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Best Historical Villages in Turkey for Private Tours

Bursting with opportunities to relish its remarkable history, rich traditions and stunning geography, Turkey is perhaps most recognized among tourists for its iconic physical features and cosmopolitan cities. But there exist some splendid old villages as well begging to be visited which offer the most intricate details of Turkey’s history, and therefore are ideal for a personal visit. If you want to truly live and discover Turkish life and its traditions then these old villages are one of a kind.

1. Safranbolu: The Iconic Ottoman Village

A list outlining villages on the black sea or Turkey as a whole for that matter begins and ends with Safranbolu. The well preserved saffron town has now been transformed into a UNESCO World Heritage site and is widely known for its saffron along with its shady avenues and decorative houses.

Must-See Attractions in Safranbolu

• Walk around the Old Town to see various Islamic-style houses.
• Check out the old Cinci Hamam.
• Wander around the market, and buy saffron and other souvenirs.

2. Şirince: A Timeless Aegean Beauty

This stunning village located among the hills of İzmir Province Şirince, seamlessly integrates Greek and Turkish cultures and languages. Originally established in the mid-15th century by Greeks, this village is famous for its Greeks built stone houses, narrow streets, and wine produced in that region.

Why Visit Şirince?

• Explore the beautifully preserved architecture that tells stories of a bygone era.
• Taste homemade wines and olive oils from local producers.
• Discover authentic Turkish handicrafts at the village market.

3. Cumalıkızık: A UNESCO-Protected Ottoman Village

Located near Bursa, the village Cumalıkızık is a 700-year-old site that has been put under the protection of UNESCO and is commonly known as a living artifact decorated with Ottoman architecture and village life styles. This ancient hamlet is made up of cobbled pathways and colorful wooden cottages, and spans 700 years.

Top Things to Do in Cumalıkızık

• Walk through the narrow alleys lined with well-preserved Ottoman houses.
• Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast in a local garden café.
• Visit the Cumalıkızık Museum for insights into the village’s history.

4. Adatepe: Where Mythology Meets History

In Adatepe, which is located in Çanakkale and dates back to ancient antiquity, history is forever preserved through the slopes of Kaz Mountains. Its stone houses and tranquil olive groves make it the ideal retreat for history as well as nature lovers.

Why Adatepe is Special

• Visit the Zeus Altar, where mythology and panoramic views come together.
• Admire the well-preserved Greek and Ottoman architecture.
• Experience the village’s olive oil culture at the Adatepe Olive Oil Museum.

5. Taraklı: A Hidden Ottoman Gem

Taraklı, a well-known area in the Sakarya province, gives the people a chance to experience life in a village during the ottoman empire. It is a historical place that Contains very old mansions and rich calmness. thus providing an atmospheric trip back in time.

Highlights of Taraklı

• Marvel at the centuries-old wooden houses, including the iconic “Cihangir Mansion.”
• Relax at the healing thermal springs nearby.
• Wander through the peaceful streets, far removed from modern hustle and bustle.

6. Göynük: A Town of Towers and Traditions

Clock Tower and Ottoman architecture makes Göynük one of the picturesque village towns located in the Bolu province of Turkey. The village is encircled by thick green hills providing a different sense of place and life in it along with its culture which is interestingly at a slow pace.

Things to Experience in Göynük

• Visit the famous Göynük Clock Tower and capture stunning views.
• Explore the Akşemseddin Mausoleum, a historic spiritual site.
• Walk the scenic paths around the village, enjoying nature and history in harmony.

Exploring Turkey’s historical villages offers a unique way to experience the country’s rich heritage, away from the bustling cities. Be it the communitarian agriculture of Şirince, or The Classic of the charming cobbled streets of Cumalıkızık or the passive atmosphere of Adatepe, It’ll all feel completely different. To make this experience a fun filled memory for you, we allow our clients to take their time exploring the secrets the great land has to offer.