If you ever feel the need to step away from busy cities and experience the peaceful side of Turkey, Sirince is a place that feels almost like a hidden dream. Located near the ancient city of Ephesus and only a short drive from Izmir, this small hillside village offers quiet streets, traditional houses, friendly locals, and homemade flavors that leave a lasting memory.
The name “Sirince” means “pleasant” — and it truly fits. According to local stories, the village was once called “Çirkince” (meaning “ugly”) to keep outsiders away. Later, when its beauty became impossible to hide, it was renamed Şirince. Today, visitors come not just for the scenery, but for the atmosphere: a slow, relaxed rhythm that feels very different from typical tourist destinations.
Walking through Sirince feels like stepping into another time. The stone-paved streets are narrow and winding, lined with old Greek-style houses featuring wooden balconies and red roofs. The village is small enough to explore on foot, yet full of surprises around every corner — from handicraft shops to cozy cafes tucked between the hills.
One of the biggest attractions of Sirince is its food and local products. The village is famous for fruit wines, made from strawberries, blackberries, peaches, apples, and more. Almost every shop offers free tastings, and you can even buy bottles to take home. Homemade olive oil, jams, soaps, and dried herbs are also popular — perfect souvenirs that represent the village’s character.
A traditional Turkish village breakfast is a must. Many family-run restaurants offer outdoor terraces with views of the valley. Fresh tomatoes, olives, local cheese, warm bread, and honey from nearby farms create a breakfast experience that feels simple yet unforgettable.
While Sirince is small, there are plenty of activities to enjoy:
Explore traditional houses and take photos of the picturesque streets.
Taste fruit wines and visit small local shops for souvenirs.
Enjoy breakfast or coffee with a view of the hills.
Visit St. John’s Church, a charming hillside chapel with peaceful surroundings.
Take a short trip to Ephesus, one of the most important ancient cities in the world, located just 15 minutes away.
Spring and early fall are ideal for visiting Sirince, when temperatures are mild and the village is less crowded. Summer can be busier, especially with tour groups, but mornings and evenings still feel calm. If you visit in winter, you may even find a foggy, atmospheric version of Şirince that looks straight out of a movie scene.
What makes Sirince special isn’t only the views — it’s the feeling of slowing down. Many visitors say they arrive for a few hours and end up staying the whole day. Some even return year after year, just to enjoy the peace of this charming village.
If you’re planning a trip to western Turkey and looking for authenticity, nature, and a touch of nostalgia, Sirince might be exactly the kind of place you didn’t know you were searching for.
