6 places to visit in the Susurluk district of Balıkesir: Susurluk Ayran Stop, Susurluk Bazaar Mosque and Susurluk Plain. Plan your trip to Susurluk with local food, practical tips and transport information.
The eastern part of the district is rugged with Çataldağ (1,336 m), and the western parts with the Keltepe (881 m) mountains. The Susurluk Stream flows east of the district centre, dividing the town into two neighbourhoods.
Susurluk is famous for its ayran, and there are many rest facilities within the district’s boundaries.
Susurluk became a subdistrict in 1892 and a district in 1926. 5 September 1922 is the day it was liberated from enemy occupation. The traffic accident of 3 November 1996 and the scandal that followed it brought the district to the attention of the whole of Türkiye. When it was still a farm called Susığırlık, it became a stopping place for caravans travelling to Bursa and Istanbul.
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Susurluk, on the Istanbul–Izmir highway, has been famous for its frothy ayran since the 1950s. Susurluk ayran, first produced by 'Ayrancı Şükrü', is a registered geographical indication and is sold in dozens of facilities and petrol stations.
View on mapBuilt in the Ottoman period, the Bazaar Mosque is the oldest place of worship in the district centre. With its cut-stone walls and woodwork, it is a simple example of local Ottoman mosque architecture. Commissioned by the bazaar tradesmen, the mosque stands out for its position in the middle of commercial life.
View on mapThe fertile Susurluk Plain, irrigated by the Susurluk Stream, is known for its wide farmland. It offers a visually striking landscape of shades of green, especially in the spring months.
View on mapA historic bridge over the Susurluk Stream, built in the Ottoman period. Its stone-arched structure is an important example of local engineering heritage.
View on mapThe 1,336-metre Çataldağ in the eastern part of the district defines the rugged character of the land.
View on mapWhile you are in Susurluk, you can also see the highlights of Balıkesir province. These places are in other districts.
Susurluk ayran, with its thick froth and creamy texture, is the most famous ayran in Türkiye and is whipped by special methods. The production tradition that began in the 1950s has earned a geographical indication.
Served alongside Susurluk ayran, the toastie is made with sucuk, kaşar and tomato. It is an essential refreshment stop for travellers on the Istanbul–Izmir road.
Keşkek is made by cooking cracked wheat and lamb for hours and then pounding them together. In Susurluk it is the traditional dish of weddings and festive holiday tables.
The district is known for its ayran.
Susurluk is known as the ayran capital of Türkiye. The tradition of frothy ayran, which began in the 1950s, has become an inseparable part of the district's cultural identity. An annual ayran festival celebrates this tradition.
Thanks to its position on the Istanbul–Izmir highway, Susurluk has become a traditional stopping point for travellers. Ayran and toastie hospitality is one of the symbols of Turkish road culture.
The Susurluk economy rests on dairy farming, the food industry, agriculture and trade. The district is one of Türkiye's most important dairy production centres. Susurluk ayran and the toastie trade are important sources of income. Its location on the Istanbul–Izmir highway supports commercial activity. Farming produces grain, sugar beet and sunflowers.
Susurluk lies on the Istanbul–Izmir highway (O-5). It is 50 km from Balıkesir and 100 km from Bursa. Road links are strong, and intercity buses pass through the district. The nearest airport is Balıkesir Koca Seyit Airport (55 km).
The top 6 sights in Susurluk are: Susurluk Ayran Stop, Susurluk Bazaar Mosque, Susurluk Plain, Susurluk Bridge, Çataldağ and Çaylak Picnic Area.
Susurluk Ayranı, Susurluk Tostu, Keşkek and Ayran are the standout dishes on Susurluk's tables.
Susurluk is known for Susurluk Ayranı and its ayran culture. It is a product registered with TÜRKPATENT as a protected geographical indication.
Susurluk lies on the Istanbul–Izmir highway (O-5). It is 50 km from Balıkesir and 100 km from Bursa. Road links are strong, and intercity buses pass through the district. The nearest airport is Balıkesir Koca Seyit Airport (55 km).
Suggested visit length: half a day. Best time to visit: year-round.