2-Day Local Experience: Food, Wine, Shopping in Safranbolu, Turkey
Safranbolu, Turkey
2 days
About Safranbolu, Turkey
Discover the enchanting town of Safranbolu, Turkey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Ottoman era houses and architecture. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town, where traditional Turkish crafts, tea houses, and sweet shops abound. Visit the historic Cinci Hamam, a 17th-century Turkish bath, and the grand Safranbolu City History Museum. Explore the Incekaya Aqueduct offering breathtaking views of the surrounding nature. Don't miss the chance to taste the famous Safranbolu lokum (Turkish delight) and saffron-infused dishes. Safranbolu offers a unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, making it a must-visit destination for every traveler.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Visiting the Incekaya Aqueduct and Enjoying Local Wine
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the Incekaya Aqueduct. This impressive structure offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Don't forget to bring your camera!
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant, trying out more Turkish delicacies. Don't miss out on 'pide', a Turkish pizza, and 'ayran', a traditional yogurt drink.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon exploring the Cinci Hamam, a historical Turkish bath. Afterwards, visit the Local Vineyards for a wine tasting session. Safranbolu is known for its high-quality wines.
Dinner
Enjoy your last dinner in Safranbolu at a local restaurant. Try 'doner kebab', a popular Turkish dish, and 'raki', a traditional Turkish spirit.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Safranbolu Amusement Park. Enjoy the various rides and attractions, and don't forget to try some 'simit', a Turkish bagel, from a local vendor.
Attractions in Itinerary (8)
1Old Town
A well-preserved district that reflects the traditional Ottoman architecture. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site offering a glimpse into the past with its narrow cobbled streets, old houses, and historical monuments.
2Safranbolu City History Museum
This museum showcases the rich history and culture of Safranbolu and the surrounding region. It features exhibits on Ottoman era artifacts, traditional Turkish crafts, and local history.
3Local Bazaar
A bustling marketplace where you can buy local products, including the famous Safranbolu saffron, traditional Turkish sweets, handmade crafts, and more.
4Safranbolu Stream
A beautiful stream running through the heart of Safranbolu, offering picturesque views and a tranquil environment.
5Incekaya Aqueduct
This historic aqueduct offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.
6Cinci Hamam
A traditional Turkish bath dating back to the Ottoman era. Visitors can experience a traditional Turkish bath in a historic and beautifully decorated setting.
7Local Vineyards
Experience the local wine culture by visiting the vineyards around Safranbolu. Taste the unique flavors of the region and learn about the wine-making process.
8Safranbolu Amusement Park
This amusement park offers a variety of rides and attractions for all ages, making it a fun destination for families.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Lokum
A traditional Turkish delight made with saffron, which is a specialty of Safranbolu.
Bükme
A traditional pastry made with layers of thin dough, filled with cheese or minced meat, and baked until golden brown. It's a popular breakfast item in Safranbolu.
Zerde
A saffron-infused rice pudding that is a signature dessert of Safranbolu.
Köfte
A local version of the Turkish meatball, made with minced meat, bread crumbs, and spices. It's a popular main course in Safranbolu.
Gözleme
A traditional Turkish flatbread filled with various ingredients like spinach, cheese, or potatoes. It's a common street food in Safranbolu.
Ayva Tatlısı
A sweet dessert made from quince, sugar, and cloves, often served with cream or ice cream. It's a winter specialty in Safranbolu.
Simit
A circular bread, typically encrusted with sesame seeds. It's a popular snack or breakfast item in Safranbolu.
Turkish tea
A traditional Turkish tea, often enjoyed throughout the day in Safranbolu.
Boza
A thick, slightly fermented drink made from bulgur, sugar, and yeast. It's a traditional winter drink in Safranbolu.
Salep
A warm, creamy drink made from the tubers of the orchid genus Orchis. It's a popular winter beverage in Safranbolu.
Tarhana Çorbası
A traditional soup made from a fermented mixture of grain and yogurt. It's a staple dish in Safranbolu.
