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There are an array of things to do in Turkey, with Safranbolu sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled in the heart of Turkey’s Black Sea region, Safranbolu is a treasure trove of enchanting architecture, rich history, and culinary delights, waiting to be discovered.
From wandering through the winding cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old Ottoman houses to indulging in traditional sweet and savory dishes, there are plenty of things to do in Safranbolu that will leave you mesmerized and captivated.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Safranbolu:
1. Cinci Hanı
Historical Ottoman building, now a boutique hotel in Safranbolu.
What to see or do: Enjoy the unique atmosphere of an Ottoman Han with all modern amenities. Admire the traditional Ottoman architecture and design of the building.
Relax in the courtyard or read a book in the cozy rooms.
Don’t miss: The lovely breakfast served with fresh produce and homemade jams. The Turkish bath and sauna for a relaxing and authentic experience.
Insider travel tips: Book a room with a balcony to enjoy the stunning views of Safranbolu. Ask the staff for restaurant recommendations and try the local cuisine.
Visit the nearby historic sites and museums to learn more about the region’s rich history.
2. Hıdırlık Hill
Hıdırlık Hill is a historic hilltop with stunning panoramic views of Safranbolu and its surroundings.
What to see or do: Visit the Hıdırlık Tower to climb up and get a panoramic view of the city. Explore the surrounding area to see traditional Ottoman houses and buildings.
Take a relaxing walk around the hill and enjoy the scenic views.
Don’t miss: Watching the sunset from the Hıdırlık Tower, which offers a breathtaking and memorable experience.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as there are steep steps and cobbled streets to explore. Visit the hill in the early morning or in the evening to avoid the crowds.
Bring a picnic and enjoy the view at one of the many designated picnic areas.
3. Safranbolu Houses and Streets
Historic Ottoman-era town in Turkey known for its well-preserved traditional houses and streets.
What to see or do: Stroll along the narrow cobbled streets and admire the beautiful 18th and 19th-century Ottoman houses made of wood and stone. Visit the Cinci Han, a restored caravanserai that now houses shops and cafes.
Explore the local bazaar, where vendors sell spices, textiles, and traditional handicrafts. Visit the Hidirlik Hill for panoramic views of the town.
Don’t miss: The impressive Kaymakamlar Museum, housed in a former Ottoman mansion, where you can learn about the town’s history and culture. The impressive Cinci Hamam, a centuries-old bathhouse that has been beautifully restored.
Insider travel tips: Visit Safranbolu during the off-peak season to avoid the crowds and get a more authentic experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local cuisine, including Safranbolu lokum (turkish delight), Turkish coffee, and Safranbolu baklava.
If you have time, take a day trip to the nearby Amasra, a picturesque seaside town known for its stunning beaches and ancient ruins.
4. Cinci Hamamı
What to see or do: Enjoy a traditional Turkish spa experience in the historical Cinci Hamamı.
Relax in the steam room, receive a scrub down and massage from an attendant, and cool off with a refreshing dip in the cold plunge pool.
Don’t miss: The intricate marble architecture and traditional Turkish tile work throughout the hamam.
Insider travel tips: It is customary to bring your own soap and towel to the hamam. Women and men have separate sections, so be sure to check the schedule before going.
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
5. İncekaya Aqueduct
A historical aqueduct located in Safranbolu, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the impressive brick and stone structure of the İncekaya Aqueduct and appreciate its architectural design and engineering. The aqueduct is situated in a picturesque valley surrounded by verdant forests and hills, providing a scenic view.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a stroll on the walking path adjacent to the aqueduct for great views and photo opportunities.
If you are interested in history and engineering, visit the nearby museum to learn more about the construction and significance of the İncekaya Aqueduct.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit İncekaya Aqueduct during the daytime when there is ample daylight to explore and enjoy the scenic views.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen if visiting in the summer. There is a small entrance fee to visit the museum.
6. Kaymakamlar Müzesi
Kaymakamlar Müzesi is a museum located in Safranbolu, a well-preserved Ottoman-era town in Turkey’s Karabük Province.
What to see or do: The museum is housed in a restored Ottoman mansion that showcases traditional Turkish architecture.
Visitors can learn about the history of Safranbolu and its former governors through various exhibits, photographs, and artifacts displayed throughout the museum.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the room dedicated to Safranbolu’s famous saffron, where visitors can see the spice in its different forms and learn about its importance to the local economy.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in Safranbolu’s historic district and can be easily reached on foot from other attractions in the area.
7. Şemsi Ahmet Paşa Cami
Şemsi Ahmet Paşa Mosque is a historic mosque located in the Çukur neighborhood of Safranbolu, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a walk around the mosque’s beautiful garden and enjoy the mosque’s intricate Ottoman architecture. The mosque also has a small library and a peaceful courtyard.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the unique wooden balconies and craftsmanship inside the mosque, as well as the intricate floral designs on the walls.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the mosque. It’s recommended to visit the mosque during quieter times of the day for a more peaceful and authentic experience.
