Buca is one of Izmir’s most beautiful and fascinating cities and visiting it will certainly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for everyone. Many people are attracted to this city and love it so much that they would relocate to Buca from anywhere in the world.
Buca has numerous natural attractions, as it is a city of historical monuments, mineral waters, ancient cities, cafes, and a variety of other attractions that draw not only tourists but also permanent residents.
July, June, and May are the busiest months for tourism in Buca, Izmir. During these months, hotel and flight prices will be at their highest, but you may save money if you book ahead of time. In November, there are not many visitors coming to Buca. Those who are willing to travel at these times will likely find that it is the most affordable month.
In this article, we’ll cover the fundamentals of what you need to know and how to make the most of your stay in Buca. We’ll also take a quick look as to whether it’s acceptable for ex-pats wishing to relocate to Buca and live there all year.
Where is Buca?
Buca is a district in the Turkish province of Izmir in the Aegean region. It is one of the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality’s key urban districts. The district center lies somewhat inwards, like Bornova, with which it holds key traits in common, and on higher terrain that overlooks the southern beaches of the Gulf of Izmir’s tip.
History of Buca
Buca was one of Izmir’s Levantine communities. The large homes that were built in the 19th century still survive and are mostly rebuilt. The district center sits somewhat inland, like Bornova, and on higher terrain, overlooking the southern beaches of the Gulf of Izmir.
Buca has been populated by Greeks since Byzantine times. As a result of the 1676 pandemic and the 1688 Smyrna earthquake, the French consulate in Izmir transferred to Buca near the end of the 17th century. Those who acquired the adjoining vineyards tended to be of Latin heritage, as opposed to those who liked Bornova.
However, ethnic origins were not exclusively concentrated in Bornova and Buca. Many Greeks from the rebellious districts fled to Buca after the Orlov Uprising collapsed in 1770 (during the Russo-Turkish War (in 1768–1774), adding to the town’s creation.
When the railway reached Buca from Smyrna in 1861, rich Smyrnian Europeans built summer villas there. Due to its fast expansion, Buca became a permanent suburb of Smyrna. A century ago, there were three Greek Orthodox churches, two Greek community schools (male and female), some private Greek schools, two private English schools, a Catholic nonnes’ school, and a Capuchin monk’s school.
The Greeks, together with other Christians, were the majority, while the Turkish (Muslim) population was insignificant. However, Greek settlers were ousted in 1922 and fled to Greece, establishing “Neos Voutzas” near Athens (literally “New Buca”). Buca presently only has two churches: Catholic and Baptist. However, many of the 19th-century residences have been renovated and are now in use by public or private organizations.
What are the Climatic Characteristics of Buca?
Buca has a Mediterranean climate. In the summer, a refreshing sea breeze removes the sun’s glare. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are warm and wet. Winters are mild and seldom below zero.
Buca’s typical temperatures vary widely. The weather is comfortable most of the year, with hot summers and cold winters, and minimal chance of rain or snow. The region has the 62nd percentile of good weather among tourist destinations worldwide. These are the nicest weather weeks.
Buca is hottest in August, July, and June. See below for monthly average temperatures. Early August is the warmest month of the year, with highs of 93.2°F (34°C) and lows of 78.1°F (25.6°C).
What is Buca’s Population?
Buca is the most densely inhabited city in terms of population density. Buca has a population of 507,773 people, with 52% of the population being in their forties, 14% being old, and the remaining 34% being youthful. The population is divided evenly between men and women.
How are the People of Buca?
Buca residents must be aware of differences and relatively accepting of them because it receives a large number of tourists from all over the world, especially during the summer. There are also expats-pats and retirees from other countries that live here, which adds to the diversity.
The region is modern and cosmopolitan in appearance. Although the vast majority of its residents identify as Turkish, the area is nonetheless quite varied. It is home to Turkey’s second-largest Jewish community, as well as a considerable number of Levantines — Christians of Venetian and French ancestry.
Izmir’s official language is Turkish, and while some locals may speak basic English, ex-pats going to the city should acquire some Turkish. Buca people are warm-blooded and welcoming in nature.
