Travel Highlights - Safranbolu

Safranbolu

Safranbolu is the best-preserved Ottoman-era town in Turkey. For those seeking to experience Ottoman-era attractions, it's a top choice. The entire town was designated a World Heritage Site in 1994. In the 17th century, Safranbolu was a key trade route along the Black Sea coast, earning it the name Safranbolu due to its abundant saffron production. Residents accumulated wealth through trade, leading to the construction of numerous mansions, leaving behind many of Safranbolu's architectural heritage.

A visit to Safranbolu primarily focuses on the Old Town, which boasts over a thousand buildings designated as historical monuments. The best way to experience the area is to stroll through the streets and soak in the Ottoman-era alleyways. There are also many Ottoman-era guesthouses where you can experience a truly Ottoman atmosphere. Located deep in the mountains, Safranbolu's traditional Ottoman architecture is well-preserved. The town's relaxed atmosphere and minimal crowds make it a pleasant place to explore. It's a must-see on any road trip to Turkey.

You can experience staying in a B&B from the Ottoman period, which has a very Ottoman atmosphere. Yes, we stayed in such a B&B this time, and it gave us a very nostalgic feeling. Their bathrooms have been modernized to match the rooms, but without losing the ancient style, which is just right.

The breakfast at the B&B is specially decorated in Turkish style, with several kinds of olives, cheese, various kinds of honey, salad, Turkish tea, and the lush green grass and big trees, it is very Ottoman style.

Safranbolu Morning Scene

Ottoman architecture

I don't know who raised this group of wild dogs. I was alone in the morning and they accompanied me everywhere to take photos.

City History Museum

This pale yellow building is a museum converted from the old government building. Admission is 5TL. It displays artifacts from Safranbolu's early days, and wax figures in the basement depict the lifestyle of its ancestors. The information is in Turkish, but after a quick tour, I discovered there's a free audio guide available at the counter (probably in English). While I'm not particularly familiar with local history, I found the view of the hillside city from outside quite captivating. If you're interested in Ottoman culture, I highly recommend this place. Behind the old government building is a clock tower, a true Ottoman-style bell tower.

I met this woman picking something up on the ground while walking. I looked curiously and found out that she was picking mulberries. White mulberries are rare and quite sweet.

White mulberries

Şehitlik Anıtı Monument

This Turkish bath, which is over 150 years old, is the most famous bath in Safranbolu.

I happened to meet Turkish primary school students on an outing here. At the teacher's request, I took a photo with the enthusiastic students.

Buying a Local Souvenir - Turkish Delight

On the way, we passed a Lati Delight shop filled with a wide variety of sweets, with a variety of flavors and beautiful packaging. We bought a few of their best-selling Turkish Delights as souvenirs. The Turkish Delight is incredibly sweet. It tasted good at first, but quickly became cloying. Two or three pieces paired perfectly with a cup of bitter Turkish coffee. They also sell saffron tea, a local specialty, and we bought some for our own consumption.

I tried the olive oil lotion and it felt good so I bought a bottle.

Cinci Hani Hotel & Restaurant

Cinci Hani, a caravanserai, was a rest stop for ancient caravans. Currently, the largest ancient caravanserai in Turkey is the Sultan Hani Caravanserai. We stopped by on our way to Konya after our trip to Cappadocia. It's now a hotel and restaurant, and the second floor houses a coffee museum. Tickets are required for entry, and they also offer a variety of Turkish coffees to order.

Before leaving Safranbolu, I took a photo with the owner of the B&B

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