Göynük is hosting an annual festival to commemorate Muslim scholar Akşemseddin, Sultan Mehmed the Conquere's mentor, in the third week of May. During the festival, several symposiums on Sufism, rivaling Islamic sects, Turkish political history and medicine will be organized with the participation of academics and experts. Don't forget to pay your respects to Akshamsaddin whose last resting place was built by Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror in Göynük.
Göynük is a town that preserves its ancient traditions. One of the best places for you to experience its centuries-old traditions is the marketplace. The marketplace is located in the heart of the town. Women in traditional garb open stalls all over the public square, selling local herbs, plants, vegetables and fruits that they grow on their farms and in their gardens. This market is your biggest chance to get the freshest harvest.
Gazi Süleyman Pasha Mosque, which was built in the first half of the 14th century by the son of Sultan Orhan Gazi, also features a hamam that is still operating. If you want to relax with hot steam and a good bubble bath in a historical building, head to the Gazi Süleyman Pasha Hamam while you are in Göynük.
The Victory Tower is not open to visitors, however, a short hike to the top of the hill where the tower is erected will give you a bird's-eye view of Göynük and its serene scenery. Looking down at the town from the top of the hill will make you realize that the houses scattered all over the foothills are tangled but graciously erected in harmony.
It is possible to get your hands on to the traditional clothes of the region if you pay a visit to the market place or the shops in the town center. These clothes are not so different from those worn in central Anatolia and the Black Sea region. They stand out with their colorful motifs of flowers and high-quality fabric.
Göynük is famous for its historical houses which mirror the 19th and 20th century Ottoman architecture. The locals of the town are quite determined to preserve the architectural texture of Göynük and continue to copy this tradition in the construction of the new houses in the town. There are approximately a hundred historical houses that have been restored and opened to public visit. Hence, don't forget to spare some time to explore the Ottoman houses of Göynük.
Bolu is famous for its mountain range, covered in green in spring and blanketed by snow during winter. Located between these mountains, Göynük has its fair share of green scenery with fertile highlands. Animal breeders in the region usually make use of these lands; however, since Göynük has become a tourist attraction, these highlands are frequently visited by nature lovers who join hiking and trekking groups.
