Unspoiled nature, rich history, and timeless charm await in these lesser-known Turkish gems.
When we think of Turkey, cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya often come to mind. But beyond the famous destinations lie villages that feel like time capsules—untouched by mass tourism, full of natural beauty, and steeped in cultural heritage.
Whether you’re craving a serene escape into nature, interested in heritage architecture, or simply looking for a new travel experience, these 20 beautiful Turkish villages are waiting to be discovered.
Note: Some entries include villages and neighbourhoods with village-like charm.
1. Birgi (İzmir)
Nestled in Ödemiş, Birgi is a well-preserved Ottoman village that looks like it leapt out of a history book. Wooden mansions, stone streets, and centuries-old plane trees offer a peaceful atmosphere. Don't miss the Ulucami, Karaoğlu Camii, and Derviş Ağa Camii for a step into Ottoman architecture.
2. Şirince (İzmir)
Famous for its whitewashed two-story houses, Şirince charms visitors with narrow cobblestone lanes, olive oil soaps, local wines, and sakızlı (mastic) Turkish coffee. Located near Ephesus, it's a perfect stop for history and culture lovers.
3. Cumalıkızık (Bursa)
An authentic Ottoman village just outside Bursa, Cumalıkızık features cobblestone streets and colorful wooden houses still inhabited today. It's the perfect place to experience traditional Turkish village life and taste homemade jams and gözleme.
4. Kilitbahir (Çanakkale)
Overlooking the narrowest part of the Dardanelles, Kilitbahir holds deep historical significance. Visit the Namazgah Bastion, take in sweeping sea views, and feel the legacy of the Gallipoli Campaign beneath your feet.
5. Kayaköy (Muğla)
An abandoned Greek village near Fethiye, Kayaköy is now an open-air museum with hauntingly beautiful ruins. Wander through empty stone homes and experience the rich yet somber history shaped by the 1923 population exchange.
6. Adatepe (Çanakkale)
Located on the slopes of Mount Ida, Adatepe offers clean air, stone houses, olive groves, and peaceful cafes. With proximity to both the Aegean Sea and lush forests, it’s a haven for wellness and tranquility seekers.
7. Yanıklar (Muğla)
Near Fethiye, Yanıklar is surrounded by citrus groves and quiet beaches. Ideal for those looking to escape the tourist crowds while still enjoying the Mediterranean sun.
8. Kaleköy (Antalya)
Only accessible by boat or on foot, Kaleköy combines Lycian ruins, crystal-clear sea, and charming stone houses. Whether you're hiking ancient paths or sipping tea by the water, Kaleköy feels like a dream.
9. Uçhisar (Nevşehir)
In the heart of Cappadocia, Uçhisar blends village warmth with iconic landscape. Climb Uçhisar Castle at sunrise or sunset for panoramic views of the fairy chimneys and hot air balloons dotting the sky.
10. Camili (Artvin)
Located in Turkey's first and only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Camili is a green paradise in the Black Sea region. It’s perfect for eco-tourism, wildlife observation, and peaceful forest walks.
11. Hamsiköy (Trabzon)
Tucked into the foggy hills of the Black Sea, Hamsiköy is famed for its rice pudding (sütlaç), but its real charm lies in its green valleys and cool mountain air—perfect for summer retreats.
12. Zeytinliköy (Gökçeada)
This picturesque island village is known for its stone streets, Orthodox churches, and olive groves. With a strong Greek-Turkish cultural blend and famous dibek coffee, Zeytinliköy is a feast for both eyes and taste buds.
13. Doğanbey (Aydın)
Once a Greek village, Doğanbey is now a charming settlement within the Dilek Peninsula National Park. Stone houses, narrow paths, and views of the Büyük Menderes Delta make this village a hidden treasure of the Aegean.
14. Apçağa (Erzincan)
Overlooking the Euphrates River, Apçağa is said to have inspired the poem "Orda bir köy var uzakta..." by Ahmet Kutsi Tecer. With traditional stone houses and lush mountain views, this village is poetry in motion.
15. Yörük Köyü (Karabük)
Often called the "living museum" of Safranbolu, Yörük Köyü features Ottoman-era homes, narrow stone streets, and an enduring Yörük (nomadic Turkic) culture. Don’t miss the iconic Sipahioğlu Mansion.
16. Faralya (Muğla)
Perched above the Butterfly Valley, Faralya is a cliffside village offering breathtaking views of the Turquoise Coast. Whether you’re hiking the Lycian Way or enjoying a yoga retreat, Faralya is a peaceful escape.
17. Gölyazı (Bursa)
Set on a tiny peninsula on Lake Uluabat, Gölyazı enchants with lakeside wooden boats, ancient ruins, and the 700-year-old Weeping Plane Tree (Ağlayan Çınar). Ideal for romantic getaways and photographers.
18. Kaynarpınar (İzmir)
In Karaburun, Kaynarpınar is a refreshing village surrounded by olive trees, natural springs, and untouched Aegean beaches. Its peaceful energy and clean waters make it a perfect wellness retreat.
19. Kozbeyli (İzmir)
Founded in the 15th century, Kozbeyli near Foça is a timeless village famous for its dibek coffee, stone architecture, and stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Sit under an olive tree, sip local coffee, and enjoy true village charm.
20. Maral Köyü (Artvin)
Near the Georgian border in the Black Sea highlands, Maral Köyü is famous for the stunning Maral Waterfall, cascading 63 meters into a lush forest basin. Wooden homes and organic farming preserve its authentic character.
Final Thoughts
From sun-drenched coastal villages to misty highland hideaways, these 20 hidden villages in Turkey offer a wide range of experiences for travelers and nature lovers. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a hiking adventure, or seeking cultural inspiration, these villages remind us of the beauty that lies off the beaten path.
