Edirne Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the northwest corner of Turkey, Edirne is a city steeped in history and culture. Once the capital of the Ottoman Empire before Constantinople, Edirne is a testament to the grandeur of past civilizations and a treasure trove for those seeking to delve into the rich tapestry of Turkish heritage.
The city's most iconic landmark is the Selimiye Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture designed by the legendary architect Mimar Sinan. With its soaring minarets and grand dome, the mosque dominates the skyline and is a UNESCO World Heritage site that draws visitors from around the world. Its intricate calligraphy and stunning tile work are a testament to the artistic achievements of the Ottoman era.
Edirne is also home to the historic Old Mosque (Eski Camii) and the Three Sultans Mosque (Üç Şerefeli Camii), each with their own unique architectural styles and historical significance. These religious structures are not only places of worship but also serve as a reflection of the city's multicultural past.
The city's cultural significance extends beyond its mosques. The annual Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, is held in Edirne. This centuries-old event is the world’s oldest continuously held sporting competition, attracting wrestlers and spectators from across Turkey and neighboring countries.
For those interested in military history, the Edirne Fortress, a Byzantine construction later expanded by the Ottomans, offers a glimpse into the strategic importance of the city throughout the centuries. The complex includes the Balkan War Museum, which provides an insightful look into the conflicts that have shaped the region.
Edirne's bazaars and shopping districts, such as the historic Ali Paşa Bazaar, are vibrant centers of activity where visitors can find a wide array of traditional Turkish goods, from handwoven textiles to regional delicacies like the famous Edirne fried liver (ciğer tava).
Culinary enthusiasts will revel in Edirne's offerings, which include a variety of Balkan influences. Local dishes are rich and flavorful, featuring fresh ingredients from the surrounding Thracian plains. The city is also known for its artisanal cheeses and sweets, such as the almond-based dessert, badem ezmesi.
Region: Edirne
Edirne Attractions - What to See and Explore
Edirne offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Selimiye Mosque, Old Mosque, Edirne Palace, Üç Şerefeli Mosque. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Edirne – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Edirne, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Kırklareli Museum (Kirklareli), Uzunköprü Bridge (Uzunköprü), Aziz Ioannis Church (Uzunköprü).
Best Time To Visit Edirne
Learn when is the best time to travel to Edirne weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Sarma
Sarma is a dish of vine, cabbage, monk's rhubarb or chard leaves rolled around a filling usually based on a combination of grains, like bulgur or rice, and minced meat.
Dish
Börek
Börek is a family of baked filled pastries made of a thin flaky dough such as phyllo or yufka, of Ottoman origin, and also found in the cuisines of the Balkans, the South Caucasus, the...
Cacık
Tzatziki, cacık or tarator is a dip, soup, or sauce found in the cuisines of Southeast Europe and the Middle East. It is made of salted strained yogurt or diluted yogurt mixed with...
Dish
Meze
Meze or mezze is a selection of small dishes served as appetizers in parts of the Middle East, the Balkans, Greece, and North Africa.
Type of dish
Tava
A tava, tawa, tapa, saj, or saj tava is a flat or concave disc-shaped frying pan or griddle, usually made of cast iron, aluminum, or carbon steel. It may be enameled or given a non-stick...
Region: Edirne