Edirne Hotels

Edirne, which served as the capital of the Ottoman Empire for many years, is a city filled with historical and touristic elements that today form the border between Turkey, Bulgaria, and Greece. The city is home to numerous mosques, historical monuments, and bridges that have stood the test of time. One of the most famous landmarks is the Selimiye Mosque, described as the “masterpiece” of the renowned architect Mimar Sinan. Other must-see attractions include the Meriç River and the ancient city of Ainos.Edirne welcomes visitors year-round for various purposes, including tourism, culture, history, and business. There are numerous hotels located both in the city center and the surrounding areas, offering quality service and the opportunity to taste the unique flavors of Edirne’s cuisine. You can visit Edirne at any time of the year while enjoying affordable accommodation options.

Best Time to Visit Edirne

The best times to visit Edirne are usually during the spring and autumn months. However, depending on your preferences and planned activities, you can have an enjoyable trip during different seasons as well.

How to Get to Edirne?

Edirne is easily accessible from almost every city, especially from within the Marmara Region. There are daily bus services from major cities to Edirne for those who prefer traveling by bus.

For those traveling by car, here are some route details:

Tekirdağ – Edirne: Approximately 142 km (1 hour 45 minutes)
Istanbul – Edirne: Approximately 240 km (2.5 hours)
Ankara – Edirne: Approximately 690 km (6 hours 40 minutes)
Bursa – Edirne: Approximately 470 km (5 hours)
Izmir – Edirne: Approximately 800 km (8 hours 50 minutes)

Must-Visit Places in Edirne

As the former capital of the Ottoman Empire and once one of Europe's largest cities, Edirne offers numerous historical and cultural sites.

Strolling through the historic streets and bazaars: The city's mystical atmosphere will captivate you.

Selimiye Mosque: Built by Mimar Sinan and considered his greatest work, this mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. The single-dome structure represents the unity of God, while the five-tiered windows symbolize the Five Pillars of Islam.

Other historical mosques: Üç Şerefeli Mosque, Muradiye Mosque, Eski (Old) Mosque, Bayezid II Mosque and Complex, Sokullu Mosque, and Fatih Mosque.

Churches and synagogues: Sweti George Church and the Jewish Synagogue.

Caravanserais, bridges, and marketplaces: Various Ottoman-era structures throughout the city.

Natural sites: Gala Lake Nature Park and the beaches along the Aegean Sea.

Historical landmarks: The Edirne Palace, Enez (Ainos) Ancient City, Dolmens in Lalapaşa, and various museums, including the Edirne Museum, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art, and the Archaeology and Ethnography Museum.
Traditional Edirne Houses: Wooden, historical houses that can be seen throughout the city center.

Meriç River: One of the largest rivers in the Balkans.

Shopping in Edirne

Spices: Edirne is known for its wide variety of spices, available at local markets, especially along the Meriç River.

Handicrafts: Handmade ceramics, woven textiles, copperware, and wooden carvings make for great souvenirs.

Local Delicacies: Edirne cheese, meatballs, fried liver, and other traditional flavors can be bought to take home.

Entertainment in Edirne

Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival: One of Edirne's most famous events, held every July. It is one of the oldest oil wrestling competitions in the world.

History of Edirne

Edirne was originally known as "Orestias" or "Orestiada" and was once under the control of the Thracian Odrysians. The city played a crucial role during the ancient Greek and Macedonian periods. In 46 AD, it came under Roman rule and became a major trade center.

After the division of the Roman Empire in 395 AD, Edirne became a key city in the Byzantine Empire’s Thrace region. The city was conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1361 and served as the empire’s capital from 1365 to 1453.

During the early 20th century, Edirne played an important role in wars between Bulgaria and Greece. Today, it is a modern Turkish city that remains an important cultural and touristic center.

What is Edirne Famous For?

Former Capital of the Ottoman Empire: From 1365 to 1453, it served as the capital and houses numerous Ottoman-era architectural masterpieces.
Selimiye Mosque: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this mosque is one of the greatest examples of Ottoman architecture.
Historical and Cultural Heritage: Edirne is home to numerous mosques, bridges, palaces, and historical bazaars.
Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival: One of the world’s oldest and most prestigious wrestling events.
Edirne Cuisine: Famous for dishes like fried liver, meatballs, and local cheeses.
Cultural and Art Festivals: Edirne hosts events such as the Kakava Festival, the International Balkan Music Festival, and other cultural celebrations.

Where to Swim in Edirne?

Edirne is an inland city and does not have a coastline. However, the nearby Aegean coast offers beach options for visitors willing to travel a short distance.

Best Things to Do in Edirne

Walk through the historical streets and bazaars.
Visit the historic bridges, fountains, and shopping districts.
Photograph the city’s unique architecture and landmarks.
Explore the traditional wooden Edirne Houses.
Shop at the famous Ali Pasha Covered Bazaar.
Visit Selimiye Mosque and other Ottoman-era mosques.
See churches, synagogues, and various museums.
Discover the Enez Ancient City and Dolmens.
Explore the Gala Lake Nature Park.
Take a walk or bike ride along the Meriç River.
Attend the Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival in June.
Celebrate Hıdırellez at the Kakava Festival in May.
Enjoy birdwatching at the Meriç Delta.
Camp in Edirne’s forests.

Food & Drink Recommendations in Edirne

Edirne’s cuisine is influenced by its Ottoman heritage as well as neighboring Greek and Bulgarian cultures. The city offers a variety of delicious dishes, including:

Fried liver (Ciğer Tava): The most famous dish in Edirne, known for its unique preparation style.
Elbasan Tava: A delicious meat and yogurt-based dish.
Other local specialties: Tarhana soup, almond paste, liver sarma, hardaliye (a traditional grape juice), satır kebab, stuffed lettuce rolls, and various pastries.
In addition to traditional dishes, Edirne offers a variety of seafood options, as well as fast-food restaurants, cafes, and places serving grilled meats, pide, kebabs, and lahmacun.