Assos, also known as Behramkale, is a small but historically significant city located in the Çanakkale Province of Turkey. It is situated on the western coast of the country, overlooking the Aegean Sea. Assos is renowned for its ancient ruins, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.



Historically, Assos was founded by Ancient Greeks in the 8th century BC. It became an important city during the Hellenistic period and was a member of the Delian League, an alliance of Greek city-states led by Athens. The city flourished under the rule of the Pergamene Kingdom and later the Roman Empire.

One of the most prominent landmarks in Assos is the Temple of Athena, which is perched on top of a hill known as the Acropolis. This well-preserved temple dates back to the 6th century BC and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. The nearby ancient theater is another remarkable site to explore, known for its impressive architecture and beautiful backdrop.

Apart from its archaeological sites, Assos boasts a charming village atmosphere with narrow streets, traditional houses, and a relaxed ambiance. Visitors can wander through the picturesque streets, visit local shops, and enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine in the local restaurants.



The city's coastal location provides opportunities for swimming and sunbathing in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. There are also boat trips available for exploring the nearby islands and hidden coves.

Assos has become a popular tourist destination, especially for those seeking a peaceful and historically significant experience. It offers a unique blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and a laid-back atmosphere that attracts visitors from around the world.

Assos offers a range of tourist attractions that showcase its rich history and natural beauty. Here are some of the prominent attractions in Assos:

1. Temple of Athena: Situated on the Acropolis hill, the Temple of Athena is an ancient Greek temple dating back to the 6th century BC. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Aegean Sea.
2. Ancient Theater: Located near the Temple of Athena, the ancient theater of Assos is a well-preserved structure that once hosted theatrical performances and gatherings. Visitors can admire its architecture and enjoy the panoramic vistas.
3. Assos Harbor: The harbor area is a charming spot in Assos, offering picturesque views, colorful boats, and a tranquil atmosphere. It's a great place to relax, take a stroll, and enjoy the coastal ambiance.
4. Behramkale Village: The village itself is a delightful attraction with its traditional Ottoman-style houses, cobblestone streets, and cozy cafes. It offers a glimpse into local life and provides a serene setting for exploration.
5. Assos Beaches: Assos is blessed with beautiful beaches where visitors can relax and swim in the azure waters of the Aegean Sea. Some popular beaches include Kadırga Bay, Sivrice Bay, and Assos Beach. These beaches provide opportunities for sunbathing, water sports, and enjoying the coastal scenery.
6. Assos Museum: The Assos Museum showcases artifacts and archaeological finds from the ancient city. It provides insight into the history and culture of Assos and the surrounding region.
7. Assos Castle: Located atop the hill, Assos Castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. While the castle is mostly in ruins, it provides an opportunity to explore the ancient fortifications and enjoy the stunning vistas.
8. Nearby Island Excursions: Assos serves as a gateway to explore nearby islands, such as Lesbos (Mytilene) and Bozcaada (Tenedos). Boat trips and excursions are available, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the Aegean Islands.

​Assos has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Here's a breakdown of the weather you can expect during the different seasons in Assos:

1. Spring (March to May): Spring in Assos is generally mild and pleasant. Temperatures start to rise, with average highs ranging from 16°C (61°F) in March to 23°C (73°F) in May. It's a great time to visit Assos if you prefer cooler weather and want to avoid the peak tourist season.
2. Summer (June to August): Summers in Assos are hot and dry. Average temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) in June to 32°C (90°F) in August. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures occasionally reaching above 35°C (95°F). It's the peak tourist season, and the coastal location of Assos makes it a popular destination for beachgoers during this time.
3. Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Assos is mild and pleasant, with temperatures gradually cooling down. Average highs range from 28°C (82°F) in September to 19°C (66°F) in November. The sea remains warm, making it an ideal time for swimming and beach activities. Autumn is also a good time to visit if you prefer quieter surroundings and want to explore the historical sites without the crowds.
4. Winter (December to February): Winters in Assos are relatively mild but can be damp. Average temperatures range from 11°C (52°F) in December to 14°C (57°F) in February. While snowfall is rare, rain showers are more frequent during this season. It's a quieter time in Assos, with fewer tourists, but it can still be enjoyable for exploring the historical sites and enjoying the local culture.

​Best hotels in Assos:

1. Assos Nazlihan Hotel: This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Assos and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. It features a swimming pool, a garden, and a terrace with panoramic views.
2. Assos Eden Beach Hotel: Situated right on the beach, this hotel offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea. It provides comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a beach bar.
3. Assos Kervansaray Hotel: This hotel is set in a restored historical building and offers a unique and charming atmosphere. It features spacious rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a garden area.
4. Assos Alarga-Doğan Hotel: Nestled in a peaceful location, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with sea or garden views. It boasts a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a private beach area.
5. Assos Bohemian Hotel: This boutique hotel is known for its stylish design and personalized service. It offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a terrace with panoramic views.

​Are the any shopping malls in Assos?

Assos is a small historical town that prioritizes its cultural and natural attractions rather than large-scale shopping malls. As such, you won't find traditional shopping malls in Assos. However, there are local shops, boutiques, and markets where you can find unique souvenirs, handmade crafts, local products, and traditional Turkish goods. Exploring the narrow streets of Assos village will lead you to various shops selling items such as textiles, ceramics, jewelry, olive oil, and more. These local shops offer a more authentic and immersive shopping experience, allowing you to interact with the locals and discover one-of-a-kind treasures.

What are the local dishes of Assos?

Assos, being a coastal town in Turkey, offers a variety of delicious local foods that highlight the flavors of the region. Here are some popular local dishes and ingredients you can enjoy in Assos:

1. Aegean Mezes: Assos is known for its mezes, which are small dishes served as appetizers. These can include a variety of flavorful options such as grilled octopus, marinated olives, stuffed vine leaves (dolma), eggplant dishes, and seafood-based mezes like shrimp or mussel dishes.
2. Assos Olive Oil: Assos is famous for its high-quality olive oil, which is often used in local dishes. The region's olive groves produce excellent olive oil known for its fruity and rich flavor. It is used in salads, drizzled over dishes, or enjoyed with freshly baked bread.
3. Çanakkale Ezine Cheese: This regional cheese, named after the nearby town of Ezine, is a popular ingredient in Assos cuisine. It is a semi-hard, white cheese with a slightly salty taste. It is often served in meze platters, on breakfast tables, or used as a topping in various dishes.
4. Fish and Seafood: Given its coastal location, Assos is known for its fresh fish and seafood. Popular seafood dishes include grilled or fried fish, calamari, octopus salad, shrimp casserole, and fish soup. You can savor the catch of the day at local restaurants or visit the fish market to buy your own fresh seafood.
5. Çökertme Kebab: This traditional kebab dish is popular in the Aegean region and can be found in Assos as well. It consists of marinated lamb or beef, skewered and grilled, served with grilled vegetables, yogurt, and bread.
6. Zeytinyağlı Yemekler: These are dishes cooked in olive oil and are common in Assos cuisine. They include dishes such as stuffed peppers (biber dolması), stuffed eggplants (patlıcan dolması), artichokes, and zucchini. These dishes are usually vegetarian and offer a healthy and flavorful option.
7. Assos Honey: Assos is known for its honey production. The region's honey is made from a variety of flowers and has a distinct flavor. It is often used as a sweetener in desserts or enjoyed simply drizzled over yogurt or bread.

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