Information about Assos (Behramkale), Turkey
Assos, also known as Behramkale, is a very charming place. It is located on the Aegean Coast, south of Canakkale and north of Izmir in Turkey. The Mysian city of Assos was founded in the 8th c B.C. by colonists from Lesvos, who later built the impressive Athena Temple, which crowns the hill.

The famous philosopher Aristotle lived there in the 4th c B.C. and founded a school. St. Paul also visited Assos on his way through Asia Minor. The setting is breathtaking with a small village of stone houses that clusters on a spire of rock. From the top, you have a view of the Greek Island of Lesvos.

There is a beach at Kadirga, and some interesting towns with old stone houses in the vicinity. The most romantic place to stay is in the small ancient harbor, where most of the hotels are located. Assos can be very busy during the summer and is known for its fresh fish restaurants.

If you have your own transportation you may take the ferry from Yenikapi in Istanbul to Bandirma, which is the quicker route, or go via Tekirdag and Canakkale, which takes approximately 8 hours. There are also bus connections from Istanbul to the nearby town of Ayvacik, and from Ayvacik you may take one of the frequent dolmus' (minibus) to Assos. 

Our insight 'Highlights of Turkey' and 'Ancient Kingdoms' tours both visit Assos.