The nearby Safranbolu market and bazaar also offer plenty of opportunities to explore and shop for local goods.
8. Safranbolu Market
Safranbolu Market is a traditional bazaar located in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site town of Safranbolu, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the market’s narrow alleyways and admire the Ottoman-era architecture while shopping for local souvenirs such as fabrics, pottery, and bronze products.
The market offers a variety of spices, teas, and nuts characteristic of Turkey’s cuisine.
Don’t miss: Make sure to try the delicious Turkish delight and sample the region’s famous Safranbolu baklava while browsing through the colorful stalls.
Insider travel tips: Get there early in the day as the market can get crowded during peak hours. It’s recommended to bring cash as many vendors may not accept credit cards.
Bargaining is a common practice in Turkish markets, so be prepared to haggle for the best prices.
9. Kaymakamlar Evi
Traditional Ottoman house turned into a museum and cultural center located in Safranbolu, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can view exhibits showcasing traditional life in Safranbolu, including clothing, artisan crafts, and ancient tools. The museum also hosts cultural events and performances.
Don’t miss: The beautiful Ottoman architecture and impressive woodwork throughout the house, as well as the stunning views of the city.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the floors can be slippery, and bring a camera to capture the intricate design elements of the building.
Don’t forget to try the local Turkish tea and desserts served in the museum’s cafe.
10. Historic Clock Tower
The Historic Clock Tower is an iconic landmark located in the heart of Safranbolu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning Ottoman architecture of the tower and take photos of its intricate details.
At the top of the tower, there is a clock mechanism that still works today, and visitors can climb up the stairs for a panoramic view of the city.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the clock tower in action when the clock strikes the hour. It’s a beautiful sight to behold and adds to the charm of the historic town.
Insider travel tips: For the best view of the town and the surrounding hills, try to visit the Clock Tower in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is softer and more photogenic.
Also, make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the climb up the tower can be quite steep.
11. Archeological Museum
Archeological Museum in Safranbolu is a historical museum that showcases the cultural and artistic heritage of the ancient civilizations that have existed in the region.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore various artifacts, including pottery, coins, and sculptures, dating back to the Bronze Age, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman periods.
The museum houses over 6000 artifacts on display throughout its spacious halls.
Don’t miss: One of the most impressive exhibits is the collection of ancient, colorful mosaic floors excavated from the nearby city of Pompeiopolis.
Insider travel tips: – Consider hiring a local guide to help you understand the context and history behind the museum’s displays.
12. Köprülü Mehmet Paşa Mosque
Köprülü Mehmet Paşa Mosque is a stunning religious site located in the charming town of Safranbolu, Turkey.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the mosque and admire its beautiful Ottoman architecture, which dates back to the 17th century. The interior features intricate calligraphy and colorful tiles, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Be sure to stop by the nearby cemetery, where many prominent figures from Safranbolu’s history are buried.
Insider travel tips: Visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the mosque.
13. Tarihi Sokaklar
Tarihi Sokaklar (Historic Streets) is a charming neighborhood located in Safranbolu, a historic town in the Black Sea region of Turkey.
The streets are lined with beautifully preserved Ottoman-era houses, many of which have been converted into boutique hotels, cafes, and shops.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll down the narrow streets and admire the traditional architecture, including intricately carved wooden facades and ornate bay windows.
Stop by one of the many tea houses to sip on Turkish tea and people watch. Visit the Safranbolu Museum to learn more about the town’s rich history and culture.
Don’t miss: The Cinci Hamam, a historic Turkish bath dating back to the 17th century. It has been beautifully restored and is a must-visit for those looking to experience traditional Turkish bath culture.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some uphill walking.
14. Bakırcılar Çarşısı
Bakırcılar Çarşısı is an ancient bazaar that is located in Safranbolu, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Turkey.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the traditional shops and admire the handmade copperware, ceramics, and carpets. The bazaar offers a unique shopping experience where you can buy authentic souvenirs and witness Turkish craftsmanship at its finest.
Don’t miss: The chance to meet with the local artisans, who have been practicing their crafts for generations.
Be sure to take a close look at the intricate designs and patterns of the copperware, which reflects the traditional Ottoman style.
Insider travel tips: Take your time to explore the bazaar and immerse yourself in the local culture. Don’t forget to bargain when you buy souvenirs, but be respectful and polite when doing so.
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and to have a more peaceful experience.
15. Kılıçarslan Parkı
Kılıçarslan Parkı is a charming public park located in the heart of Safranbolu, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll along the park’s winding pathways, rest on the benches throughout the park, and enjoy the park’s vibrant greenery.
The park also features a small playground for children and picnic areas for families and groups.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take in the beautiful views of the city from the park’s hilltop location. You may also catch local musicians performing traditional Turkish music in the park.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the picnic areas and be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the park has sloping terrain.
If you’re visiting during the summer months, be sure to bring along sunscreen and plenty of water to stay hydrated while exploring the park.