The Turkish meaning of the word Şirin is sweet or charming and this is
exactly what this village is. Nestled away in the hills about 8 kilometres outside Selçuk, this local attraction is steeped in history.

Legend has it, the village was named Çirkince, which means ugly, by the locals to try and discourage visitors and others from settling in their little paradise.

Şirince, an old Greek settlement Village, consists of approximately 800 houses all in different conditions, some dilapidated, some being renovated and many on the main route through the village have already been restored.

Many of the restored properties have converted the downstairs area into shops, or wine tasting lounges. For it is here where you can sample the delights of the locally produced fruit wines. Ranging from a very sweet to dry red or white, the shop owners will allow you to taste before you buy. There are an array of flavours to try from, strawberry, apple, melon, quince, pomegranate, black mulberry, kiwi, sour cherry, raspberry, cherry and blackberry.

There are numerous market stalls run by local women selling their knit wear, embroidered linen clothing, soap, locally produced olive oil, and handbags amongst other things.

Warm hospitality greets you when you visit anyone of the restaurants dotted around the village where you will find traditional Turkish food is served.

Being so high in the mountains the village benefits stunning scenery and fresh air, so fresh you want to breath as much in as possible before you leave!

If you visit Şirince other than in the Summer months please remember due to it being so high the temperature is always a good few degrees lower than at sea level.

How to get there

By car

Head out of Kuşadası on the main Izmir road. At the first set of traffic lights after you have exited Kuşadası turn right. Turn left at the traffic lights in the centre of Selçuk. Turn right at the next set of traffic lights, go under the railway bridge and shortly after the road will bear round to the left. Follow the road to Şirince, approximately 8 kilometres. There are ample parking spaces throughout the village.

By Dolmus

Catch the dolmus from Kuşadası centrum to Selçuk. At the dolmus station in Selçuk change for one to Şirince.

By Tour

Many tour companies operate excursions up to the village on various days through the week.

By Taxi

Try negotiating a price at one of the many taxi stations located in Kuşadası