Bandirma

Bandirma is a coastal city in northwestern Turkey, sitting on the Sea of Marmara. It is located in the Province of Balikesir, a populous region thanks to its large universities and commercial significance.

Travel In terms of tourism, this city rarely shows up on people’s itineraries. Bandirma is more widely known for its high-ranking schools and universities. It is estimated about 46,000 students study in this area of Turkey, with a large and diverse collection of foreign students. Rather than a destination itself, it is a popular stop and transfer point. Ferries operate every day back and forth from Istanbul, and from the centrally located port in Bandirma buses and trains scatter to every nearby region, including a high-speed express train to Izmir. However, there are some small things particular to the city that can still be appreciated by travellers.

Regional Climate 
The climate in Bandirma, much like most other cities in Turkey, is fairly tolerable and moderate. Temperatures from June- August range between 16 and 29 degrees. The rainy days are primarily in winter months, while summer brings many cloudless, clear days.

Hotels 
Bandirma is an ideal city to stop in, take a break and enjoy the scenery on those days with long transfers and travel times. For those looking to spend a day or two in the city, there are many options for Hotels and Lodging. Namely, the Grand Asya Hotel. This high-ranking hotel is a guest favourite thanks to its centralized location, sea views and various amenities, including a sauna and jacuzzi pool. The Bandirma Palas Hotel is another highly recommended hotel. With several cafes in the lobby, clean rooms and friendly staff, this hotel is sure to be a nice break from the hassle of travel.

Things to do
For those hoping to site-see around Bandirma, there are a few options available. The Ancient City of Cyzicus, for example, is only 13km north of the city, easily accessible by bus or taxi. Here, blocks of buildings that once stood tall litter the fields around it. Each pillar and stone that juts from the earth is deceiving, as it looks to be a part of the natural landscape, but a closer look reveals the intricate carvings and designs in the rock. Cyzicus was believed to be an important city, and in-fact was believed to have a “golden era” in the years after the Peloponnesian war. Historians claim its significance as a city in the 4th century has merit, and have proven this by looking at coins used throughout the Mediterranean region at the time. These coins were minted in Cyzicus. Many believe its gradual decline was due to a series of devastating earthquakes. Admission into the ruins is free.  For an insight into the history of the region, The Archeological Museum in Bandirma is a good outlet. The artefacts displayed in there range widely, but some of the more important pieces from the Ancient City of Cyzicus can be found inside. A few recent excavations in the province of Balikesir have also exposed the ruins of another city. Daskyleion was a city that popped up sometime around the Bronze Age. It had survived under Persian rule and remained standing through the Trojan War. Throughout the city’s lifespan, it had been conquered by Lydians and Spartans. Its downfall began during the Roman Empire, in which it was mostly uninhabited. Many artefacts and small pottery from this city is displayed in the Bandirma Archeological museum. A visit to the ruins themselves is also easy, about a 15-minute drive south of the city, and there is no fee or ticket needed to view them.