Located in the northwest of Türkiye with coastlines on both the Marmara and the Aegean Seas, Balıkesir stands out with its geographical diversity, rich historical heritage, and productive human capital. Covering more than 14,000 square kilometers and comprising 20 districts, Balıkesir offers a blend of local richness and modern urban life across one of Türkiye’s largest territories, with a population exceeding 1.2 million.
Throughout history, the city has been home to many civilizations, including Mysia, Lydia, Persia, Rome, and the Ottoman Empire, preserving its rich cultural layers to the present day. With the ancient cities of Antandros and Daskyleion, the ruins of Kyzikos, the Zağnos Pasha Mosque, and its historical mansions, Balıkesir stands as a unique open-air museum that reflects the multi-layered history of Anatolia.
The city is also known for its outstanding natural assets: the oxygen-rich Kazdağları (Mount Ida), the unique ecosystem of Lake Manyas Bird Sanctuary, the blue waters of the Ayvalık Islands, and Sındırgı’s healing thermal springs make Balıkesir a prime destination for nature tourism. Its fertile lands support strong agricultural production, particularly in olives, dairy, and meat, positioning the city as a major food hub in Türkiye.
Balıkesir is not only defined by its natural assets but also by its vibrant cultural scene. Festivals, fairs, concerts, and cultural events held throughout the year reflect the city’s dynamic social fabric. This cultural vitality, bringing together traditional values and modern life, makes Balıkesir an attractive destination for all visitors.
The city places the principles of sustainable development, equality, and social solidarity at the core of its local governance approach. With zero-waste practices in agriculture, investments in renewable energy, and nature-based solutions, Balıkesir stands as a model city that carries its environmental responsibility into the future.
Thanks to its transportation infrastructure, Balıkesir is located at the intersection of road, sea, air, and rail networks, maintaining strong connections with major hubs such as İstanbul, İzmir, and Bursa. This strategic position makes the city a key gateway for logistics and tourism.
As a city where nature, history, and people coexist in harmony, Balıkesir carries the heritage of the past into the future. Here, the warmth of the Aegean meets the tranquility of the Marmara; production and culture, tradition and innovation intertwine.
