Cittaslow celebrates towns that choose quality of life over speed. Türkiye — where “the good life” is a national art form — has some of the movement’s loveliest members.
Cittaslow (“Slow City”) is an international movement born in opposition to fast food and fast living. It celebrates towns that promote a high-quality, sustainable lifestyle, protect local culture and resist homogenisation. Unsurprisingly, Türkiye — where long breakfasts and tea by the sea are a way of life — has an impressive roster of member towns. Here are the best known.
Seferihisar — Where It All Began
Türkiye’s first Cittaslow, Seferihisar is a seaside haven on the Aegean near İzmir, on the road to Çeşme. It is home to the 4,000-year-old ancient city of Teos, famous clementines, and a serious commitment to renewable energy — much of the town runs on solar, geothermal and wind power.
Gökçeada — Türkiye’s Largest Island
Türkiye’s biggest island is also one of its slowest. Heavily wooded and remarkably self-contained, Gökçeada preserves 94 traditional recipes built on 16 indigenous island products. Almost everything you eat is grown on the island — a genuine world apart, perfect for a long weekend off the grid.
Akyaka — The Aegean’s Quiet Star
On the Gulf of Gökova in Muğla, Akyaka still feels like the small fishing village it has been for centuries, with distinctive timber Ula houses and the crystal-clear Azmak river winding to the sea. Once part of ancient Caria, it is only now being discovered — go before everyone else does.
Halfeti — The Sunken Town
On the banks of the Euphrates in Şanlıurfa province, Halfeti is a farming town with a haunting twist: much of the old village was submerged when the Birecik Dam was built. Today you glide by boat over the “sunken city,” past a half-drowned minaret — and Halfeti is also the home of the legendary black rose, which grows its darkest here.
Şavşat, Eğirdir & Göynük
Şavşat, in the green highlands of Artvin near the Georgian border, offers alpine meadows, wooden mansions and misty forests. Eğirdir sits on a peninsula jutting into its namesake turquoise lake in Isparta — one of Türkiye’s most beautiful lake towns. Göynük, near Bolu, preserves immaculate Ottoman houses and a centuries-old rhythm of life.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cittaslow?
Cittaslow is an international “Slow City” movement that certifies towns committed to sustainable living, local food culture and quality of life over speed and mass tourism.
Which Turkish towns are Cittaslow members?
Well-known members include Seferihisar (the first), Gökçeada, Akyaka, Halfeti, Şavşat, Eğirdir and Göynük, among a growing list.
What is special about Halfeti?
Half of the old town lies underwater after the Birecik Dam was built — boat tours glide over the sunken village — and Halfeti is home of the rare black rose.
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