Weekend Getaway: Safranbolu, a Nearby Destination Worth Exploring

Safranbolu, with its old houses and narrow streets, drags you into dreams and hidden pages of history; it awaits you this weekend with its friendly people, delicious foods, and centuries-old culture.

We are not entirely sure if two days are enough, but one thing is certain, the taste of Safranbolu will linger on your palate! 

AUTUMN ROUTES: SAFRANBOLU #yapikrediadiosilegeziyos #adiosrotalari let’s start then...

 If you want to live the past, feel the scent of the past, and experience old-time love on cobblestone pavements, Safranbolu is the perfect place for that. Especially if you stay in old mansion hotels and sip coffee on charcoal at the bazaar coffee house, no one can match your joy. 

Feel free to add your recommendations from Safranbolu to the comments!

 Due to its abundance of saffron, it was initially named Safranbolu, which later became Safranbolu. It’s a town on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Safranbolu is a town with cobblestone streets, nestled among many hills, so especially speaking to my female readers; do not wear high heels! With its tile roofs and typical charming wooden Ottoman houses, artisans and historical bazaar, lush nature, narrow streets, delicious Turkish delight, and cuisine… Staying in historical mansions, which were once local people's homes and have recently been converted into small hotels, is like living in the past... Yörük Village, Mencilis Cave, Observation Terrace, and delightful museums are in and around the center, and I will discuss all of these.

Safranbolu has approximately 1200 historical artifacts under protection. The history of wooden houses dates back more than 200 years. You can smell the wood everywhere in your room, and each house has a different story to tell you. The windows of the houses are covered with colorful bougainvilleas. You feel refreshed walking through the streets. The people are very friendly, and the old neighborhood culture is still alive. Especially in spring and summer, the streets come alive with the sounds of joyfully playing children.

Safranbolu, the most popular and developed district of Karabük, is also about 200 kilometers from Ankara. The Safranbolu hotel where you will stay has started serving by restoring historic Ottoman mansions, operated by locals. Most have a beautiful garden and are usually two-story houses with 8 - 10 rooms. They fully reflect the texture of the region.

A weekend filled with beautiful discoveries and a journey into the mystery of history awaits you in Safranbolu; it’s a good choice.

Your camera will be your best friend; there are many superb frames to capture here!

Check out our editor's recommendations for Safranbolu Hotels: www.kucukoteller.com.tr/safranbolu-otelleri.html

 What and Where to Eat in Safranbolu? 

From Turkish delight to pilaf, pit kebab to desserts, there are many delicious dishes. Also, try stuffed grape leaves, pastries, and homemade baklava. @kadiefendietlokantasi You must eat pit kebab and meat bread with a magnificent nature view. Don’t leave without having breakfast in the hidden paradise stone mill. Definitely try water pastry, and don't leave without buying saffron and saffron cologne. Baglar soda and Safranbolu simit duo are amazing, try them! 

Safran Konak: The only fish restaurant in the town with the slogan radical flavors, you shouldn’t miss creamy salmon and sea bass wrap... 

Hanım Sultan: Located under Cinci Bath, this restaurant is one of the best spots to taste regional flavors. Don't leave without trying meat-stuffed grape leaves and dumplings served in a copper pot. 

Taş Ev Restaurant & Wine House: Notable for its dim lights and stone architecture, this restaurant promises a delightful dinner with delicious meals and a rich wine menu. Don’t leave without visiting its gallery showcasing various artworks. 

Places You Must See in Safranbolu: 

Bulak Cave and Bulak Canyon, look at Tokatlı Canyon from Crystal Glass Terrace, visit Valla and Horma canyons and Ilıca Waterfall near Pınarbaşı in Kastamonu, 70 km away, and don’t miss Incekaya Aqueduct. You can visit Cinci Inn near the bazaar. Go to Hıdırlık Hill, surrounded by castle walls, which has a shrine and requires an entrance fee. From the summit, the city faces the morning light like a painting. From this point, Cinci Inn, historic mosques, and various beautiful houses stand shoulder to shoulder creating an unparalleled architectural texture.
In addition to its historical and architectural attractions, Safranbolu also boasts captivating natural beauties. Incekaya Aqueduct and Canyon, the majestic houses of Yörük Village, Bulak and Hızar Caves, the rock tombs near Hacılarobası and Üçbölük Village, Düzce Canyon, Sarıçiçek Highland, and Uluyayla, Gürleyik Picnic Area are among the top sights to see. Things to Do Before Leaving Safranbolu: Don’t leave without sitting in Asma Altı and having a coffee made on embers in the Arasta bazaar, where local handicrafts are sold! Golf cart historical tours: You can tour historical sites in central Safranbolu departing from the square in golf carts. These tours, which also offer guide services, allow you to easily explore all of Safranbolu. I also recommend watching Süha Arın's documentary "Time in Safranbolu." Life is in the details😊 enjoy your trip…