Tourexpi
From
Cittaslow towns to traditional cuisines, sustainable accommodations, and
eco-friendly transportation, every aspect invites travelers to embrace the
country's unique rhythms. Here's what awaits on a slow Türkiye holiday.
Türkiye,
a crossroads of civilizations, is home to many slow-travel destinations perfect
for escaping the crowds and finding serenity. Leading these are the Cittaslow cities,
where life moves leisurely, and local culture, traditions, and history are
well-preserved. Türkiye boasts 25 Cittaslow towns across 21 provinces, each
offering a unique experience. Whether it's Seferihisar, Foça, or Gökçeada,
these destinations, with their historical charm and natural beauty, offer a
tranquil escape.
Slow
Food Experiences
Slow
travel in Türkiye is closely linked with the Slow Food movement, which
celebrates natural ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and long meals
enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Turkish culinary heritage naturally embraces this
philosophy, offering immersive gastronomic experiences. From the Aegean's fresh seafood
and olive oil dishes to Southeastern Anatolia's rich kebabs and iconic desserts
like baklava, each region presents a culinary journey. Additionally,
"esnaf lokantası" provides the comfort of homemade meals, while
MICHELIN Green Star restaurants in Istanbul and Izmir highlight sustainable
practices in Turkish cuisine.
Sustainability
Initiatives
Türkiye was the
first country to partner with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)
at the governmental level in 2022. Since then, nearly 18,000 accommodations
have been certified as sustainable. Visitors can stay in these certified hotels
and enjoy eco-friendly activities, from outdoor adventures to exploring
cultural heritage. With 567 Blue Flag beaches, Türkiye ranks third globally,
and Antalya holds the record for the most Blue Flag beaches in a single city.
Türkiye is also among the top countries with UNESCO Intangible Cultural
Heritage listings, with 30 items recognized.
Eco-Friendly
Transportation
Türkiye,
centrally located at global crossroads, offers numerous eco-friendly
transportation options. Rail travel, with recent investments in high-speed and
traditional routes, is a top choice. Iconic journeys like the Eastern Express
and Diyarbakır Express offer breathtaking views and access to hidden gems.
Cycling routes across the country provide another green option to explore
Türkiye's diverse landscapes. Sailing along the turquoise coastlines reveals
stunning coves, world-class marinas, and charming coastal towns.
Embrace
slow travel in Türkiye to discover a rich blend of culture, cuisine, and
natural beauty, all while treading lightly on the earth.
Image
Credit: © TGA
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