Armutlu (Ihlas) Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Armutlu is conveniently accessible via multiple transportation options from Istanbul, with the journey taking approximately 2-3 hours by road. Regular ferry services connect Armutlu to Yalova and Istanbul, offering a scenic alternative to driving. From Bursa, the drive takes about 1.5 hours along coastal roads with stunning sea views. Public buses run from major cities to Armutlu town center, from where shuttle services can take you to the ferry terminal. For those arriving by car, ample parking is available near the port area, though arriving early during summer months is advisable.

Nestled on the southern shores of the Marmara Sea, Armutlu offers a peaceful escape from the hustle of Turkey's major cities. This charming coastal town is known for its therapeutic hot springs, pristine beaches, and lush mountain backdrop. As a ferry destination, Armutlu serves as a gateway to both natural wellness and authentic Turkish coastal life, where visitors can experience the perfect blend of relaxation and local culture.

Armutlu enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. The peak season runs from June to September when temperatures average 25-30°C, perfect for beach activities and swimming in the Marmara Sea. Spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) offer pleasant temperatures around 15-25°C with fewer tourists, making these months ideal for thermal spa visits and exploring nature. Ferry services operate more frequently during summer months but maintain regular schedules throughout the year. Winter visitors can enjoy the therapeutic hot springs in peaceful surroundings, often with promotional accommodation rates.

From Armutlu's ferry port, travelers can easily reach the vibrant city of Istanbul within 1.5-2 hours, offering world-class historical sites and bustling markets. The industrial yet culturally rich city of Yalova is just a 45-minute ferry ride away, known for its thermal springs and botanical gardens. Nature enthusiasts should consider a trip to Termal, accessible via a short ferry ride and bus connection, famous for its ancient Roman baths and lush forests. The Princes' Islands make for a delightful day trip, with their car-free environments and historic summer mansions, reachable in about 2 hours by connecting ferries.

Armutlu's renowned thermal springs offer therapeutic mineral-rich waters that have drawn wellness seekers for centuries, with many local hotels featuring private thermal pools and spa treatments. The pristine beaches along the Marmara coastline provide perfect spots for swimming and sunbathing, with Ihlas Beach being particularly popular among locals and visitors alike. Foodies will appreciate the town's seafood restaurants, where freshly caught fish is served with traditional Turkish mezes and often accompanied by rakı, the national anise-flavored spirit. The old town district features charming narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses, local craft shops, and authentic tea gardens where you can observe daily Turkish life. Nature trails in the surrounding Samanlı Mountains offer spectacular views over the Marmara Sea for those seeking active adventures.

Armutlu's name derives from the Turkish word for 'pear' (armut), reflecting the area's historical abundance of pear orchards that once dominated the landscape before thermal tourism took center stage. The therapeutic waters of Armutlu have been used since Byzantine times and are said to contain 17 different minerals that allegedly help treat various ailments from rheumatism to skin conditions. Local legend claims that a Byzantine princess was cured of a serious illness after bathing in these waters, establishing the area's reputation for healing. Armutlu sits near a major fault line, which explains its geothermal activity, with water temperatures reaching up to 70°C (158°F) at some springs.