Is Buca Suitable for Family Life?
Yes, Buca is suitable for family life because it has several unique locations, lovely parks, and fun activities for kids. Of course, the Buca people are warm and kind, and they love their city and work hard to keep it that way. Buca’s belly tour, landmarks, and festivals are among the things that make life in Buca more enjoyable.
Is Buca Suitable for Foreigners?
Izmir, recognized for its kindness, welcomes international foreigners. As a consequence, foreigners moving to Izmir should have minimal trouble adjusting. Those who like Izmir, adjust fast. We would like to give some more tips for foreigners to help them enjoy Izmir even more.
If your home country has a colder climate, you may need some time to acclimate to Izmir’s mild climate. Avoid going outside without a hat, wear non-sweaty clothes, and apply sunscreen to exposed skin before leaving. A house air conditioner will also make you feel better. You will feel more at peace as you become used to the weather.
Walking through Buca’s city center and major suburbs during the day is entirely safe. Balcova Izmir is a popular destination for tourists. The Buca Police Department has a tourism police squad that can help travelers in English, German, French, and Arabic. Foreign travelers to Buca should check Turkey’s visa regulations to discover whether they need one.
Only a few national citizens can visit Turkey without a visa. All other foreigners need a visa to enter Turkey. Several countries are eligible to apply for a Turkey e-Visa for Izmir online, eliminating the need to visit an embassy or consulate. A valid electronic Izmir visa allows you to stay in Turkey for 90 days for tourist, business, or transit.
The online Turkey visa application form requires a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the estimated travel date in Izmir. A valid passport and basic personal information are required to obtain an approved Izmir visa by email. For speedy entry into Izmir, holders of approved electronic visas can present a paper copy of the visa with their passports.
Is Buca a Safe Place?
Yes, Buca is a reliable city where everyone can live comfortably. Buca is usually considered a safe location. All visitors to Buca should know the Turkish Police phone number (155), in case they need assistance. The Buca Police Department has a tourism police section that speaks English, German, French, and Arabic. For further reading, you can visit our article Is Turkey Safe?
Is Life Expensive in Buca?
As the region’s popularity develops, more individuals look to retire or live and work there. Buca’s big foreign community flourishes, and even Turks relocate here for the low cost of living and tranquility. Buca is a beautiful and affordable city in Izmir with a low cost of living. Immigration applications are increasing daily, and many individuals choose Turkey as a travel or migration destination due to its inexpensive costs compared to other European countries. Buca is also a great area to live in because the cost of living is inexpensive.
What are the Prices of Houses for Sale in Buca?
In Buca, all aspects of life are inexpensive and acceptable, including housing costs and related liabilities. As a consequence, you will be able to live comfortably and affordably. This entices many travelers to remain in this attractive and intriguing town.
Buying property in Buca allows you to quickly gain permanent residence. The number of comparable large-scale investment projects around Izmir is a decisive factor for investors. Urban transportation networks, pedestrianization, and traffic management have all improved significantly in the recent decade.
In Buca Izmir, the average square meter unit price is US$284.
With a 22% rise in international property acquisitions in Turkey in 2017, Izmir is best positioned to benefit from increased foreign investor interest. In reality, it’s the ideal seaside city for an Aegean trip.
What are the Rental House Prices in Buca?
Rent every month is US$75-200 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, US$50-120 for a one-bedroom apartment outside of the city center, US$130-380 for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center, Outside the city center, a three-bedroom apartment costs between US$220 and US$90.
What are Reliable Real Estate Companies in Buca?
Working with a knowledgeable and trustworthy top realtor can help you sell or purchase a house at the greatest price.
To help you make your choice, we’ve included some of Buca’s most well-known real estate firms below.
- Realty Group: Since 2009, Realty Group has been the most competent real estate company in Turkey. Clients may rely on their expertise to help them buy, sell, invest, manage, finance, or provide after-sales services until they gain Turkish citizenship. Buying a house in Turkey with them is not only successful but also hassle-free and stress-free, owing to their 11-year reputation founded on customer satisfaction.
