Safranbolu

Safranbolu is a historical and touristic district of Karabük province, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List as one of the places where Ottoman architecture is best preserved. Named after the rare and valuable saffron plant that grows in the region, Safranbolu fascinates its visitors with its historical texture and natural beauties. Famous for its narrow streets, wooden mansions, bazaars and canyons, this charming town is an ideal destination for those looking for a quiet vacation. Here is a detailed list of places to visit in Safranbolu:

1. Safranbolu Houses

• Why Visit?: These houses, the symbol of Safranbolu, are among the most beautiful examples of 18th and 19th century Ottoman architecture. These UNESCO-protected buildings reflect the spirit of the district.
• Detail: Of the approximately 2000 traditional houses, 800 are protected. The houses are usually 2-3 storeys, filled with mudbrick on a wooden frame and built in such a way that they do not block each other's view. Their mortars, said to be reinforced with egg whites, are remarkable for their earthquake resistance.
• Visiting Tips: You can see these houses by walking around the bazaar or in the Bağlar area. Some of the houses serve as museums or hostels (e.g. the Kaymakamlar Gezi House).
• Location: It is concentrated in every corner of the district, especially in the Old Bazaar and Bağlar region.

2. Old Bazaar (Arasta Bazaar and Surroundings)

• Why Visit?: The heart of Safranbolu, this bazaar is full of shopping opportunities and streets full of history.
• Detail: The shops lining the narrow cobblestone streets sell saffron Turkish delight, handmade souvenirs, wood carvings and local products. Guild bazaars such as Yemeni Arastasi are also found here.
• Visiting Tips: Take a coffee break in the bazaar and try Turkish coffee with saffron. Early morning hours are ideal for taking photos.
• Location: In the center of Safranbolu, easily walkable.

3. Cinci Inn and Bath

• Why Visit?: These buildings, which were an important accommodation and trade center during the Ottoman period, are architecturally impressive.
• Detail:
  • Cinci Inn: Built by Cinci Hodja in 1645, the inn was a stopping point for caravans on the Silk Road. Today it is used as a hotel and cafe.
  • Cinci Hamam: Built in the same period, the hammam is still active and offers a traditional Turkish bath experience.
• Visiting Tips: You can drink tea in the courtyard of the inn and watch the view from the terrace on the upper floor. Make a reservation to relieve your tiredness in the hammam.
• Location: In the Old Bazaar.

4. Hıdırlık Hill

• Why Visit?: The best spot for a panoramic view of Safranbolu.
• Detail: Thought to be one of the first places where the Turks settled in Safranbolu, this hill is home to Ottoman tombs (such as Hasan Pasha Tomb) and mausoleums. In the past, Hıdırellez celebrations were held here.
• Visiting Tips: Visit at sunset and take a camera with you. There is also a tea garden on the hill.
• Location: Walking distance to the bazaar.

5. Crystal Glass Terrace

• Why Visit?: A thrilling spot that lays the magnificent view of Tokatlı Canyon at your feet.
• Detail: This 80 meter high glass terrace can support 75 tons of weight and is one of the first glass terraces in Turkey. It offers a great opportunity to watch the natural beauties of the canyon from a bird's eye view.
• Visiting Tips: Entrance fee is approximately 20-30 TL (subject to change as of 2025). Be careful if you are afraid of heights!
• Location: On Tokatlı Canyon, 8 km from the center.

6. Tokatlı Canyon

• Why Visit?: One of the most impressive spots of Safranbolu for nature lovers.
• Detail: This 9 km long canyon is formed by limestones eroded by the Hızar Stream. It offers activities such as hiking trails, picnic areas and horse riding.
• Visiting Tips: You can use the stairs near the Crystal Terrace to descend into the canyon. Take water and comfortable shoes.
• Location: 8 km from Safranbolu.

7. Incekaya Aqueduct

• Why Visit?: A masterpiece of Ottoman engineering, this arch combines history and nature.
• Detail: Built in the 18th century by Grand Vizier İzzet Mehmet Pasha, the 116-meter-long arch connects the two sides of Tokatlı Canyon. It was used as a historical water transportation system.
• Visiting Tips: You can walk over the arch and enjoy the canyon view underneath. Very close to the Crystal Terrace.
• Location: Near Tokatli Canyon.

8. District Governors Travel House

• Why Visit?: An ideal museum to understand the daily life and architectural details of Safranbolu.
• Detail: Built in the 19th century, this mansion reflects the Ottoman family structure. The woodwork, Ferris wheel system and wax sculptures bring the life of the past to life.
• Visiting Tips: The entrance fee is approximately 20 TL. It may be more informative to visit with a guide.
• Location: On Hıdırlık Yokuşu Street, close to the bazaar.

9. Bulak Mencilis Cave

• Why Visit?: One of the longest caves in Turkey, this natural wonder is perfect for those seeking adventure and discovery.
• Detail: 400 meters of the 6 km long cave is open to visitors. Dating back 3 million years, it offers a fascinating atmosphere with its stalactites, stalagmites and dripstone pools.
• Visiting Tips: The cave with 150 steps is cool, take a cardigan with you. The entrance fee is about 30-40 TL.
• Location: In Bulak Village, 8.5 km from the center.

10. Historical Clock Tower

• Why Visit?: Turkey's oldest working clock tower, this structure is interesting for history buffs.
• Detail: Built in 1797 by İzzet Mehmet Pasha, the tower is 12 meters high. The mechanical clock brought from London is still in working condition.
• Visiting Tips: You can visit the inside of the tower and examine the miniature clock towers in the garden. Entrance is free.
• Location: Next to the old Government House.

11. Yoruk Village

• Why Visit?: Yörük Village, an authentic village in Safranbolu, is a great stop to discover traditional Turkish-Turkmen life.
• Detail: Protected in 1997, the village resembles an open-air museum with its Ottoman-era houses and stone streets. There are still people living in the village.
• Visiting Tips: Take a break at the village café and taste local delicacies. It is 11 km from the center, easily accessible by car.
• Location: On the Safranbolu-Bartın road.

12. City History Museum

• Why Visit?: It offers a rich collection for those who want to learn the history and culture of Safranbolu in depth.
• Detail: Located in the former Government Mansion, the museum was built in 1906 and restored in 2006. It contains archaeological artifacts, ethnographic objects and exhibits on Ottoman-era life.
• Visiting Tips: Open 08:30-17:30 every day except Monday. Entrance fee is approximately 20 TL.
• Location: In the bazaar, on Government Street.

Bonus Local Flavor Stops

Do not return without crowning the pleasure of sightseeing in Safranbolu with local flavors:

• Saffron Turkish Delight: Buy fresh from the shops in the bazaar.
• Peruhi: A local type of ravioli, try it in restaurants.
• Bending: Spinach or minced meat pie, great for breakfast.
• Saffron Zerde: A light and sweet flavor.

General Tips

• When to go?: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are the most peaceful periods. In summer it is crowded, in winter it offers a quiet vacation with snow scenery.
• Transport: It takes 4-5 hours from Istanbul and 3 hours from Ankara. Minibuses leave frequently from Karabük.
• Accomodation: Boutique hotels or pensions can be preferred in historical mansions.

Safranbolu is one of those rare places that offers both history and nature in a compact space. With a 1-2 day trip, you can easily explore the places on this list and experience the elegant heritage of the Ottoman Empire and the natural beauty of the Black Sea! If you want information about any other place, don't hesitate to ask.