Safranbolu's Old Town district of Çarsi is a UNESCO-protected site, where narrow cobblestone alleyways wind up the hillside, lined by squeezed-together Ottoman timber-framed mansions.
Safranbolu became a rich city of traders and merchants in the 17th century, and its character has been thoroughly preserved.
Many of the old houses are now gorgeously restored boutique hotels and restaurants. A couple have been converted into interesting museums, where you can experience a slice of wealthy Ottoman life.
