Sirince

The basics

Şirince provides a lovely glimpse into the slow pace of village life, and there are plenty of activities for different types of travelers. For history buffs, a tour of the ancient Greek ruins of Ephesus or a visit to the Temple of Artemis is a must. Adventurous folks will love hiking in the nearby mountains and enjoying breathtaking views of the landscapes. Şirince is also known for its wineries that produce some of the finest wine and olive oil in the region, so a wine-tasting experience is a must for any traveler looking to indulge in local flavors.

Most tourists tend to visit Şirince for one day as part of excursions to nearby Selçuk, but there’s a handful of guesthouses and cafés for overnight guests as well. Just be aware that the village gets very crowded on the weekends.

Things to know before you go

• Try to book a night at one of Şirince’s hotels and guesthouses—it’s a great way to experience traditional Turkish hospitality away from the crowds.

• Be sure to sample the village’s namesake wine during your visit.

• If you want to explore the village independently, catch one of the local buses that run from Selçuk to Şirince throughout the day.

How to get there

Şirince can be reached by car, bus, or train from Istanbul or Izmir. The journey takes around 3–4 hours by car or bus from Istanbul and around 1–2 hours by train from Izmir. Once in Şirince, find a taxi or dolmuş (minibus) to take you around the village.

When to get there

The best time to visit Şirince is between the seasons of spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November). The village is located in the Aegean region of Turkey, which experiences hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Şirince is a popular tourist destination, so it is advisable to book accommodation and tickets in advance.

Wine tasting in Şirince

Şirince is known for its stunning hillside vineyards and rich history of winemaking. In fact, archaeological evidence suggests that the ancient Greeks were producing wine here as far back as the 7th century BC. It’s particularly known for its sweet wines, made from the various berries and fruits on the hillside. There are many wine shops and traditional wine houses in the village center for tastings and purchasing.