- Skyturk Property: Sky Property was started to help businesses and people who want to buy or invest in real estate in Turkey get help from experts. Sky Property is a well-known real estate investment company with a well-known staff. Furthermore, our services are known for their trustworthiness, specialization, and high quality, among other things.
- Intro Property: At Intro Property Istanbul, their main goal is to provide honest and straightforward legal and real-estate consulting services. They do this by getting to know their client’s needs and finding projects from the most trusted developers in Turkey, as well as after-sale services, like renting your home or selling it, to getting residency in Turkey.
- Ultra Property: With its experienced management staff, and youthful, dynamic, and professional workforce, Ultra Property is a local firm established to give the most guaranteed projects in Turkey at the best pricing and finest quality service.
How to Provide Transportation in Buca?
It’s simple to get around in Buca. If you’re traveling across neighborhoods, take advantage of the local minibus system. These little buses seat about 20 passengers, although they use the larger buses that run from the central bus terminal to travel further out.
In popular neighborhoods, taxis are waiting for customers on most corners; otherwise, your hotel will call one to the reception. They are required by law to use meters; however, they may charge a predetermined cost for short travels within a specific area. Aside from that, Bisim, the city council’s bike rental service, is available. Credit cards or the Izmir Kart transportation card are accepted at stations positioned along the beach.
Is There an Airport in Buca?
Yes, there is Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport which is 18 km southwest of town. The airport had 12.8 million ADB travelers in 2017. To increase airport capacity, parallel taxiways were created. There are presently 61 remote parking places, eight of which are reserved.
How are the Health Services in Buca?
Buca’s medical services are of European caliber and are provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Buca features one state hospital as well as a handful of private clinics and hospitals. State hospital services have also improved to an excellent level in recent years.
Doctors can speak English in private hospitals, or there are foreign assistants on staff who can translate. Most European travel insurance is approved when visiting a private hospital in Europe. If it isn’t, remember to provide a medical report, a bill for services, and proof of payment, and your charges will be repaid in your nation. You may be able to get the money back for the suggested drug if you save the prescription and pharmacy bill.
Turkey’s dentist and optician services are outstanding and considerably less expensive than those found in many European nations. That is also why health tourism is on the rise in Turkey and Alanya. Without a doctor’s prescription, you may go to a drugstore and buy whatever medicine you choose.
What is the Nightlife Like in Buca?
Buca is one of Izmir’s liveliest towns, especially for night owls. Try locations with diverse music in Buca Osb. Buca’s nightlife is eclectic, featuring jazz clubs, hard-rock pubs, and laid-back and quiet bars. In one of Buca’s top nightlife places, you’ll see all the people hanging out at bars and dancing to local and foreign DJs. As it is situated in an ancient and gorgeous structure, every weekend is a large home party with lots of beverages from the bar. The house-bar hosts live music.
Izmir is Turkey’s third-largest city Its western, relaxed ambiance has impressed both Turks and foreigners for decades. Many first-time visitors to Turkey are shocked by the non-conservative culture that encourages autonomy, creativity, and innovation. The pursuit of leisure, whether chatting with friends, sightseeing, or hobbies, is generally promoted.
As the city attracts tourists from all over the world, especially during the summer, people must be aware of and accepting of diversity. Some foreign ex-pats and retirees reside here, adding to the variety. The city is modern and multicultural. As the region’s popularity grows, more people want to retire or live and work there. This article about why individuals choose Izmir as a place to reside may be valuable to you.
What are the Pros and Cons of Living in Buca?
Buca has the typical characteristics of the Mediterranean climate. It receives plenty of precipitation in winter and hot summers. It is not extremely cold. The undeveloped green areas and the Levantine mansions, each of which is an artistic marvel, offer a very satisfying environment for history lovers. It is possible to find a wide variety of places to visit in Buca with its historical houses, cultural values, natural beauties, shopping, and entertainment points. Teachersevi Street, where a street is full of cafes, is a nice place to spend time. You can also go to Ihlamuraltı and listen to beautiful folk songs, ask where tea was cheaper, and start researching. It takes five minutes to walk anywhere. Those who want to spend time outside can go down to Hasanaga Park, go shopping at Forbes or jump to Izban and go wherever they want. Buca is a relatively cheap place, especially in terms of rent.
