Visiting Edirne all you need to know
Top things to do, How to get around, travel tips advice and more
Edirne, located in the northwest of Turkey, is a city steeped in history and culture. With its Ottoman architecture, impressive mosques and stunning natural landscapes, it is a destination that should not be missed.
The history of Edirne can be traced back to the Roman Empire, when it was known as Adrianople. The city later became an important center for the Byzantine Empire, and in the 14th century, it was conquered by the Ottoman Empire and became the capital of the Ottoman Empire for nearly a century. This rich history can be seen in the many monuments and historical sites throughout the city, including the Selimiye Mosque, which is considered to be one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in the world.
The climate in Edirne is Mediterranean, with warm summers and mild winters. The best times to visit are from May to September, when the weather is the warmest and there is an abundance of outdoor activities and events to enjoy. The city is also known for its annual Edirne Oil Wrestling Festival, which takes place in June and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
One of the main tourist attractions in Edirne is the Selimiye Mosque, which was designed by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan and is considered to be one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in the world. The mosque is also home to the tomb of Selim II, the Ottoman Sultan who oversaw its construction. Another must-see attraction is the Old Bridge, which is an important historical site and offers beautiful views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Edirne is also surrounded by natural beauty, with the Tunca River flowing through the city and the nearby Meriç River Delta offering a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking and hiking. Nearby, there are also several historical sites and monuments, including the Beyazid II Complex, which was built in the 15th century and is now a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.
The city is also known for its delicious food and drink, and there are many excellent restaurants and bars to choose from. Some of the top restaurants include the historic Selimiye Restaurant, which serves traditional Turkish cuisine, and the contemporary Divan Restaurant, which offers a fusion of Mediterranean and Turkish flavors. For a more casual dining experience, visitors can try one of the many street vendors or local markets. For nightlife, the city has a wide variety of bars, nightclubs and entertainment venues to choose from.
Getting around Edirne is relatively easy, as the city is well-connected by bus and train. There are also several taxi companies and car rental services available, making it easy to explore the city and surrounding area. Visitors can also take advantage of the city's bike-sharing program, which allows them to rent a bike for a small fee and explore the city at their own pace.
Overall, Edirne is a city that offers something for everyone. With its rich history, beautiful natural landscapes and delicious food and drink, it is a destination that should not be missed. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or just want to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean climate, Edirne is the perfect place to visit.