Overview
Gönen is a spa town in Southern Marmara, Turkey, 45 km inland from the port of Bandırma. It is best known for its geothermal hot springs that have been used since Roman times for relaxation and therapy.
Budget Travel · History · Nature
Before you go
Connectivity
4G coverage available from all Turkish carriers. No 5G as of 2022.
Health
Gönen's geothermal hot springs emerge at 52°C with sulphur, sodium bicarbonate and chloride. The town has a history of leather tanning.
Money
Turkish Lira (TL) is the local currency. Prices mentioned include bus fare (220 TL) and accommodation (400-1200 TL for doubles).
Safety
The 1953 earthquake (magnitude 7.3) destroyed much of the town. The fault responsible creates the hot springs; major quakes recur approximately every 660 years.
Transport
Kamil Koç/Flixbus runs every 2-3 hours from Istanbul Esenler; single fare 220 TL, journey takes six hours.