The Most Beautiful Villages You Need to Visit in Turkey

While city tourism is exciting, visiting villages in Turkey allows you to experience a distinct way of life. Some minor settlements are frozen in time, while others gained notoriety for a particular cause, and the majority never appear in tourist books and remain off the beaten path. While life seems to center around big cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, villages remain essential for many local cultures. In this article, we have listed the most beautiful villages in Turkey.

Simena

It's something unique when the best way to get to a community is by water. While many land travelers are unfamiliar with Simena, commonly known as Kalekoy, boats cruising the Turkish Riviera appreciate it. The Byzantine fortress, located near the submerged remains of Kekova, provides an unrivaled perspective of the peninsula. Despite its reputation on the posh and sophisticated sailing scene, Simena inhabitants do not try to be something they are not, which is why tourists fall in love with it.

Kayakoy

You might consider reading Louis de Bernieres' book before visiting Kayakoy ghost town. He was also the author of Captain Corelli's Mandolin. Kayakoy served as the scene for this fictional love story, which was set against Turkey's War of Independence and the circumstances that led to Kayakoy's ghost status. The Treaty of Lausanne terminated the once-thriving community of Turks and Greeks living side by side, and now visitors tour crumbling, roofless houses, churches, and schools, the sole relics of this once-thriving town.

Alacatı

Alacati, which sits next to Cesme, has grown in popularity as Turks seek traditional stone homes in the town center. It's simple to see why Alacati attracts tourists and retirees who want to get away from the noise and bustle of major cities. Cobbled alleyways, whitewashed buildings, and a relaxed Aegean lifestyle have made it one of Izmir's most popular tourist attractions.

Şirince

Sirince, the most renowned village in Aegean, Turkey, rose to prominence for its local wine manufacturing, using grapes from neighboring orchards. Wine is now available all around Turkey, and visitors may experience it in a variety of places. Admire the beautiful scenery or look for local ladies offering homemade items as souvenirs.