Small and Boutique Hotels in Safranbolu

Safranbolu, one of the centers of cultural tourism in Karabük, also has a deep-rooted historical heritage. Safranbolu's name in ancient times was “Paplogonya”. It is a town that has hosted many deep-rooted civilizations such as the Hittites, Persians, Romans, Seljuks and Ottomans. Safranbolu hotels are beautiful facilities where you can witness history and make you feel at home with their cultural texture and comfort. The operators are also the locals. And many of them inherited the hotel from their families. For this reason, they do their best to make you as comfortable as if you were at home. Most of the hotels are located in the center of the town. Safranbolu boutique hotels were formed by restoring the old Ottoman mansions. They have about 10-15 rooms and two or three floors. Safranbolu mansions are open all year round. However, our recommendation is to go to Safranbolu in winter to watch the snowfall or in spring. Then you will not get enough of watching the view of Safranbolu. In Safranbolu, listening to the sound of rain in the fall and watching the sun and the awakening of nature in the spring can be a beautiful experience.

When to go to Safranbolu on vacation?

The spring months are the ideal time to go to Safranbolu. During this period, the weather is usually mild and sunny. Flowers bloom as nature awakens and it is a great time to wander the historic streets and explore the historic houses. The summer months are when the most tourists come to Safranbolu. During this period the weather is warm and sunny, which is ideal for outdoor activities and strolling through the historic streets. However, it can be more crowded during the summer months and accommodation prices can be a bit high.  The fall months are a great time to explore the natural beauty of Safranbolu. The weather is still mild during this period, but the tourist crowds may be a little less intense. Also, the autumn leaf fall makes the historic houses look very beautiful among the colorful leaves. The winter months are a great time to experience Safranbolu's snow landscapes and winter atmosphere. However, during this period, the weather can be cold and there may be snowfall. Still, the snow-covered images of historical houses and winter festivals make this period attractive.

How to get to Safranbolu?

If you want to reach Safranbolu by bus, you can come to Safranbolu by using the city transportation vehicles after arriving in Karabük center. It is about 10 minutes away. You can also find direct bus services to Safranbolu from many metropolitan cities.   

For those who want to use the airline, the closest airport to the region is Ankara Esenboğa Airport, approximately 240 kilometers away.   

If you want to come by your own vehicle, those who will come from Istanbul and Bursa can come to the district by following the Karabük signs after passing Bolu. Some road information is as follows:

• Ankara - Safranbolu is approximately 230 kilometers and takes 2 and a half hours.
• Kocaeli - Safranbolu is approximately 320 kilometers and takes 3 hours 40 minutes.
• Istanbul - Safranbolu is approximately 410 kilometers and takes 5 hours.
• Eskişehir - Safranbolu is approximately 430 kilometers and takes 4 hours 50 minutes.
• Bursa to Safranbolu is approximately 430 kilometers and 4 hours 50 minutes.
• The distance between Izmir and Safranbolu is approximately 760 kilometers and 8 and a half hours.

What are the must-see places to visit in Safranbolu?

Everywhere in Safranbolu is a museum, everywhere is on the list of places to visit and see. You will really be fascinated and it will be a holiday where your list of things to see is quite fluffy.   

You can go to Hıdırlık Hill. Surrounded by castle walls, there is a mausoleum inside. Entrance is paid. From the summit, you can enjoy a picturesque view of the city as the morning light shines across. From this point, Cinci Han, historical mosques, and houses of different beauty stand shoulder to shoulder, forming a unique architectural texture.   

Another view can be enjoyed from the summit of the historic Safranbolu Clock Tower. The view from the slope, which is seen from the cobblestone streets, is the opposite side of the same history this time.
 Safranbolu has interesting natural beauties as well as historical monuments and houses. İncekaya Aqueduct and Canyon, Yörük Village with its magnificent houses, Bulak and Hızar Caves, rock tombs around Hacılarobası and Üçbölük Village, Düzce Canyon, Sarıçiçek Plateau and Uluyayla, Gürleyik Picnic Area are among the other areas worth seeing.   

If your vacation time allows, Yörük Village, 13 km. away from Safranbolu, is an open-air museum. Transportation is also possible by taxi. All of the houses and streets under protection are well maintained. Kaymakçıoğlu Mansion, Sipahiler Mansion, Wooden Mosque and the Laundry, which has been restored as an art gallery, can be visited. 

