Edirne Turkey 3 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring the Historical Gems
Morning:
- Arrival in Edirne. You can reach here by bus or train from Istanbul, or fly directly to Trakya Airport (TKY). Check-in at your hotel and freshen up.
- Start your day with a hearty Turkish breakfast at Çarşı Evleri (Market Houses), a local favorite known for its traditional dishes.
Afternoon:
- Visit the Selimiye Mosque designed by the great architect Mimar Sinan, considered one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture.
- Head to the Türk Hava Kurumu Anadolu Aviation Museum if you’re interested in aviation history.
- Have lunch at Köprülü Restaurant, located near the Selimiye Mosque, offering traditional Turkish cuisine with a riverside view.
Evening:
- Explore the bustling Edirne Bazaar for some shopping and local delicacies. Don’t miss the famous Edirne simit (Turkish bagel) from one of the street vendors!
- Dine at Hünkar Beğendi, a popular restaurant serving traditional Turkish dishes, including the namesake Hünkar Beğendi (Sultan’s Delight).
Day 2: Nature and Leisure
Morning:
- After breakfast, visit the Thermal Baths of Bayram Pasa. Relax and rejuvenate in these historic baths.
- Take a leisurely stroll around Iskiler Park. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery.
Afternoon:
- Head to the Edirne Forest Farm for a unique experience with animals. You can also enjoy a picnic lunch here.
- For dinner, try Ağa Cafe, known for its home-cooked dishes and warm atmosphere.
Evening:
- End your day at the Rumeli Hıdır Mosque, especially beautiful during sunset.
- Have dinner at Hamsi Restaurant, famous for its fried anchovies and other seafood delicacies.
Day 3: Cultural Immersion
Morning:
- Visit the İmrahor Mosque and Çesme Sultan Köşkü, a beautiful Ottoman mansion now turned museum.
- Have lunch at Aydın Kahvesi, known for its traditional Turkish tea and pastries.
Afternoon:
- Spend your afternoon exploring the Edirne Synagogue, one of the largest and most well-preserved synagogues in Turkey.
- Head to the nearby Trakya University Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region.
Evening:
- Enjoy a farewell dinner at Köprülü Restaurant again, or try a new place like Nur Restaurant, known for its delicious kebabs.
- Pack your bags and prepare for departure the next day. Don’t forget to buy some souvenirs from the Edirne Bazaar!
Things to Know:
- The official currency is Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments, but it’s always good to have cash on hand.
- The best time to visit is during spring or autumn for a comfortable climate. Summers can be very hot, while winters can be quite cold.
- English is not as widely spoken as in Istanbul, so having a translation app or learning some basic Turkish phrases can be helpful.
- Taxis are readily available, but it’s also easy to get around by bus. The city is relatively small and walkable.