Edirne - Discovering Turkey

Travelling to Edirne

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Edirne, a pretty good destination in Turkey (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Edirne and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Edirne, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Turkey, here's everything to know about Edirne for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Edirne

Edirne is a city located in the northwest of Turkey, near the borders with Greece and Bulgaria. It was the former capital of the Ottoman Empire before Istanbul. Edirne is known for its historical and cultural attractions, including the Selimiye Mosque, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Beyazid II Kulliye Complex, and the Old Mosque. Edirne is also famous for its traditional cuisine and culinary customs, including the annual Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival, which is a popular cultural event held in the city. The city can be easily reached by car, bus, or train from Istanbul and other major cities in Turkey, making it a popular tourist destination.

What to visit in Edirne

Edirne, located in the northwestern part of Turkey, offers a variety of tourist attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Edirne: 1. Selimiye Mosque: This is Edirne's most famous landmark, and one of the most impressive examples of Ottoman architecture. Built by the famous architect Sinan in the 16th century, the mosque is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
2. Edirne Palace: Also known as the Saray-i Cedid, this palace was built in the 15th century by Sultan Murad II. It served as the main residence of the sultan and his family until the late 16th century.
3. Eski Mosque: Also known as the Old Mosque, this was the first mosque built in Edirne. Its construction began in the early 14th century, and it is considered to be a fine example of early Ottoman architecture.
4. Beyazid II Kulliyesi Health Museum: This museum is located in the complex of buildings built by Beyazid II in the late 15th century. The museum houses a collection of medical instruments and documents from Ottoman times.
5. Uc Serefeli Mosque: Built in the 15th century, this mosque is named for its three minarets. It is considered to be one of the most important examples of Ottoman architecture in Edirne.
6. Edirne Bazaar: This bazaar dates back to the 15th century, and is a great place to buy souvenirs and handicrafts. It is also famous for its traditional Turkish sweets and pastries.
7. Meric River: Running through the city, the Meric River offers many opportunities for relaxing walks along its banks. The river is also a popular spot for fishing and boating.
8. Adalet Kasri: This is a small pavilion built by Sultan Selim III in the early 19th century. It is located on a hill overlooking the city, and offers a great panoramic view of Edirne.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Turkey, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Edirne.

When to go on holiday to Edirne

The best time to visit Edirne would be during the late spring or early autumn months when the weather is warm and comfortable. This would be from April to June and from September to November. The temperature during these months is around 20-25°C and there is very little rainfall. However, if you prefer warmer weather, July and August would be the best months for you as the temperatures can reach up to 35°C. Keep in mind that the summer months can be quite hot and humid, and there may be occasional thunderstorms. If you are looking for winter activities, you might want to visit Edirne between December and February, when it is colder and there is a chance of snowfall.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Edirne

There are several ways to get to Edirne, Turkey: 1. By plane: The closest airport to Edirne is located in Istanbul, which is about 240 km from Edirne. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Edirne.
2. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate daily buses to Edirne from major cities in Turkey, including Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. The journey time is usually around 3-4 hours.
3. By car: If you prefer to drive, Edirne is located just off the E80 motorway that runs between Istanbul and Greece. The journey time from Istanbul is around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
4. By train: There are also train services that operate to Edirne from Istanbul and other cities in Turkey. However, train travel in Turkey can be slow, and the journey time from Istanbul to Edirne is around 4-5 hours.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Edirne, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Edirne

Sure, here are some typical foods of Edirne in Turkey: 1. Thracian Pita (Trakya Pidesi) - A large, thin, and crispy Turkish-style pizza that is typically topped with minced meat, onions, peppers, and cheese.
2. Liver Rolls (Ciğer Sarma) - Fried lamb liver wrapped in caul fat, seasoned with spices and served with onions and tomatoes.
3. Meatballs (Köfte) - Traditional Turkish meatballs made from ground beef or lamb mixed with bulgur, onions, and spices, grilled and served with a side of pilaf.
4. Sweet Rose (Güllaç) - A traditional Turkish dessert made from layers of thin, starchy sheets soaked in a sweetened milk syrup and sprinkled with crushed nuts.
5. Lamb Stew (Kuzu Güveç) - A slow-cooked lamb stew with potatoes, carrots, onions, and peppers in a tomato-based broth.
6. Pastrami Sandwiches (Pastırmalı Tost) - Toasted bread topped with spicy beef pastrami, cheese, and tomatoes, grilled until the cheese is melty.
7. Sweet Cheese Pastry (Beyaz Peynirli Börek) - A savory pastry filled with white cheese and parsley, baked until the outside is crispy and golden.
8. Wild Herb Salad (Kaz Dağları Salatası) - A refreshing salad made with fresh herbs like parsley, dill, mint, and green onion, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
I hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Turkey here.