You can visit places known as İncekaya and Dana Village. You can go to Eflani Canyon. There are Museum Houses built by the Ministry of Culture, District Governorship and private initiatives in Safranbolu. The oldest one, the Kaymakamlar Museum House, organized by the Ministry of Culture and the Kileciler Mansion, restored and organized by the Safranbolu District Governorship, exemplify the old Safranbolu house and the way of life. You can visit this museum house. Other private houses that can be visited are Mümtazlar Mansion and Karaüzümler Mansion. The Ahmet Demirezen Yemenicilik Museum in Yemeniciler Arastası offers beautiful examples of the disappearing handicraft of Yemeni craftsmanship.

Other Attractions

• Cinci Han and Hamam
• City Museum
• Lonca Bazaar (Yemenis Arastasi)
• Blacksmith Bazaar
• Hıdırlık Hill
• Havuzlu Asmazlar Mansion

Shopping Recommendations in Safranbolu

Saffron: You can buy saffron, the spice after which Safranbolu is named, directly from local shops. Saffron is one of the world’s most valuable spices, and the high-quality saffron grown in Safranbolu attracts plenty of visitors.

Lokum (Turkish Delight) and Confectioneries: Safranbolu is known for its locally produced Turkish delights and other sweet treats. Made using traditional methods, these desserts are rich in flavor and sure to delight sweet-tooth visitors.

Local Handicrafts: Safranbolu is also famous for its handicrafts. You can explore historical bazaars and shops to find handwoven carpets, kilims, ceramics, copper works, and other handmade products. These items make for great souvenirs or home decor.

Traditional Clothing and Accessories: Safranbolu offers traditional Turkish clothes and accessories as well. You can find local garments, jewelry, and headscarves in the historic bazaars of the town.

Local Home Goods: The historical homes and their distinctive décor in Safranbolu are reflected in the local home goods. You’ll find intricately carved wooden furniture, ceramic decorations, copper items, and other regional home essentials that make perfect keepsakes.

Entertainment Suggestions in Safranbolu

Stroll Through Historical Streets: Walking through Safranbolu’s historical streets, where you can admire traditional Ottoman-era houses, is a delightful experience. The town's UNESCO World Heritage-listed houses offer a chance to immerse yourself in its rich history.

Explore Safranbolu’s Bazaars: Visiting the traditional bazaars of Safranbolu is a great opportunity to buy local handicrafts and souvenirs. Here, you’ll find copperware, handwoven carpets, ceramics, and many other traditional products.

Visit Historical Museums: Visiting Safranbolu’s museums will deepen your understanding of the region’s history and cultural heritage. Key spots include the Safranbolu Kent Museum, Safranbolu City History Museum, and İzzet Mehmet Pasha Mosque Museum.

Nature Walks and Outdoor Activities: The natural beauty surrounding Safranbolu offers excellent opportunities for hiking and nature sports. You can explore the Bulak Mencilis Cave, the Crystal Cave, or the İncekaya Water Arch, all of which are scenic and historical sites worth visiting.

Attend Local Festivals in Safranbolu: Participating in festivals held in Safranbolu is a fantastic way to experience the local culture and traditions. Especially in the summer, the Safranbolu International Children’s and Youth Festival offers an exciting cultural experience.

History of Safranbolu

Safranbolu and its surroundings were under the influence of the Bithynian Kingdom in ancient times, as evidenced by archaeological findings from the area. After the region came under the rule of the Roman Empire, it became part of the Byzantine Empire. During the Byzantine period, Safranbolu, with its strategic location on trade routes, became an important settlement.

In the 11th and 12th centuries, when the Seljuk Turks entered Anatolia, Safranbolu came under Seljuk control. This period saw Safranbolu become a hub of trade and cultural exchange. The town flourished further under the Ottoman Empire, which made Safranbolu a center of commerce, especially known for its iron and copper craftsmanship, contributing greatly to the local economy. The town's historical houses and strategic location on trade routes added to its wealth and significance.

After the founding of the Republic of Turkey, Safranbolu continued to thrive as a culturally and economically important town. Today, Safranbolu is celebrated for its well-preserved traditional houses, its place on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and its vibrant cultural heritage.

What is Safranbolu Famous For?

Historical Houses: Safranbolu is famous for its well-preserved Ottoman-era wooden houses. These homes reflect the traditional Ottoman architectural style and have been preserved as part of the town's UNESCO World Heritage status. These houses offer visitors a glimpse into the region’s history and charm.