Disadvantages of Buca: Buca has a cosmopolitan structure and is very crowded. It has an irregular zoning plan. The streets are not very clean. It is the district where irregular urbanization is seen most clearly. The slopes are steep and the streets are crooked.
What are the Places to Visit in Buca?
Izmir’s Buca district is one of the places to visit in Izmir, with its location 20 km from Izmir’s city center and close to the city’s tourist attractions. When you go to Buca, many beautiful places must be seen. Here they are listed below:
- Buca Pond: Buca Pond, which is a nature protection area in Buca, is located in the 29 October locality. The pond, which is 6 km away from the town center, takes about 10-12 minutes to reach the pond by car. For a calmer atmosphere, you can go on weekdays. Here, besides picnic areas; there are also areas such as barbecue places, pond bars, cafeterias, fish and meat restaurants, fast food restaurants, playgrounds, and viewing terraces. There are good places in Buca Pond for those who want to have a delicious breakfast accompanied by a magnificent lake view. Offering a magnificent pond and nature view, Buca Pond is open to visitors every season of the year. No fee is charged for entry.
- Sirinyer Love Road: Sirinyer Love Road, which is approximately 16 km away from the district center, is located in the Sirinyer District of Buca. The journey by private car takes an average of 30 minutes. Sirinyer Love Road is one of the historical and touristic symbols of Buca. Opened to the public in 1998, this road is also known as the Forbes Path of Love. On the path of love, which is an important entertainment and resting place in the district; is worth seeing with its mini-theatre, pool, and flower gardens. Sirinyer Love Road is open to visitors in all seasons. In the spring and summer months, the crowd increases with the warming of the weather.
- Protestant Baptist Church: The Protestant Baptist Church, located in Adatepe in Buca, is one of the historical symbols of the district. The church, which is approximately 15 km away from the district center; can be reached with an average of 20 km car journey by private car. Founded as an Anglican church in the 19th century, the Baptist Church previously served as an independent, small village church. The church, which was later renovated by the sultan of the period, continued to be used as a place of worship until the second half of the 20th century. This historical building was later used as a wedding hall and cultural center. The Baptist Church, which is an English parish church and has a cross-shaped floor plan, was later reopened for worship and continued to be used as a church. The church is open to visitors and admission is free.
- Buca Hasan Aga Park: Hasan Aga Park, located in Adatepe Neighborhood in Buca, is one of the tourist attractions of the district. The journey by private car takes an average of 20-25 minutes. Buca Hasan Aga Park, which also hosts the first ice skating area of the city of Izmir, also includes social facilities after it was opened to the public by the municipality. The old name of this park, which also includes a long walking and cycling track, is Aliotti Garden. The park is open 24 hours a day and the entrance is open. it is free.
- Kadifekale Mountain: Located in the Laleli locality of Buca, Kadifekale Mountain is approximately 20 km from the town center. The journey by private car takes an average of 30 minutes. To go by public transport, transportation is provided by the minibusses going to Laleli. The 35-meter high Kadifekale Mountain is one of the places that offer the most beautiful view of İzmir. This place was built by the order of Alexander the Great in 330 BC. Kadifekale Mountain, which is known as Pagos Mountain in history, had a very important place in the Roman and Hellenistic periods. According to the legend, Alexander the Great saw this mountain in his dream and had it built on the skirts of the city’s hill. Mount Kadifekale is ideal for witnessing magnificent views. Although it is suitable for visiting in all seasons, it is not recommended to go in rainy weather.
