Four Turkish Villages Recognized Among UNWTO’s ‘Best Tourism Villages 2025’

ANKARA — Four villages from Türkiye have been honored by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), earning a place on the prestigious “Best Tourism Villages 2025” list. The recognition highlights Türkiye’s progress in sustainable, community-focused rural tourism.

The awarded destinations include Akyaka in Muğla, Barbaros in İzmir, Kale Üçağız in Antalya, and Anıtlı in Mardin — representing both the western coastlines and the historical east of the country.

Now in its fifth edition, the Best Tourism Villages initiative celebrates rural areas that protect cultural heritage, support environmental sustainability, and contribute to local economic development.

Global Recognition

This year, 52 villages from 29 countries were selected out of 270 applications spanning Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. The results were announced during a ceremony in Huzhou, China.

An additional 20 villages were placed in the UNWTO Upgrade Programme, which offers guidance to help them qualify in future editions.

With the 2025 selections, the UNWTO’s international network now includes 319 rural destinations that collaborate by exchanging knowledge and best practices in responsible tourism and rural development.

Unique Strengths of Türkiye’s Winners

Akyaka (Muğla): A coastal haven famed for its eco-friendly architecture blending Ottoman and modern styles, pristine landscapes and slow-living ethos.
Barbaros (İzmir): A model of community-led tourism, known for its traditional cuisine, artisanal crafts and local festivals.
Anıtlı (Mardin): A village steeped in multi-faith history, showcasing centuries of cultural coexistence in southeastern Türkiye.
Kale Üçağız (Antalya): Built upon the ancient Lycian city of Theimussa, this peaceful seaside village attracts visitors with its archaeological ruins and Mediterranean charm.

Official Reaction

Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy hailed the recognition as proof of Türkiye’s balanced tourism vision.

“We see tourism not just as an economic sector,” he said. “It is a force that protects cultural heritage, strengthens local communities and keeps people at its core.”

Ersoy thanked all contributors, including the ministry’s EU and Foreign Relations Department, which helped prepare the applications. He reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to expanding rural tourism and preserving Anatolia’s cultural legacy.

The sixth edition of the Best Tourism Villages program will open for applications in early 2026.