Quaint Turkish villages and scenic hideaways offer a peaceful contrast to Turkey’s bustling cities, such as Istanbul. In Cappadocia, villages like Göreme and Bezirgan highlight ancient cave dwellings and fairy chimneys, complemented by stays in boutique guesthouses that feature their own pools overlooking surreal valleys. Meanwhile, the UNESCO-listed village of Safranbolu steps back in time with Ottoman houses and cobblestone streets.
On the other end of Turkey, Mardin rises like a terraced amphitheatre above the Mesopotamian plains. From the natural wonder of Pamukkale to the legendary Hattusa ruins and the ancient crossing of the Hellespont, these destinations form a mosaic of Turkey’s rich past. However, the following are our notable picks of places that stand out, along with the reasons why.
The Best Turkish Villages That Everyone Should Know About
1: Assos on the Aegean Coast
This beautiful resort, officially known as Behramkale, is located approximately one hour's drive from Troy. Stone houses serve as boutique hotels, and charming restaurants line the water's edge, where a small, pebbly beach is ideal for swimming. On the hilltop, surrounded by olive groves, are the ruins of a 2,500-year-old Doric-style Temple to Athena. Nearby, the breathtaking 14th-century Ottoman Murad Hudavendigar Mosque is well worth a visit, and gives visitors incredible views over the Aegean Sea to the nearby Greek island of Lesvos. Belonging to the larger Ayvaclik region, which is a stronghold for Turks buying holiday and retirement homes, the most famous resident was the ancient philosopher, Aristotle. The ancient ruins are also listed on the UNESCO Tentative List, awaiting approval.
2: Sirince Near Ephesus Ancient Ruins
Although Turkey isn't famous for wine-making, in Sirince, locals have produced wine for thousands of years. This former Greek hilltop town, initially settled by enslaved people who were freed from the ancient city of Ephesus is today a tourist hotspot. Today, Sirince's cobbled streets are popular with tourists, especially on weekends, but are relatively quiet by September. Sample the olive oil, honey and nar eksisi, a type of vinegar made from pomegranate juice. Converted village houses serve as inns or rental homes, making Sirince a comfortable, convivial place for a late-season holiday. While there, take a detour to see the house where the Virgin Mary is said to have spent her final days.
3: Alacati and Cesme in the Izmir Region
Endlessly charming Alacati made its mark on the tourist map when a revival happened about ten years ago, and people flocked to the old town and excellent restaurants. Visitors love the restored stone houses and boutique hotels and inns, and visit for two food-related festivals: the April Herb Festival and the October Lost Tastes Festival. The towns earn fame for their lovely beaches and boutique shops. And, unsurprisingly, given its place on the food festival circuit, Alacati is home to superb restaurants specialising in local seafood. Alacati is also an upmarket destination for Turks to buy holiday and retirement homes.
4: Kalekoy - Simena
Also known as Simena, this seaside village is a pretty sight, with traditional white stone houses tumbling down the hillside, and caretta turtles swimming in the sea. In ancient times, Simena was a city divided into two parts: the island and the mainland. Later, it became an outpost of the Knights of Rhodes, who built the well-preserved castle. Inside is Lycia's smallest amphitheatre, and a Lycian necropolis at the eastern edge. Across the bay lie the sunken ruins of Simena, which were submerged in the sea in the second century after a series of devastating earthquakes.
5: Cirali and Olympos for Natural Beauty
This is two for the price of one, because even though hillsides separate these two villages, they share a long, pebbly beach, hence it is easy to get from one to the other. Officially part of the Antalya region and facing the Mediterranean Sea, Turkish culture shines brightly. Also near the famous Taurus Mountains, whether you camp in tents, bungalows, or stay in treehouse hotels, we guarantee that everyone will love this place. As part of Turkey’s famous Turquoise Coast, it sits on the Lycian Way trekking path that includes ruins from the Lycian League. The other main attraction to see is the burning flames of the Chimaera.
6: Selimeye Near Marmaris
Selimiye, a coastal village located on the Bozburun Peninsula, approximately 40 kilometres southwest of Marmaris in southwestern Turkey, is nestled along a protected bay. Selimiye has gained a reputation for serene atmospheres, crystal-clear waters, and low-key tourism. Selimiye has evolved into a favoured destination for authentic village charm and unspoiled beauty, while still offering modern amenities. The absence of large-scale development makes this area a popular stop along the Turquoise Coast.
7: Kabak and Faralya
Kabak and Faralya are two picturesque villages located along Turkey's stunning southwestern coast, near the popular region of Fethiye, which is home to many foreign expatriates. Easily reached from Dalaman airport, these neighbouring villages are part of the Lycian Way, a long-distance hiking trail that draws trekkers from around the world with beautiful countryside views.
Faralya is the larger and more developed area, offering panoramic views of Butterfly Valley (Kelebekler Vadisi), Babadag Mountain, and eco-lodges nestled among pine forests and terraced hillsides. Just a few kilometres further down a winding road is Kabak. With simple wooden bungalows, yoga retreats, and eco-friendly accommodations, Kabak boasts tranquil atmospheres, free from large hotels and resort developments.
8: Akyaka Coastal Town
Akyaka is at the eastern edge of the Gulf of Gökova in southwestern Turkey, about 30 kilometres from Marmaris and roughly 70 kilometres from Muğla. Nestled between lush, pine-covered mountains and crystal-clear waters, Akyaka is a favourite destination for relaxed atmospheres and traditional Turkish architecture. Akyaka is also a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, especially kitesurfers, thanks to the steady thermal winds that blow across the wide, shallow Akyaka Beach.
More Information About Turkey
Famous Turkish Cities: From famous Turkish villages to cities that put this country on the global map. If you want to swap the tranquillity of villages for urban living in Turkey, these cities perfectly portray life in thriving metropolises.
Famous Landmarks: The variety and exciting stories of famous Turkish landmarks easily impress everyone. Turkey has been home to many cultures and civilisations, from the ancient Greeks and Romans to the Ottoman Empire; hence, Turkey’s diverse cultural heritage boasts many famous Turkish landmarks.
Nezir Can 
Operations Manager
Nezir 'Nez' Can is Operations Manager at Property Turkey and a contributor on Turkish culture, lifestyle, and everyday life across the country. Since joining the company, he has helped international readers better understand what it is like to live, work, and settle in Turkey.
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