A research firm has identified Europe's most beautiful 30 villages, with Gölyazı, a village in Bursa, Turkey, making the cut. The list evaluates various criteria, including architectural beauty, natural scenery, cultural heritage, quality of life, and visitor experience. Among the 30 villages, which span from France to Norway and Italy to Portugal, only Gölyazı from Turkey managed to secure a spot.

GÖLYAZI RANKS AMONG EUROPE'S TOP 10 BEAUTIFUL VILLAGES

Gölyazı, located in the Nilüfer district of Bursa and situated along the shores of Lake Uluabat, has been placed 10th in the rankings. The village, known for its historical stone houses, narrow streets, and lake views, is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. Described by Evliya Çelebi as a "spiritual city," Gölyazı offers visitors a tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty that seems to stop time. The area is also referred to as the "Little Venice" due to the rising lake water reaching the doors of houses during rainy seasons.

A DISTINCT BEAUTY IN ALL FOUR SEASONS

Gölyazı sees a surge in visitors during spring and summer months. However, the village also offers a unique visual feast during winter with its misty lake views and historical charm. The sunsets in Gölyazı create a picture-perfect scene, making it one of Europe's most captivating destinations. The village's historic churches, centuries-old stone buildings, and fishing boats on the lake complete its unique ambiance, attracting both local and international tourists.

EUROPE'S MOST BEAUTIFUL 30 VILLAGES LIST

30. Gura Humorului / Romania
29. Kotor / Montenegro
28. Ohrid / North Macedonia
27. Monsanto / Portugal
26. Zalipie / Poland
25. Sint-Martens-Latem / Belgium
24. Riquewihr / France
23. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie / France
22. Porvoo / Finland
21. Koprivštica / Bulgaria
20. Sopron / Hungary
19. Reine / Norway
18. Bernkastel-Kues / Germany
17. Quedlinburg / Germany
16. Marianske-Lazne / Czech Republic
15. Vlkolinec / Slovakia
14. Piran / Slovenia
13. Setenil de las Bodegas / Spain
12. Visby / Sweden
11. Soglio / Switzerland
10. Gölyazı / Turkey
9. Rovinj / Croatia
8. Lefkara / Cyprus
7. Hindeloopen / Netherlands
6. Lech / Austria
5. Conwy / Wales
4. Procida / Italy
3. Civita di Bagnoregio / Italy
2. Berat / Albania
1. Kilkenny / Ireland