Travelling is a perfect way to unwind and recharge your batteries. In contrast to the hectic atmosphere in the big cities, some magical small towns allow you to do that and celebrate the simple things in life.

In fact, that’s exactly why the Cittaslow movement began in 1999, offering a more human-centric and laid-back lifestyle. Cittaslow philosophy aims to improve life quality and take responsibility towards the natural world. 

And the good news is that Türkiye is filled with these special towns. Away from crowds, Turkish members of the Cittaslow network care for nature, protect cultural heritage, minimise traffic, and support local products.

Here are 7 autumn getaway destinations where you can embrace a slower way of life.

İznik, inscribed as a Cittaslow town in 2021, is located in Bursa, the Marmara region. The town is primarily famous for its handmade pottery and tiles, and it is a prominent stop on the European Route of Ceramics. 

Breathtaking nature, well-preserved historic and cultural heritage assets, and a slow lifestyle there will make your autumn vacation easygoing and joyful. You can visit the Blue Flag beach of Lake İznik to enjoy a full day by the water, taste fresh local fish, and catch spectacular sunsets.

In addition, İznik is one of the 8 pilgrimage centres in Türkiye and is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.

If you want to spend quality time in nature and enjoy autumn tranquillity, İznik is your destination.

Seferihisar, the first town in Türkiye to receive the ‘Cittaslow’ title, is located in southern İzmir. This serene town maintains the Cittaslow philosophy and offers visitors amazing experiences. 

For example, Seferihisar streetlights run on solar energy. Also, you can easily find homemade, fresh, and natural products in the markets. The town’s restaurants proudly serve local delicacies unique to the district. 

Moreover, Seferihisar’s 49-kilometre-long coastline with many beaches and bays offers a breathtaking natural escape.

Plus, the town draws visitors as the tangerine capital of Türkiye. Each year in November, you can attend the Tangerine Festival, celebrate tangerine season, and enjoy some mouthwatering treats. 

Seferihisar is also famous for its winegrowing. You can wander through vineyards, attend wine-tasting events, and meet passionate winemakers who keep the heritage alive. For a cultural break, visit the Teos Archaeological Site. As one of the 12 Ionian cities of the Ionian League and an important port in Antiquity, the site was a renowned hub for artists and the wine trade.

Köyceğiz, which joined the Cittaslow movement in 2019, is situated east of Marmaris. Lake Köyceğiz has a great influence on this authentic town.

Away from the harm of a fast-paced world, you can glide along Lake Köyceğiz on a boat, with the scents of orange blossoms and sweetgum trees in the air. 

Plus, you might even spot loggerhead sea turtles or caretta carettas that find refuge in the Köyceğiz-Dalyan Special Environmental Protection Area. And as you head toward Dalyan, make sure not to miss the magnificent rock-carved tombs of Kaunos Archaeological Site.

The easygoing and responsible lifestyle is ubiquitous in Köyceğiz. Local people carefully protect nature and maintain their traditions. For example, there are no traffic lights in the town centre and no coal is allowed in winter to prevent air pollution.

Simply put, if you are looking for a less hectic autumn destination, Köyceğiz is your perfect slow-living escape.

As you step into Safranbolu, you’ll see why it is irresistibly attractive to travellers who embrace the Cittaslow philosophy. 

The town is located in Karabük, part of the Western Black Sea region, and joined the Cittaslow network in 2024. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands out with a rich Ottoman heritage. 

In the town, you can see amazing examples of Ottoman architecture, including ancient castles, hamams, bazaars, and stately government houses. 

It gets better: This Cittaslow member’s cobblestone streets, vibrant marketplaces with handcrafted goods, traditional craftsmanship, and architectural splendour make the whole experience really worth travelling for.

Last but by no means least, try saffron during your visit. This special spice stands out with its vibrant colour and flavour; also, the town derives its name from the plant.

If it's the peace of nature you're after, Perşembe can be your sanctuary for a beautiful, tranquil living.

This small town, located in Ordu on the coast of the Black Sea, was inscribed as a Cittaslow town in 2012. In Perşembe, you’ll witness every imaginable shade of green. Hike through colourful forests and enjoy incredible sights where every corner looks like a postcard.

As a member of the Cittaslow network, the town maintains a slow way of life, allowing you to soak in natural beauty, silence, and historical heritage.

Arapgir, located in Malatya, joined the Cittaslow movement in 2021. The town was home to various civilisations throughout its history and served as a significant stop on the Historical Silk Road.

You can see magnificent buildings with traditional mansion architecture, and snap stunning photos among structures that reflect the region’s social history and architectural identity.

As always, an immaculate Cittaslow vacation goes hand in hand with delicious local food. You can try tandır (tandoori) kebap, a dish cooked slowly in special oak wood tandoors. Another distinguishing feature of the town is the 'Köhnü' grape for table and wine. This type of grape is indigenous and does not grow anywhere else in the world.

For hiking and camping, you can head over to Arapgir Kozluk Stream Canyon.

Halfeti is a pure magical Cittaslow destination where time stands still, allowing you to easily disconnect from the hectic pace of modern life.

The town, which joined the Cittaslow network in 2013, is located in Şanlıurfa, on the east bank of the Euphrates River.  

Halfeti is divided into two parts: the old town and the new town. Old Halfeti was half-submerged in 2001 due to the overflow of the Birecik Dam. However, stone houses, trees, minarets, and historical monuments still proudly rise and create a timeless atmosphere beyond comprehension.

You can reach the old town via small boats along the shore. While you witness the iconic aura of the district, don’t miss tasting local delicacies such as Halfeti kebab with eggplants or the local Şabut grilled fish.  

In addition, black roses are an iconic symbol of this Cittaslow member. They only grow in Halfeti, thanks to the area's unique microclimate. Feast your eyes on these gorgeous flowers, offering a distinctive fragrance, dark, deep crimson colour, and longevity when cared for properly.

To wrap things up, Türkiye is filled with slow cities and towns perfect for having a relaxing vacation in autumn. In these towns, you’ll have a chance to meander through charming streets, stay longer at the table, and share deeper stories with local folks. Pack your luggage today and embark on a rejuvenating journey.