Safranbolu Yaprak Sarması
Stuffed grape leaves typically filled with rice, onion, and spices. It's a popular appetizer or side dish in Safranbolu.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Safranbolu, Turkey is between late spring and early autumn, specifically from May to October. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city's historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. The city is particularly beautiful in October when the Safran flower, from which the city gets its name, is in bloom. However, if you're interested in experiencing local festivals, July is a great time to visit as the city hosts the Golden Saffron Documentary Film Festival.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
April 9 | Tue | Ramadan Feast Eve |
April 10 | Wed | Ramadan Feast |
April 11 | Thu | Ramadan Feast Holiday |
April 12 | Fri | Ramadan Feast Holiday |
April 23 | Tue | National Sovereignty and Children's Day |
May 1 | Wed | Labor and Solidarity Day |
May 19 | Sun | Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day |
June 15 | Sat | Sacrifice Feast Eve |
June 16 | Sun | Sacrifice Feast |
June 17 | Mon | Sacrifice Feast Holiday |
June 18 | Tue | Sacrifice Feast Holiday |
June 19 | Wed | Sacrifice Feast Holiday |
July 15 | Mon | Democracy and National Unity Day |
August 30 | Fri | Victory Day |
October 29 | Tue | Republic Day |
How to get around
Walk
Safranbolu is a small town and most of its attractions are within walking distance. It's a great way to explore the town's charming streets and historical houses.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Safranbolu. They can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They are a convenient way to get around, especially if you're carrying heavy luggage or travelling with a group.
Minibus (Dolmuş)
Dolmuş is a shared taxi or minibus system in Turkey. In Safranbolu, they operate on fixed routes and are a cheap and efficient way to travel around the town and to nearby attractions.
Car Rental
If you prefer to have more flexibility, you can rent a car. There are several car rental companies in Safranbolu. Remember to drive on the right side of the road in Turkey.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber are not available in Safranbolu. However, local taxi services function in a similar way and can be booked via phone or apps.
Bicycle
Bicycles can be rented from several locations in Safranbolu. It's a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the town and its surroundings. However, be aware that the town has some steep hills.
Bus
There are regular bus services from Safranbolu to other cities in Turkey. The bus station is located on the outskirts of the town. Local minibuses (dolmuş) can take you there from the town center.
Important information
Currency₺ TRY
Time zoneUTC+3
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112; Fire: 112; Police: 112
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Safranbolu, Turkey as a first time visitor
1
Safranbolu is a city in the Karabük Province in the Black Sea region of Turkey.
2
The city is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its well-preserved Ottoman era houses and architecture.
3
The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors.
4
The official language is Turkish. English is not widely spoken, so learning a few basic Turkish phrases can be helpful.
5
Safranbolu has a temperate oceanic climate. The average temperature in summer (June to August) is around 77°F (25°C) and in winter (December to February) it's around 37.4°F (3°C).
6
The city is safe for tourists, but like anywhere, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
7
Public transportation is available and reliable. You can use minibuses (dolmuş) to get around the city.
8
Tipping is customary in Turkey. It's common to leave a 10% tip in restaurants and cafes.
9
The city is known for its traditional Turkish baths (hamams). It's a must-try experience when you're in Safranbolu.
10
Safranbolu is famous for its saffron production. You can buy high-quality saffron from local markets.
11
The city has a rich culinary scene. Don't miss out on trying local dishes like Safranbolu Muhlama (a cornmeal dish with cheese) and lokum (Turkish delight).
12
The city is also known for its traditional crafts, especially shoe-making. You can buy handmade leather shoes as a souvenir.
13
The best time to visit Safranbolu is during spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant.
14
Remember to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should carry a scarf to cover their heads.
15
It's important to respect local customs and traditions. Turkish people are generally very hospitable and appreciate it when visitors show an interest in their culture.
16
Smoking is prohibited in public places in Turkey, including restaurants and cafes.
17
Turkey uses the Type F power plug, so you may need to bring an adapter if your devices use a different type.
18
The country code for Turkey is +90. You might want to get a local SIM card for cheaper calls and data.
19
Tap water is generally safe to drink in Safranbolu, but bottled water is widely available and recommended for tourists.
20
Healthcare facilities in Safranbolu are adequate, but for serious medical issues, you may need to travel to larger cities like Ankara or Istanbul.