Historical Bazaars: The historic bazaars of Safranbolu are bustling with traditional handicrafts and local products. Visitors can find copperware, ceramics, handwoven carpets, and more. The bazaars also serve as social and commercial hubs of the town.

Saffron Production: Safranbolu is known for its saffron cultivation. The saffron grown here is highly regarded for its quality, and the town’s name itself comes from this precious spice. The production and trade of saffron have a long-standing history in the region.

Local Delicacies: Safranbolu boasts a rich local cuisine. Regional dishes such as Safranbolu köftesi (a type of meatball), şekerpare (a sweet pastry), cevizli sucuk (walnut sausage), and un helvası (flour halva) represent the town’s gastronomic identity. Sampling these local delights is a must for food lovers.

Cultural Heritage: Safranbolu’s rich history and cultural heritage make it a popular tourist destination. The town is home to historical buildings, museums, and vibrant festivals, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the local culture and history.

Best Things to Do in Safranbolu

Explore the Museum-Houses: Many houses in Safranbolu serve as museums. You can visit museum-houses like the Hamamcıoğlu House, Asmazlar Mansion, and Hacı Bakioğlu House.

Hıdırlık Hill: A visit to Hıdırlık Hill will reward you with breathtaking views of Safranbolu. It’s a perfect spot for taking in the scenery and getting a panoramic view of the town.

Safranbolu Clock Tower: This historical clock tower is a prominent landmark in Safranbolu, and it’s a must-visit to understand the town’s rich heritage.

Cycling: Discover Safranbolu’s cobblestone streets by bike. Many places in the town offer bike rentals, allowing you to pedal through the historical town and admire its unique charm.

Golf Cart Historical Tour: You can take a golf cart tour through the town to explore the historical sites. These tours, which often include a guide, allow you to easily explore all that Safranbolu has to offer.

Nature Walks: Besides its historic architecture, Safranbolu boasts a stunning natural landscape. You can hike in areas like Şeker Canyon and Yenice Forests, discovering the town from a different perspective.

Photography: Safranbolu is like a living museum, where almost every street, house, and corner presents a perfect photo opportunity. You can capture the beauty of the traditional Ottoman houses and the town’s cobblestone streets.

Breakfast in Mansions: Enjoy a delightful breakfast or have a relaxing coffee break in one of Safranbolu’s traditional mansions. These locations provide a cozy ambiance, perfect for a calm moment.

Visit Historical Sites: Safranbolu has a wealth of historical places like mosques, hans, baths, fountains, and bazaars. Some notable sites include Bulak Mencilis Cave, İncekaya Water Arch, and Yemeniciler Arastası for shopping.

Eating and Drinking Suggestions in Safranbolu

In a town like Safranbolu, which has managed to preserve its cultural and historical values until today, the culinary culture is also very deep-rooted and rich. When you think of Safranbolu, you should definitely try Safranbolu Turkish Delight, which comes to mind first.   

Some of the local dishes unique to Safranbolu cuisine are walnut bow, whole meat dish, saffron zerde, saffron ashura, halushka, peruhi, Safranbolu bagel without sesame seeds, Safranbolu bending, well kebab, borana, bow soup, vinegared head, stuffed leaves with meat, bandırma and Safranbolu home baklava. Let's not exaggerate, but we say you should definitely try each of them.   

Apart from local dishes, you can also find places that make pancakes and grilled meat products, kebabs, pita bread in Safranbolu. Since it is a touristic region, there are flavors that can appeal to many different tastes.

Kadıefendi Et Lokantası, you can't get enough of the dishes prepared with meat. Kuyu kebab and meat bread are among the dishes you should definitely taste.

Safran Konak,The restaurant, which set out with the slogan of radical flavors in Safranbolu, is the only fish restaurant in the town. Creamy salmon and sea bass rolls are among the flavors that fish lovers should not miss...

Hanım Sultan,Located under the Cinci Hamam, the restaurant is one of the most beautiful stops where you can taste local delicacies. Don't leave without trying the stuffed leaves with meat and ravioli served in a copper pot.

Taş Ev Restaurant & Wine House,The restaurant, which attracts attention with its dim lights and stone architecture, promises a pleasant dinner with its delicious food and rich wine menu. Don't leave without taking a look at the gallery where various works of art are presented.

Arasta Kahvesi is a cozy Ottoman coffee house that has been serving for more than three centuries and should not be missed by anyone who has been to Safranbolu. An ideal place to start the day with Turkish coffee served with raspberry sorbet...