Is Edirne an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other cities in Turkey, Edirne is generally considered a more affordable destination for tourists. However, the cost of a trip to Edirne can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. Accommodation and meals are relatively affordable in Edirne compared to other popular tourist destinations in Turkey. Transportation costs are also relatively low, with local buses and taxis being convenient options for getting around the city. There are also many free tourist attractions in Edirne, such as the Selimiye Mosque and the Justice Palace. Overall, while Edirne may not be as cheap as some other destinations in Turkey, it is still considered a reasonably priced place to visit by many travelers.

Where to find accomodation in Edirne

In Edirne, it is best to find accommodation either in the city center or in the vicinity of the major tourist attractions such as Selimiye Mosque. The city center offers a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and hostels to choose from, while staying closer to the tourist attractions will provide easy access to the sights and save time on transportation. Some popular areas for accommodation in Edirne are Kaleici, Sarayici, and Hafizaga.
You can check hotel prices at Edirne here:
Booking.com

Is Edirne a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Edirne is generally a safe place for tourists. The crime rate in Edirne is relatively low, and the local people are friendly and welcoming to visitors. However, as with any destination, it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions to ensure your safety. This includes being cautious in crowded areas, watching your belongings, and taking care when crossing the streets. It is also advisable to avoid any protests or demonstrations and follow the local rules and customs.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Turkey here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Edirne.

What type of travelers will enjoy Edirne the most?

Edirne, Turkey is a great destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and families who love to explore. It is also a great destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The city is steeped in Ottoman history and boasts some of the most beautiful Ottoman architecture in Turkey. Some of the top attractions in Edirne include the Selimiye Mosque, the Eski Mosque, the Edirne Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. These are all great spots to explore the city's rich history and architecture.
The city is also known for its delicious cuisine, including traditional Ottoman dishes like Edirne liver, lamb kebab, and baklava. Overall, Edirne is a great destination for couples, families, and solo travelers who love history, culture, and exploring new destinations.

How to get around Edirne

In Edirne, you can move around by using various transportation options, including buses, taxis, and walking. The city also has a well-developed public transportation network, with buses running throughout the day and evening. The buses cover most of the city's major tourist destinations and landmarks and are relatively inexpensive. You can also use taxis to get around Edirne, and they are readily available throughout the city. Walking is also a good option for exploring Edirne's historic neighborhoods and pedestrian-friendly areas.

What to see around Edirne

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Edirne: 1. Selimiye Mosque: This stunning mosque, designed by the famous architect Mimar Sinan, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see attraction in Edirne.
2. Enez: This charming town, located about 70 kilometers southwest of Edirne, is known for its picturesque old town, historic castle, and beautiful beaches.
3. Meriç River: Take a relaxing boat ride on the Meriç River, which flows through Edirne and is bordered by beautiful parks and gardens.
4. Uzunköprü: This small town, about 30 kilometers north of Edirne, is known for its historic Ottoman bridge and lovely countryside scenery.
5. Karaağaç: This neighborhood in Edirne is home to several historic Ottoman mansions, including the famous Kıyılar Mansion, which is now a museum. 6. Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Arena: This historic arena is where the annual Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival takes place every June, and is worth a visit to learn about this unique cultural tradition.
7. Keşan: This small town, about 60 kilometers southwest of Edirne, is known for its historic mosque, lively bazaar, and beautiful countryside surroundings.
8. Sazlıdere Waterfall: This natural waterfall is located about 30 kilometers southeast of Edirne, and is a popular spot for nature lovers and hikers.
I hope this helps!
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