better opportunity to enjoy the beaches and the sea. At the same time, winter, despite the rain, humid weather and fewer tourists, is very favorable for people who are looking for peace and a special trip.

Where to Stay in Foca

Foca, with its natural and historical attractions, is a unique and unforgettable destination for tourists. Foca's hotels and residences, from luxury and boutique hotels to cozy guesthouses and furnished apartments, welcome travelers with every taste and budget. Staying in Foca gives tourists the opportunity to witness the beauty of "Sirin Rocks" and other attractions in this city (for example), they can benefit from diverse and high-quality services by booking a hotel in this city and having a memorable experience.

In addition, considering that Foca is located close to the city of Izmir, tourists have the opportunity to rent a furnished apartment in Izmir and stay there, giving them the chance to visit both of these beautiful cities and make the most of their trip.

Tourist Attractions of Foca

As we have already mentioned, Foca, which is one of the most beautiful recreational areas of the Aegean with its clear blue sea, islands and rich history, consists of two parts, the "Old Foca" and the "New Foca". Old stone buildings, markets and ancient sites are located in Old Foca, which is actually known as the spirit of Foca. Tourists can visit the Foca Islands, which includes 6 ancient islands, by boat tours.

Foca beaches also have a blue flag (an international symbol to confirm the cleanliness of beaches and seas), and are considered a great place for swimming and relaxing, especially the "New Public Beach of Foca" and "Gencelli Beach (Gencelli Plajı)," with their soft sand and clear water, are a great opportunity for Rest and family fun are considered. The Temple of Athena, the tourist village of Pollen and the windmills of Foca, as symbols of the history and culture of this region, are important tourist attractions.

Foca Dishes

Foca's local cuisine, influenced by the rich culture of the Aegean and Mediterranean regions, is especially known for its wide variety of seafood. In the restaurants of this city, you can taste the unique flavors of grilled fish, shrimp pilaf, and various types of shellfish. These dishes are not only appealing to seafood enthusiasts but also to anyone seeking to explore new and delicious flavors.

Foca Souvenirs

In Foca's "Sunday Market," there is a great opportunity to buy unique souvenirs of this city, from dried figs and local tangerines to delicious olives and beautiful handicrafts; each of these products can be an attractive and valuable souvenir of your trip to Foca. Additionally, local textile products, with their stunning designs and vibrant colors, make an excellent gift for your friends and family.