Sirince Village

The hidden paradise of the Aegean, a unique village experience where history meets nature

History and Cultural Heritage of Sirince

Sirince is located in the Selcuk district of Izmir and is one of the most visited villages in the Aegean. The history of the village dates back to ancient times, but the most known settlement period belongs to the 19th century when the Greek population lived there. After the 1923 population exchange, Turkish families coming from Thessaloniki and its surroundings were settled in the village, and Sirince gained its current cultural structure.

Located about 350 meters above sea level, Sirince is famous for its unique location built on mountain slopes and its well-preserved architecture. According to rumors, the old name of the village was "Cirkince" (Ugly), but considering the beauty of the village, this name was deemed inappropriate and later changed to "Sirince" (Pretty/Cute).

What makes Sirince special today are its stone streets, two-story whitewashed Greek houses, regional wine production, olive oil, natural soaps, and handmade products. The region offers a unique experience for both daily visitors and those interested in cultural tourism.

Sirince Village Historical Houses

Highlights of Sirince and Reasons to Visit

Famous Sirince Wines

Sirince is the region where Turkey's most well-known handmade fruit wines are produced. Wines made from fruits such as apple, mulberry, raspberry, peach, and strawberry are an important part of the village's economic and cultural heritage. Visitors can participate in tasting experiences at many points in the village.

Historical Greek Houses

The most striking element of the village is the two-story Greek houses with their intact architectural texture. These restored historical buildings are converted into boutique hotels, pensions, and cafes, increasing the tourism potential of the village. Most of the houses have survived from the 19th century to the present day.

Traditional Handicrafts

Sirince's bazaar is full of olive oil soaps, lace works, hand-woven textile products, natural jams, and locally produced delicacies. The local people continue to keep traditional handicrafts alive and offer authentic products to visitors.

Aegean Local Cuisine

Restaurants in Sirince offer visitors the most special tastes of Aegean cuisine. Olive oil dishes, herb pastries, pancakes (gözleme), village breads, and natural fruit desserts are among the flavors that must be tried in the region.

Visitor Information

Transportation

  • You can easily reach Selcuk from Izmir via comfortable airport transfer or chauffeured car rental with Destina Transfer.
  • From Selcuk to Sirince (8 km), you can travel with Destina Transfer's regular minibus services or our private transfer services.
  • From Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, you can reach within 1 hour via car rental or VIP transfer service with Destina Transfer.
  • If you come with a private vehicle, you can park in the parking lot at the village entrance; you can get extra comfort with Destina Transfer's chauffeured services.

Accommodation

  • There are boutique hotels in Sirince converted from historical houses.
  • Pensions in various price ranges are available within the village and its surroundings.
  • Nistos Hotel, Kirkinca Pension, and Gullu Konak are popular accommodation options.
  • It is recommended to book in advance during the high season.

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (April-May): The period when nature revives and the weather is mild.
  • Autumn (September-October): Harvest time, you can see wine making.
  • Weekdays are calmer compared to weekends.
  • It can be crowded in summer months (June-August).

Frequently Asked Questions about Sirince Village Tour

1- How do I get to Sirince Village?

Sirince is a historical village located in the Selcuk district of Izmir, nestled among the mountains. The roads can be narrow and winding. **As Destina Transfer, we pick you up from your hotel in Izmir, Kusadasi, or Selcuk and transport you comfortably and safely to this authentic village.**

2- How much time should we spend in Sirince?

On average, 2-3 hours is enough to wander the stone streets of the village, shop, and eat and drink something. **With Destina Transfer's private tours, you can enjoy the village without time restrictions and rush.**

3- Can the Sirince tour be combined with Ephesus?

Absolutely! Sirince is only 8 km from the Ancient City of Ephesus. One of our most popular programs is to visit Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary in the morning and take a break in Sirince in the afternoon. **Since our tours are completely flexible, we can plan this route specifically for you.**

4- What is famous in Sirince? What should we buy?

Sirince is most famous for its fruit wines. You can find wines in many different flavors such as mulberry, blackberry, and strawberry. Also, handmade soaps, olive oil products, and local handicrafts are popular.

5- What can we eat and drink in the village?

Sirince is known for local drinks like Turkish coffee on sand and elderberry syrup, and delicacies like pancakes (gözleme) and herb pastries. You can take a pleasant break in many boutique restaurants and cafes.

6- Are the roads to Sirince difficult? Is there a parking problem?

Yes, the roads leading to the village are narrow and winding. Especially on weekends and holiday periods, it is quite difficult to find parking space inside the village. **With Destina Transfer, you can avoid this stress; our experienced driver drops you off at the village center and picks you up again at the agreed time.**

7- Is it a suitable place for families with children?

Yes, the fairytale atmosphere of Sirince is interesting for children. However, walking with a stroller can be a bit challenging due to the cobbled and steep streets.

8- Is a Sirince tour possible for cruise passengers?

Definitely. It is one of our most popular tours for guests arriving from Kusadasi port. We pick you up from the port, use your limited time most efficiently to visit Ephesus and Sirince, and drop you back to your ship right on time.

9- What is included in the tour price?

**Destina Transfer** tour price includes; a VIP vehicle allocated specially for you, professional driver, fuel, and highway tolls. Your personal expenses and optional guide service are not included in the price.

10- When is the best time to visit?

Sirince is beautiful in every season. However, the most enjoyable times are the spring months when the weather is mild and nature revives, and the autumn months which are harvest time.

Customer Reviews

"Fantastic service. The driver was very helpful and the vehicle was spotless. Highly recommended for airport pickups and private trips around Ephesus."

J
Julia S.

"The driver was very kind, helped with luggage and kept us company. Even in heavy rain, he drove very carefully. Great service!"

A
Anna B.

"A very respectful and comfortable journey. The driver informed me about the arrival time beforehand, which made the trip stress-free. Thank you Destina!"

M
Merve K.