Safranbolu is a historical and touristic district of Karabuk province. Its location is 231 km north of Ankara and 90 km south of the Black Sea. It is located 8 km north of the town center of Karabuk. Safranbolu city center and Karabuk city center are adjacent to each other.
Famous for its historical Safranbolu houses, which reflect the Classical Ottoman urban architecture, examples of which can be found in many parts of Turkey such as Beypazarı, Göynük, Taraklı, Odunpazarı and Osmaneli, the city has been on the World Heritage List in Turkey since 17 December 1994. It is one of 9 cultural assets and attracts touristic interest. Safranbolu takes its name from saffron, a rare plant that grows in the region.