Edirne Turkey

July 19, 2024

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Edirne, Turkey

Located in the northwest of Turkey, Edirne is a charming city with a rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. This guide will take you on an unforgettable journey through the best places to visit, activities to enjoy, where to eat, stay, and other essential tips for a memorable trip to Edirne.

Places to Visit

1. Selimiye Mosque (Selimiye Camii)

Address: Mimar Sinan Caddesi, Edirne Merkez/Edirne
A masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, this mosque is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.
Marvel at its intricate stone carvings, ornate tiles, and stunning dome.

2. Edirne Palace (Edirne Sarayı)

Address: Sultan Bayezid Caddesi, Edirne Merkez/Edirne
This historic palace was once the summer residence of Ottoman sultans.
Explore its opulent chambers, gardens, and impressive architecture.

3. Üç Şerefeli Mosque (Üç Şerefeli Camii)

Address: Mimar Sinan Caddesi, Edirne Merkez/Edirne
Another iconic mosque in Edirne, known for its unique triple balconies.
Admire its beautiful minarets and ornate decorations.

4. Edirne Museum (Edirne Müzesi)

Address: Hükümet Caddesi, Edirne Merkez/Edirne
Discover the history and culture of Edirne through exhibits on archaeology, ethnography, and Ottoman artifacts.
Learn about the city’s significance as a border town and its role in Turkish independence.

5. Meriç River (Meriç Nehri)

Take a stroll along the riverbank and enjoy the scenic views.
The Meriç River forms the border between Turkey and Greece.

6. Karaağaç Railway Museum (Karaağaç Demiryolu Müzesi)

Address: Karaağaç, Edirne Merkez/Edirne
Explore historic trains and learn about the significance of railways in Turkish history.
This museum is located in a beautiful park with walking trails.

7. Sultan Bayezid II Mosque (Sultan Bayezid II Camii)

Address: Sultan Bayezid Caddesi, Edirne Merkez/Edirne
Another stunning mosque in Edirne, built during the reign of Sultan Bayezid II.
Admire its elegant architecture and beautiful courtyard.

8. Edirne Synagogue (Edirne Sinagogu)

Address: Kaleiçi, Edirne Merkez/Edirne
This historic synagogue dates back to the 15th century.
Learn about the Jewish community in Edirne and their significant contributions to the city’s culture.

9. Edirne City Walls (Edirne Şehir Surları)

Explore the ancient city walls, which date back to the Byzantine era.
Enjoy panoramic views of the city from various points along the walls.

10. Trakya University (Trakya Üniversitesi)

Address: Değirmenaltı, Edirne Merkez/Edirne
This university is known for its beautiful campus and historic buildings.
Take a stroll around the campus and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Activities

1. Take a Stroll along the Meriç River

Enjoy the scenic views and tranquil atmosphere along the riverbank.
Perfect for a relaxing afternoon or morning walk.

2. Explore the Bazaars (Çarşılar)

Visit the historic bazaars in Edirne, such as the Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) and the Bedesten Bazaar.
Discover local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Turkish delicacies.

3. Attend a Whirling Dervishes Show

Experience the mystic beauty of Sufi whirling dervishes at a traditional show.
Learn about the history and significance of this ancient ritual.

4. Take a Day Trip to the Border Town of Kapıkule

Visit the Turkish-Greek border crossing and enjoy the scenic views.
Explore the historic fortifications and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

5. Go Hiking in the Surrounding Countryside

Discover the natural beauty of Edirne’s countryside through hiking trails.
Enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.

6. Take a Cooking Class

Learn how to prepare traditional Turkish dishes, such as kebabs and baklava.
Enjoy a fun and interactive culinary experience with local chefs.

7. Visit a Local Hamam (Turkish Bath)

Relax and rejuvenate in a traditional Turkish bathhouse.
Experience the ancient Ottoman tradition of hamams.

Where to Eat

1. Körfez Restaurant

Address: Mimar Sinan Caddesi, Edirne Merkez/Edirne
Savor traditional Turkish cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and recipes.
Enjoy stunning views of the Selimiye Mosque from their outdoor seating area.

2. Paşa Restaurant

Address: Sultan Bayezid Caddesi, Edirne Merkez/Edirne
Discover Ottoman-inspired dishes in an elegant setting.
Try their famous pastry desserts and Turkish coffee.

3. Çeşmeoğlu Kebapçı

Address: Kaleiçi, Edirne Merkez/Edirne
Enjoy delicious kebabs and other traditional Turkish meat dishes.
This local favorite has been serving Edirne’s residents for generations.

4. Pasha Café

Address: Mimar Sinan Caddesi, Edirne Merkez/Edirne
Relax in a cozy atmosphere with a cup of Turkish coffee or tea.
Try their delicious pastries and cakes, perfect for a sweet treat.

Where to Stay

1. Hotel Edirne Palace

Address: Sultan Bayezid Caddesi, Edirne Merkez/Edirne
Experience luxury and comfort in this historic hotel.
Enjoy stunning views of the city from their rooftop restaurant.

2. Rüstempaşa Kervansarayı Hotel

Address: Mimar Sinan Caddesi, Edirne Merkez/Edirne
Stay in a beautifully restored Ottoman-era building.
Relax in their peaceful courtyard and enjoy traditional Turkish hospitality.

3. Efe Hotel

Address: Kaleiçi, Edirne Merkez/Edirne
This family-run hotel offers cozy rooms and a warm atmosphere.
Enjoy a delicious breakfast on their sunny rooftop terrace.

Things to Know

1. Language

Turkish is the official language, but many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas.
Learn basic Turkish phrases, such as “merhaba” (hello) and “teşekkür” (thank you).

2. Currency

The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency.
Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand.

3. Weather

Edirne has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cold winters.
Be prepared for varying weather conditions and pack accordingly.

4. Culture

Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
Remove your shoes before entering a mosque or someone’s home.

5. Safety

Edirne is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Avoid traveling alone at night and be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas.

Transportation

1. Airport

Edirne has a small airport (EDO) with limited international connections.
Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) is the nearest major international airport, about 230 km from Edirne.

2. Bus

Frequent bus services connect Edirne to other Turkish cities, including Istanbul and Ankara.
Local buses and dolmuşes (minivans) operate within the city.

3. Taxi

Taxis are widely available, but agree on a fare before departing.
Many taxi drivers speak some English, but it’s still a good idea to learn basic Turkish phrases.

4. Walking and Cycling

Edirne is a walkable city, and many attractions are within walking distance.
Consider renting a bike to explore the surrounding countryside or enjoy a leisurely ride along the Meriç River.

Tips

1. Haggle at Bazaars

Expect to haggle when shopping at bazaars, as it’s part of the local culture.
Be respectful and polite when negotiating prices.

2. Try Local Delicacies

Edirne is famous for its local delicacies, such as kebabs, baklava, and Turkish delight.
Be adventurous and try new flavors and dishes.

3. Respect Local Customs

Remove your shoes before entering a mosque or someone’s home.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or attending cultural events.

4. Learn Some Turkish Phrases

Learn basic Turkish phrases to show respect for the local culture.
It will also help you navigate the city and interact with locals more easily.

5. Stay Hydrated

Edirne can be hot during the summer months, so stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Avoid traveling during the hottest part of the day (usually between 11 am and 3 pm).

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore the charming city of Edirne, Turkey. Enjoy your travels!