Balıkesir is a diverse northwestern Turkish province straddling the Marmara and Aegean regions, encompassing mythological Kaz Dağları (Mount Ida), olive-grove-lined coastal towns, thermal springs, and ferry connections to Istanbul. The province blends rural Anatolian culture with Aegean coastal charm.
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Market
Balıkesir Kapalı Çarşı (Covered Bazaar)
Local textiles, spices, dried legumes, household goods
Where: Balıkesir city centre
Hours: 09:00–19:00 Monday–Saturday
Market
Ayvalık Pazarı (Weekly Market)
Local produce, olive oil, olives, seasonal vegetables, cheese
Where: Ayvalık
Hours: Tuesday and Saturday: 07:00–14:00
Market
Edremit Zeytinyağı Kooperatifi
Direct sales of award-winning Edremit Gulf extra-virgin olive oil
Where: Edremit
Hours: 09:00–18:00 Monday–Saturday