Looking for an inexpensive, easily accessible, and architecture-filled weekend getaway from Istanbul? Edirne is perfect! While not as glamorous as other weekend getaways to the south, the city is still a delight to visit any time of year.
Although the area is known for the Selimiye Mosque, butter, and natural fruit-shaped soaps, Edirne makes a wonderful getaway for those interested in architecture, Ottoman history, or simply wanting to escape the crowds and city heat. Edirne was once called Der-i Saadet, or "the gate of happiness," by the Ottoman sultans, and after a few hours of wandering around the city, you'll likely understand why.
Getting there
Frequent and affordable buses depart from Istanbul, operated by various bus companies. Trips last approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the chosen route from Istanbul. The city is small and easily accessible on foot, but if you prefer, you can rent a bike or explore the trails and stone bridges along the river on foot.
Where to stay
While you can simply spend the day in Edirne and return to Istanbul in the evening, staying overnight will allow you to explore the city better. Accommodations are numerous, from inexpensive and simple hotels to Ottoman-style suites. Wherever you stay, be sure to stop by the Selimiye Mosque to see its beautiful illumination at night.
When to go
Edirne is a great short trip any time of year. In spring, the surrounding countryside bursts with greenery and fresh leaves, and roadside farms are overflowing with juicy strawberries. In summer, the nearby sunflowers are in full bloom, perfect for Instagram posts, and June marks the start of the famous oil harvest. Autumn brings changing foliage, and winter's snow creates the perfect romantic backdrop for chilly walks and cozy architectural tours.
Sightseeings
Selimiye Mosque
This religious landmark was commissioned by Sultan Selim and built by the architect Mimar Sinan between 1569 and 1575. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the 1500s, it was said in Europe that Muslims could not build a dome the size of the Byzantine Hagia Sophia. Sinan proved the Islamophobes wrong and built an even larger dome, later inspiring other mosques, such as the Sultanahmet.
The Selimiye Mosque is surrounded by a beautiful neighborhood and has a perfect courtyard for relaxation. At the center of the structure is a fountain in the shape of an inverted tulip, a landmark in its own right. The mosque was reportedly built on a farmer's tulip field. Outside the mosque, there is a small indoor market selling many of the goods that make Edirne famous.
old mosque
Next on the list is the Old Mosque, built between 1403 and 1414 and, as its name suggests, the oldest imperial mosque in Edirne. Many of Edirne's buildings surpass those in Istanbul in their uniqueness, as the interior walls are often covered with giant calligraphic scripts of the names of Allah, Muhammad, and other prophets. Again, outside the mosque, which used to be Edirne's main commercial center, there is a covered bazaar. Here you can buy souvenirs.
Bridges of Edirne
A series of Ottoman-era bridges in Edirne, Turkey, is located approximately 240 km west of Istanbul. The Meriç, Arda, and Tunca rivers emerge from the high mountains of the Balkans, meet in Edirne, and take the Ergene River south to join the Aegean Sea. Bridges span these rivers, playing an important role in the city's history, economy, and culture. All the bridge structures in the city are artifacts that define the Ottoman capital several centuries ago.
