Things to Do in Edirne Turkey

Exploring Edirne: A City Steeped in History

Edirne, a city steeped in history and Ottoman charm, offers a fascinating blend of cultural experiences and architectural wonders for the discerning traveler. Located in northwestern Turkey, near the border with Greece and Bulgaria, it’s a city where cultures meet and history comes alive. Here are some highlights:

Historical Treasures:

  • Selimiye Mosque: This stunning mosque, built by the renowned architect Sinan, is considered one of his masterpieces and a testament to Ottoman architectural prowess. Marvel at its intricate design, soaring minarets, and impressive scale.
  • Sultan Selim Mosque (Yeni Cami): Another architectural gem by Sinan, this mosque showcases the grandeur of Ottoman mosques with its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
  • Edirne’s Historical Bridges: Explore the magnificent bridges that bridge the gap between modern Turkey and its Ottoman past. The
    • Meric Bridge (Karaağaç) - A majestic Ottoman bridge over the Tunca River, offering stunning views of the city.
    • The “Bridge of Love” in Edirne: Discover the story behind this unique bridge and its romantic legend.
  • The Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı): Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic market, experience the aroma of fresh spices, and browse through stalls selling traditional Turkish delights like colorful spices, Turkish delight candies, dried fruits and nuts.

Cultural Immersion:

  • Edirne Palace Museum: Step back in time and visit this former Ottoman palace, now a museum showcasing the opulent lifestyle of the sultans.
  • The Edirne Archaeological Museum: Explore artifacts from various eras of Edirne’s history, including
    • Roman and Byzantine relics.
    • Ottoman-era treasures.
  • The historical city center: Wander through the cobblestone streets and admire the stunning architecture of the Ottoman era, including the iconic Ulu Cami Mosque (the Selimiye Mosque).

Beyond History:

  • The vibrant streets of Edirne: Explore the city’s bustling markets and discover local artisans crafting unique souvenirs.
  • The Trajan Bridge: Visit this ancient bridge for its breathtaking beauty and historical significance, and enjoy the scenic view of the Meriç River.
  • Delicious local cuisine: Indulge in traditional Turkish dishes like
    • Edirne-style köfte (meatballs): Don’t miss out on these unique meatballs that are a staple of Edirne’s culinary scene.

Beyond the City Walls:

  • Explore the natural beauty of the Meriç River Valley, known for its fertile land and picturesque villages.
  • Visit the nearby city of Kirklareli: Known for its historical Ottoman mosques and traditional Turkish architecture.

Tips for Tourists:

  • Plan your visit: Edirne is a historic city with a lot to offer, so it’s worth planning which sites you want to see and how long you need.
  • Try the local cuisine: Edirne is famous for its delicious culinary traditions. Be sure to sample the local delicacies.
  • Learn some basic Turkish phrases:

While “Merhaba” (Hello) and “Teşekkür ederim” (Thank you) are universal, knowing a few basic phrases in Turkish will enhance your experience and make it easier to interact with locals.

  • Dress respectfully: When visiting mosques, remember to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees for women. Women may need to borrow a scarf or shawl upon entry.

  • Embrace the local culture: Respecting local customs is important in any destination, but especially so in Turkey. Take the time to observe and appreciate the rich history and traditions of the city.

Enjoy!