- Kaynaklar Village: Kaynaklar Village, which is 8 km away from Buca, is one of the historical regions of the district. Transportation by private car takes 15-20 minutes on average. You can also reach by public transport. Kaynaklar Village, which is one of the touristic attractions of Buca, got its name from the water sources that ran loudly here at the time. Offering a wide variety of natural landscapes, this village is also ideal for a pleasant village breakfast. Here are the places you can choose for breakfast; Bereket Organic Breakfast, Sirin Cafe Kaynaklar, Kamalı Breakfast Hall, and Cinarli Garden. Kaynaklar Village, which you can visit every season, is also suitable for those who want to camp alone with nature. It is also worth seeing with its roads covered with greenery and plane trees and its rushing streams.
- Yedigoller Park: It takes an average of 20-25 minutes to reach Yedigoller Park, which is 15 km away from Buca town center, by private car. You can also reach by public transport. Yedigoller Park, one of the tourist attractions of Buca, is visited especially by families with children and visitors coming to the district for holiday purposes, with its magnificent views, natural atmosphere, and social facilities. Yedigoller National Park in Bolu is built on an area of 100 thousand square meters, There are waterfalls, water wells, walking tracks, green areas filled with pine and palm trees, as well as areas such as an open-air disco, children’s playgrounds and viewing terraces in Buca Yedigoller Park, which was established with inspiration from you can visit. It can be preferred to have a pleasant time, especially on weekends, in the spring and summer months when the weather is warm. There is no charge to enter Yedigoller Park, which is open to visitors 24 hours a day.
- Kordon: Located in the Konak district of Izmir and one of the tourist attractions of the city, Kordon is 25-30 km away from Buca. In addition to walking with the magnificent views of Izmir Bay; Here, Kıbrıs Sehitleri Street, Kemeralti Bazaar, historical Izmir Greek houses, Gazi Women’s Street, and Can Yucel Street should also be seen.
- Sıgacik Village: Sıgacik, a village in the Seferihisar district, is located 70 km from Buca. This village, which took the title of Turkey’s first slow city, has gained increasing popularity in recent years. Among the places to visit here are; Sıgacik Castle, Sigacik Market, Kaleici streets, Teos Ancient City, Teos Marina, Degirmen, and Buyuk Akkum Beach are located.
- Cicekkoy: Cicekkoy, a village in the Bornova district, is 35-40 km away from Buca. With its nature views, you can visit Cicekkoy to get away from the crowded streets of Izmir, and it is frequently preferred by Izmir residents to have a natural and organic village breakfast.
- Buca Municipality Culture and Art Center: Levantine Haci Farkoh Efendi’s mansion, which had the sea transportation network of Izmir in the last years of the Ottoman Empire, was later used as a municipal service building. Today, the mansion, which is the home of art lovers, has been serving as the Buca Municipality Culture and Art Center since 2002. On the lower floor of the Buca Municipality Culture and Art Center, there is the exhibition hall named “Buca from Past to Present”, the chat room named after the folk poet of Buca, Arif Kayalı, the music section, the meeting hall, and the administrative section. On the upper floor of the center, there is a painting and sculpture art gallery, foyer, painting workshop, and guest room.
- Aqueducts: Aqueducts, which are located in one of the locations of Buca, the ruins of which were known as Paradiso and Kizilcullu in the past, and today as Sirinyer, have been able to protect themselves on the Melez Stream until today. These aqueducts, called “Akvaduk Aqueducts”, were regulating the flow of water coming to Izmir during the Roman period, covering the years 133 BC to 395 AD. The aqueducts, whose durability increased thanks to the materials used in their construction, were also used during the Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods.
- Ephesus Ancient City: Ephesus Ancient City is approximately 70 km from Buca. World famous for its history of science and art, the Ancient City is one of the most visited museums in Turkey.
- Sirince: Sirince is approximately 73 km from Buca. Historical buildings, wonderful nature, and wine shops in Sirince are worth seeing.
- Kemeralti Bazaar: Kemeralti Bazaar Historical Kizilaragasi is approximately 10 km from Buca. Continuing to keep its historical texture alive, Kemeralti Bazaar is among the important places of Izmir. The shops in the bazaar also offer special products for those who want to buy tourist items.