Edirne, Turkey-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Edirne

Morning

  • Arrive at Edirne Selçuk Airport (ERI)
  • Take a taxi or bus to your hotel
  • Check-in at Hotel Ege (or similar) - a comfortable and centrally-located hotel with good reviews
  • Start the day by visiting the Edirne Castle (Edirne Kalesi), a 14th-century castle that offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside

Afternoon

  • Visit the nearby Selimiye Mosque (Selimiye Camii), one of the most beautiful and historic mosques in Turkey
  • Explore the bustling Merchants’ Market (Tüccar Çarşısı) for souvenirs, local food, and street performers
  • Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at Mimoza Restaurant, known for its delicious kebabs and meze platters

Evening

  • Wander through the charming streets of Edirne’s old town, taking in the sights and sounds of this historic city
  • Try some traditional Turkish desserts like baklava or kazandibi at Café de Pera

Day 2: Cultural Heritage

Morning

  • Visit the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography (Arkeoloji ve Etnografya Müzesi) to learn about Edirne’s rich history and cultural heritage
  • Explore the nearby Beylerbeyi Mosque (Beylerbeyi Camii), a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture

Afternoon

  • Visit the Vefa Kadinlar Hammami, one of the few remaining traditional Turkish baths in Turkey
  • Relax in the peaceful surroundings of the Edirne Park and Garden

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Alaturka, known for its delicious Turkish cuisine and cozy atmosphere

Day 3: Nature Escapes

Morning

  • Visit the Saraybaşı River, a beautiful spot for nature lovers and photographers
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank and enjoy the scenic views

Afternoon

  • Head to the nearby Edirne Lake (Edirne Gölü) for some relaxation and water sports
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch at the lake or visit one of the nearby cafes for refreshments

Evening

  • Return to Edirne city center and enjoy dinner at Restaurant Osmans

Day 4: Day Trip to İpsala

  • Take a day trip to the charming town of İpsala, located on the Turkish-Greek border
  • Visit the stunning Selimiye Bridge, a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture
  • Explore the nearby Enez Castle (Enez Kalesi) for some history and culture

Return to Edirne

  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Akdeniz

Day 5: Shopping and Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring the local markets
  • Visit the Edirne Bazaar, a bustling marketplace with a wide range of goods

Afternoon

  • Return to your hotel, pack up, and prepare for departure
  • Take a taxi or bus back to Edirne Selçuk Airport (ERI) for your flight home

Things to Know:

  • Language: Turkish is the official language, but many locals speak some English.
  • Currency: The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas.
  • Weather: Edirne has a temperate climate with hot summers and mild winters.
  • Safety: Edirne is generally a safe city for tourists.

Tips:

  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or other cultural sites.
  • Try some traditional Turkish cuisine, including kebabs, meze platters, and desserts like baklava or kazandibi.
  • Don’t forget to haggle at markets and bazaars, it’s all part of the fun!

Other things of interest:

  • Edirne has a rich history, with many historical sites and museums to explore.
  • The city is surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for hiking or exploring.
  • There are plenty of opportunities for water sports on the nearby lake.

Note: The itinerary can be adjusted based on personal preferences, time constraints, and other factors.