Edirne Travel Guide 2026: Everything You Need to Know
The former Ottoman capital in European Turkey, home to Sinan's masterpiece Selimiye Mosque.
Why Visit Edirne?
- Selimiye Mosque - Sinan's masterpiece
- Former Ottoman capital
- Annual oil wrestling festival
- Bridge to Europe
- Rich Balkan-Ottoman heritage
Top Attractions in Edirne
Selimiye Mosque
Mimar Sinan's greatest work - UNESCO site
Old Mosque (Eski Cami)
Early Ottoman calligraphy masterpiece
Üç Şerefeli Mosque
Four different minarets
Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Arena
World's oldest sporting event
Covered Bazaar
Ottoman marketplace
Edirne Palace Ruins
Former imperial residence
Best Time to Visit Edirne
Spring
April-May: Pleasant weather
Autumn
September-October: Comfortable
Summer
Late June - Kirkpinar wrestling festival
Winter
Cold but uncrowded
Local Tips & Advice
- Selimiye interior will take your breath away
- Try ciğer tava - famous fried liver
- Kirkpinar festival late June is incredible
- Good day trip from Istanbul
- Visit all three historic mosques
What to Eat in Edirne
- Edirne ciğeri - fried liver specialty
- Badem ezmesi - marzipan
- Balkan influences in cuisine
- Develi lokum - Turkish delight
- Mis soap - traditional souvenir
Neighborhoods to Explore
- Kaleiçi: Historic center with mosques
- Sarayiçi: Wrestling arena island
- Modern Center: Shopping and dining
Getting Around
Edirne has various transportation options to help you explore. Consider purchasing a local transit card for convenience, and don't hesitate to walk - many attractions are best discovered on foot.
Where to Stay
Edirne offers accommodation for every budget:
- Luxury: 5-star hotels with premium amenities
- Mid-range: Comfortable hotels and boutique stays
- Budget: Hostels and guesthouses for backpackers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Edirne?
The best times to visit Edirne are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller.
How many days do I need in Edirne?
We recommend 3-5 days to explore Edirne's main attractions comfortably, though you could spend longer discovering hidden gems.
Is Edirne safe for tourists?
Edirne is generally safe for tourists. As with any destination, stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
What is Edirne known for?
The former Ottoman capital in European Turkey, home to Sinan's masterpiece Selimiye Mosque.
What food should I try in Edirne?
Don't miss local specialties like Edirne ciğeri - fried liver specialty, Badem ezmesi - marzipan, Balkan influences in cuisine when visiting Edirne.
Edirne Travel Guide 2026 - Last updated: January 2026
