begüm When you think of Ayvalık, the first things that come to mind are the sea, sunshine, and olive trees. But actually, there’s a hidden side to this place: Küçükköy! Formerly known as Yeniçarohori, it has recently become one of my favourite spots to wander around and get lost in its stone streets. It’s a perfectly photogenic village with art galleries, cosy little cafés, and colourful doors everywhere. It offers the warm village atmosphere of the Aegean and surprises you with exhibitions or boutique shops on every corner. In this article, I’ve gathered the places to visit, things to do, and important tips about Küçükköy just for you. If you’re ready, let’s start exploring together!
History of Küçükköy
Küçükköy’s old name is Yeniçarohori, which means “the place of the Janissaries.” According to legend, when Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror was preparing to take Midilli in 1462, he settled Janissaries here. After that, the Greek inhabitants started calling the village Yeniçarohori.
Over the years, it grew into a busy Greek village, with typical stone houses reflecting the beautiful Aegean architecture. During the population exchange, the Greeks left and were replaced by Bosniaks coming from the Balkans. However, over time, the village became empty, leaving behind abandoned houses and quiet streets.
In recent years, things have changed. Artists, producers, and people escaping the big cities have discovered this place. With restored stone houses, newly opened workshops, and art galleries, Küçükköy has come back to life. Today, it is one of the most beautiful villages in the Aegean, known for both its historical charm and its artistic atmosphere.
What is a Smart Village?
Let me put it this way: Smart Village isn’t actually the name of a village, but rather a lifestyle model that’s becoming popular worldwide, like “slow city” or “ecological village.” What’s the aim? To combine village life with technology and sustainable solutions, protecting nature while making life easier for the people living there.
For example, farmers are taught how to practise more environmentally friendly farming, women get involved in production, waste is managed properly, and clean energy sources are used. The goal is to create a living environment where everyone has access to healthy food, clean water, and good services — a fair, safe, and enjoyable place to live.
Küçükköy has embraced this approach, mixing a bit of art with technology, and has transformed into a very different kind of village. In fact, people now mostly call it an “art village.”
Where is Küçükköy Yeniçarohori?
Küçükköy is located about 7 km from Ayvalık. It gained town status in 1970 but is now a charming settlement affiliated with the Ayvalık district. You can reach Küçükköy from Ayvalık centre by car in just 10 minutes, and it is only 2 kilometres away from Sarımsaklı Beach, which takes about 3 minutes by car. The journey from Cunda Island takes around 30 minutes.
How to get to Küçükköy?
By Car: The distance from Istanbul (Beşiktaş) to Küçükköy is approximately 431 km, and the journey takes about 5 hours and 40 minutes.
By Plane: You can fly to Edremit Koca Seyit Airport and reach Küçükköy in about 40 minutes. CLICK HERE to find affordable flight tickets!
Car Rental: You can rent a car from Edremit Koca Seyit Airport to get to Küçükköy. CLICK HERE to find affordable car rentals!
From Ayvalık to Küçükköy: It takes about 10 minutes by car. There are also minibuses available.
Where to Stay in Küçükköy Yeniçarohori
Where to Stay in Küçükköy?
Küçükköy accommodation options are available both in the city center and in quieter areas to stay and evaluate accommodation options. CLICK.
List of Places to Visit in Küçükköy Yeniçarohori
- 1Küçükköy Streets
- 2Kıraarthane
- 3Artura Gallery
- 4Artura Art Craft
- 5Küçükköy Culture Museum
- 6Küçükköy City Museum
- 7Kabbak House
- 8Sabancı University Creative Technologies Workshop
- 9Galerida
- 10Zet Cafe
- 11Küçükköy Muhallebicisi
- 12Lala’s Pie House
- 13Artura Cafe & Bistro
- 14Curious Witch
Map of Places to Visit in Küçükköy Yeniçarahori
Click to download the Map of Places to Visit in Küçükköy Yeniçarahori!
Places to Visit in Küçükköy Yeniçarahori
Küçükköy Streets
The stone streets of Küçükköy feel like time slows down here, and with every step, you can sense traces of the past. Colourful doors, tiny cafés, and occasional art galleries fill the area… No matter where you look, there’s something beautiful to see! You’ll find yourself stopping all the time, looking for excuses to take photos. To me, this place isn’t just for wandering around — it’s perfect for feeling peaceful, escaping the city, and taking a deep breath.
Kıraarthane
One of the pioneers of change in Küçükköy, Kıraarthane isn’t your typical café; it’s a hub for digital arts and technology projects. Founded by Simay and Eray, they designed it as a modern social space and a digital incubation centre.
At Kıraarthane, kids learn coding and digital arts, while mobile apps and games are developed. They regularly hold workshops and training sessions, and some pilot projects have even been sponsored by global brands. It’s not always open, but if you get the chance to visit, I definitely recommend it!
