Turkey now has nine villages recognized by the United Nations as the world’s best tourism villages.
Four picturesque Turkish villages were included in the “Best Tourism Villages for 2025” list by UN Tourism. Akyaka in Mu?la, Barbaros in ?zmir, An?tl? in Mardin, and Kale ??a??z in Antalya were recognized for their harmony with nature, long-standing cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism practices. Hidden among Anatolia’s mountains, seas, and stories, these selected villages earned the “Best Tourism Village” certification during a ceremony in Huzhou, China.
Following the inclusion in previous years of Tarakl? in Sakarya Province, Mustafapa?a in Nev?ehir Province, Birgi and ?irince in ?zmir Province, and Ormana in Antalya Province, the Best Tourism Villages of 2025 have placed Turkey among the world’s leading destinations for agritourism experiences. With the addition of the four new villages, Turkey now has nine villages awarded by the United Nations as the world’s best tourism villages.
Akyaka: A seaside paradise with a relaxed pace
Akyaka, located north of Marmaris in Mu?la Province, is a peaceful town nestled between lush green mountains and turquoise waters, surrounded by pine and eucalyptus trees, with the Azmak River running through its center. This natural environment makes Akyaka ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities, from windsurfing and cycling to kitesurfing and hiking. However, Akyaka is not only an adventure destination but also an architectural gem, with traditional Ula-style houses influenced by Ottoman design and seaside life. Visitors can admire the cultural heritage of Caria’s ancient civilizations, enjoy a culinary scene rich in seafood and meze, and experience a slower, more relaxed lifestyle away from the crowds. Akyaka is also a member of the international Cittaslow network, emphasizing its commitment to sustainable and slow living.
Barbaros: A village of local experiences
Barbaros is another charming Turkish village, located a short drive from Urla in ?zmir, an emerging gastronomic hub. It is known for its vernacular stone architecture, culinary delights, hospitable residents, local products, and traditional handicrafts. Visitors strolling through its narrow streets can knock on doors marked “?at Kap?” (“knock and enter”) and sample homemade specialties prepared with local olive oil, vegetables, and herbs at very reasonable prices. Only three kilometers away begins the Urla Vineyard Route, home to a new generation of winemakers and restaurants featured in the MICHELIN Guide. Additionally, in spring, visitors can take part in the Oyuk (Scarecrow) Festival and admire handmade scarecrows adorning the streets.
An?tl?: A multicultural corner with history
An?tl? is located in the Midyat district of Mardin Province, an area where Assyrian, Muslim, Yazidi, and Christian communities have long lived in harmony. The monasteries in this village, founded by early Christian communities and still thriving today, are among the must-see sites. The morning and evening services at the Church of the Virgin Mary, special ceremonies held every 15 days, and religious celebrations during Christmas and Easter make the village particularly attractive for visitors interested in religious tourism. Visitors can also explore the churches and monasteries of the wider Midyat region, known as Tur Abdin, which was added to UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List in 2021. They can enjoy events such as the Midyat International Culture and Art Festival, taste local delicacies like black chickpea stew, almond desserts, and Assyrian wines, purchase traditional souvenirs such as scarves, and take part in village activities like sheep milking and fruit harvesting with locals.
Kale ??a??z: A hidden gem with traces of Lycian culture
Kale ??a??z is a coastal village with a unique past, located in the Demre district of Antalya, at the heart of the Turkish Riviera. Also known as the “Castle Village,” Kale (Simena) ??a??z (Theimioussa) is a tranquil destination tucked away from main roads, where visitors can enjoy crystal-clear waters and rich cultural treasures. The village serves as a gateway to the famous long-distance hiking trail, the Lycian Way. From the village, which offers easy access to Kekova Island and the sunken city of Simena, visitors can take boat trips to explore various bays or discover ancient ruins by kayak. The origins of Kale ??a??z date back centuries, with remnants of its rich past visible throughout its streets and landmarks. The village also enchants visitors with its olive-covered hills, stone houses adorned with bougainvillea, and a small harbor filled with fishing boats, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere.