Basic Turkish to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Merhaba | mehr-HAH-bah | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Hoşça kal | hosh-cha-kal | Saying goodbye |
Please | Lütfen | loot-fen | Making a request |
Thank you | Teşekkür ederim | teh-shehk-oor ed-AIR-im | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Evet | eh-vet | Affirming |
No | Hayır | HAH-yuhr | Denying |
Excuse me | Affedersiniz | ah-FEH-dehr-sin-iz | Getting attention/ apologizing |
I don't understand | Anlamıyorum | AHN-lah-muh-YOHR-uhm | When you don't understand what was said |
Do you speak English? | İngilizce konuşuyor musunuz? | EEN-gee-LEEZ-jay koh-NOO-shoo-yor moo-SOO-nooz | When you need to communicate in English |
Where is...? | ... nerede? | ... neh-REH-deh | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Tuvalet | too-VAH-let | Looking for a restroom |
Help! | Yardım! | YAR-duhm | In case of emergency |
Food | Yemek | YEH-mek | When looking for food |
Water | Su | soo | When asking for water |
Hotel | Otel | OH-tel | When looking for accommodation |
Taxi | Taksi | TAK-see | When you need a taxi |
How much? | Ne kadar? | NEH kah-DAR | When asking for the price |
I'm sorry | Özür dilerim | OZ-oor dee-LAY-rim | Apologizing |
Good morning | Günaydın | GOO-nigh-duhn | Morning greeting |
Good night | İyi geceler | EE-yee GEH-je-lair | Nighttime greeting |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Comfortable walking shoes
Sleepwear
Light jacket or sweater
Swimwear (if planning to visit a hammam)
Sunglasses
Hat for sun protection
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Sunscreen
Hand sanitizer
Prescription medications
First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash (both local currency and USD)
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Universal power adapter
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-reader for travel downtime
Travel guidebook for Safranbolu
Turkish phrasebook or language app
Umbrella or raincoat (depending on the season)
Backpack or day bag for daily excursions
Weather Conditions
Safranbolu, Turkey, is a city known for its well-preserved Ottoman era houses and architecture. The weather in Safranbolu can vary greatly depending on the time of year you plan to visit. During the summer months, from June to August, Safranbolu experiences warm weather with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). It's a great time to explore the city's outdoor attractions, but remember to stay hydrated and wear sun protection, as the sun can be quite strong. The fall months, from September to November, see a drop in temperature, ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). This is a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather. The city's fall foliage is also quite beautiful. Winter, from December to February, can be quite cold with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C). Snowfall is common during these months, which can add a magical touch to the city's historic architecture. However, it's important to pack warm clothing and be prepared for possible travel disruptions due to the weather. Spring, from March to May, sees temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). This is another great time to visit, as the city is in full bloom and the weather is generally pleasant. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to ensure you pack appropriately. Also, keep in mind that weather can change quickly, so it's always a good idea to have a flexible itinerary.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 8° / -2° | January is the coldest month in Safranbolu, with occasional snowfall. Dress warmly and enjoy the winter scenery. |
February | 9° / -1° | February is still quite cold, with a chance of snow. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy winter activities. |
March | 14° / 2° | March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures starting to rise. The weather can still be unpredictable, so pack layers. |
April | 18° / 6° | April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city and its surroundings. |
May | 22° / 10° | May offers warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities. The city is in full bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit. |
June | 26° / 14° | June marks the start of summer, with long, sunny days. It's an ideal time for sightseeing and exploring the local beaches. |
July | 29° / 17° | July is the hottest month in Safranbolu. Stay hydrated and take advantage of the many water activities available. |
August | 29° / 17° | August is equally hot, with plenty of sunshine. Enjoy the summer festivals and the vibrant nightlife. |
September | 25° / 13° | September brings cooler temperatures, making it a comfortable time to visit. The city is less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience. |
October | 20° / 8° | October offers mild weather, perfect for exploring the city. The fall foliage makes for beautiful scenery. |
November | 16° / 4° | November sees a drop in temperature, with the onset of winter. It's a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists around. |
December | 10° / 0° | December is a chilly month, with the possibility of snow. It's a magical time to visit, with Christmas decorations lighting up the city. |
Did you know?
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