Artura Gallery
Founded in 1985 in Ankara, Artura Gallery now brings art and flavour together in a historic Greek house in Küçükköy. You’ll find Uğur Çalışkan’s sculptures along with works by some of Turkey’s top painters. It’s a lovely spot—part art gallery, part cosy bistro. Definitely worth a visit!
Artura Art Craft
Artura Art Craft is another special art space and shop owned by the Çalışkan couple. Inspired by Lycian, Ottoman, Karesi Beylik, and Bosnian cultures, Uğur Bey designs sandals, jewellery, and accessories that blend the past with the present. The space also features woodblock printing and engraving works, and you can watch ongoing projects on the large central table, giving it a real workshop vibe.
After exploring, it’s a great idea to relax at the nearby Artura Cafe & Bistro.
Küçükköy Culture Museum
The Küçükköy Cultural Museum is a versatile venue hosting cultural and art events, weddings, and large gatherings mostly held in Ayvalık and Küçükköy. It serves as a popular spot for exhibitions and social meetings, playing an important role in the village’s cultural life.
Küçükköy City Museum
Located in a historic stone house in the village square, the Küçükköy City Museum tells the story of the village’s past, especially its Greek history and the Balkan migration. The building, once used as a school, was transformed into a museum in 2013 to exhibit items brought by families who migrated from the Balkans. With many objects related to Balkan culture, the museum also has ethnographic significance.
Kabbak House
Kabbak Evi is a family business run by Yasemin and Bülent Arsev, who moved from Istanbul to Küçükköy after retirement. They create handmade lamps from dried gourds, each piece uniquely beautiful. These authentic designs add a special charm to the village and have become especially popular with foreign tourists. Yasemin and her husband truly make the gourds speak—definitely worth a visit to see their one-of-a-kind creations.
Sabancı University Creative Technologies Workshop
Established in the summer of 2019 in Yeniçarohori, the Sabancı University Creative Technologies Workshop aims to develop sustainable and innovative educational models using technology. It offers programs especially for children aged 8 to 15 and for women. This creative campus by Sabancı University brings a fresh and dynamic energy to Küçükköy and Ayvalık.
Galerida
Galerida is an art studio and gallery run by the painter couple Burhan and Ayşen Yıldırım, located in a historic house that once belonged to the village priest. After a long restoration, the space transformed into a warm and creative spot. Here, you can see Burhan’s expressive, human-focused paintings alongside Ayşen’s delicate still lifes and ceramics. Galerida is a wonderful place to experience the intimate and heartfelt side of art in Küçükköy.
What to Eat in Küçükköy Yeniçarohori?
Zet Cafe
Zet Cafe, the first cafe opened right in the heart of Küçükköy, gets its name from a Bosnian word meaning “groom.” Here, you can try delicious Bosnian treats like pita (Bosnian pastry), baked casseroles, and yogurt pastries. The cozy, authentic decor and the shady courtyard make it a lovely spot, especially on hot summer days. I tried the Bosnian pastry myself — not quite like the ones in Sarajevo, but still really tasty. Definitely worth a visit!
Küçükköy Muhallebicisi
Right next to Küçükköy Mosque in the village square, Küçükköy Muhallebicisi is a cosy, laid-back spot with a classic village café vibe. Their almond pudding is a must-try — seriously delicious! It’s also the perfect place to sip some tea and watch the lively square.
Artura Cafe & Bistro
Located in the lovely garden of Artura Gallery, Artura Cafe & Bistro is the perfect spot for a coffee break or a bite to eat after exploring Küçükköy. The garden is calm, peaceful, and the relaxing music in the background makes you feel right at home. There’s a small entrance fee, and you first get to visit a large exhibition room and a charming gallery-museum space before heading to the café. It’s a treat for both your eyes and your soul!
Lala’s Börek House
If you want to try Bosnian börek in Küçükköy, this is one of the go-to spots. We heard they make it with olive oil and had to check it out. The place is super cosy, their ribitsa is great, but the börek wasn’t quite what we hoped for. Bosnian dumplings are around 200-240 TL.
Curious Witch
If you’re looking for a spot in Küçükköy where you can grab breakfast and stay for dinner, Meraklı Cadı is just the place. The décor is full of witchy vibes — fun and a bit mystical. Their breakfast, meatballs, and olive oil dishes are really tasty. They even have live music from Thursday to Sunday. It’s got that lovely Aegean feel, and the prices won’t upset your wallet. We really enjoyed it!
Küçükköy Frequently Asked Questions
Is Küçükköy a Bosnian village?
Yes, it is a Bosnian village.
Is there a sea in Ayvalık Küçükköy?
There is no sea in Küçükköy, but it is 10 minutes away by car.
What is famous in Küçükköy?
It is famous for its Bosnian pies and dumplings.
We have come to the end of this article. See you in the next articles.
For other guides in Ayvalık, click here for Places to Visit in Ayvalık and Places to Visit in Cunda Island!
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