Once Edirne gets into your head, you start planning another getaway. We love it, we have walked it, we have eaten there and still not finished. There is much more to see, so our excuse is ready.
Why see Selimiye Mosque?
With its striking architecture, Selimiye Mosque is the masterpiece of Mimar Sinan. It stands in the centre of the city and was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2011. Its large dome and slender minarets define Edirne’s skyline.
What is Edirne famous for?
Edirne was an Ottoman capital before Istanbul, and that history shows in its mosques, bridges and markets. The Meriç and Tunca rivers give the city its character. Its food is just as famous, and tava ciğeri (fried liver) is one of the first dishes people think of.
Where to watch the sunset in Edirne
We worked hard to catch the sun. We even drove a long way towards it, then returned to Meriç Bridge and closed the day with that view. It is the second bridge after Tunca Bridge. Cars can cross it, and along its sides runs a walkway just wide enough for one person. There are cafés beside the bridge for tea and coffee, which helps because it gets much cooler after sunset.
How we spent a day
- Selimiye Mosque in the city centre
- Food stops, because Edirne’s flavours keep pulling us back
- Meriç Bridge at sunset
Edirne also invites a longer stay: the nearby Eski Cami and Üç Şerefeli Cami, the Kırkpınar oil wrestling tradition and almond paste are all part of its identity.
For city days on foot we packed Rider Healthcare socks and a Galata Healthcare body cream, and Educated Moto Riders offers trips for those who like company.
Read the full story in Turkish with photos and videos: Edirne Gezi Rehberi.