Perched in the hills 9 km east of Selçuk, amid sprawling grapevines, peach orchards, and apple trees, Şirince is one of Turkiye’s most enchanting villages. With its red-tiled, stone-and-stucco houses nestled along narrow, cobbled streets, Şirince transports visitors back in time.

Although legend says Şirince was first settled after the abandonment of Ephesus, the picturesque village we see today mostly dates from the 19th century. In the 15th century, freed Greek slaves are believed to have founded the village, naming it Çirkince (“Ugliness”) to keep others away. In 1926, the governor of İzmir officially renamed it Şirince (“Pleasantness”) — a name truly fitting its charm.

In the early 20th century, Şirince thrived as a prosperous Ottoman Greek village, acting as the economic hub for seven surrounding monasteries. After the 1924 population exchange, Turkish families from Salonica settled here, continuing the village’s agricultural traditions, especially fruit farming and wine production.

Today, Şirince is renowned for its delicious fruit wines, ranging from melon to black mulberry. These wines, typically priced between €3.90 and €5.55, are perfect served cold as an aperitif.

Although popular tourism has somewhat commercialized the main street with souvenir shops and high prices, the real magic of Şirince reveals itself in the quiet backstreets after the tour buses depart — especially if you stay overnight at one of its boutique hotels.

How to Get There

• By Car: 15 minutes from Selçuk center.

• By Minibus (Dolmuş): Regular services operate from Selçuk Otogar directly to Şirince center.

• By Guided Tour: Included in many Ephesus day-trip packages.

Tip: To experience the authentic village vibe, plan to visit early morning or stay overnight.

Visiting Hours

• Open 24/7
  Shops, cafes, and wine houses generally open from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Entrance Fee

• Village entry is free.

• Entrance to some private museums or the Church of St. John the Baptist may cost around 20–30 TL.

Sights & Activities

• Stroll Through the Village: Get lost among beautiful Ottoman-era houses and quiet alleys.

• Visit the Ruined Church of St. John the Baptist: Discover its fast-fading frescoes and historic walls.

• Taste Local Fruit Wines: Try varieties like blackberry, melon, pomegranate, and peach.

• Shop for Lace and Textiles: Local women often invite visitors to their ‘antique houses’ to display handmade lace.

• Capture Breathtaking Views: Enjoy a Turkish coffee while overlooking the lush valley below.

Accommodation Tip

If you can, stay overnight! Boutique hotels hidden in the hills offer an authentic Şirince experience once the day-trippers leave.