Just a short-day trip away from İstanbul to the west of Türkiye, close to the borders of Greece and Bulgaria; Edirne can be both a city break from İstanbul and a trip in and of itself. It's a fascinating city and well worth the time to explore!
As a gate of Anatolia to the Balkans and Europe, Edirne has a rich variety of historical and cultural attractions.
Edirne was one of the important centres of tile and ceramic art during the Ottoman period. The tiles of important buildings in Edirne are products of the city's artistic tradition.
What makes Edirne cuisine so unique and special is its rich history kneaded with different cultures as well as its geographical location. Edirne, once the capital of the Ottoman Empire, was also the centre of a rich food culture.
Saros Gulf, with its clean sea extending from the Gelibolu Peninsula to Enez, wide and sandy beaches and cool water is one of the ideal places for holiday and also a natural protected area.
Edirne has retained many of its colourful traditions and customs. Every summer the Kırkpınar oil wrestling contests are held at an emerald green meadow in Sarayiçi.
Edirne is a city that attracts visitors with its historical and cultural assets, hosting many important works of the Ottoman period, especially Selimiye Mosque, the masterpiece of Mimar Sinan.
Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex: Constructed by the architect Mimar Sinan between 1569 and 1575, the Selimiye Mosque and its complex are inscribed on the Unesco World Heritage List in 2011.
In Edirne, you have to start your first day by exploring the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in the region.
