Explore Edirne – The Former Ottoman Capital Near Istanbul
Located near the borders of Greece and Bulgaria, Edirne is a historic city that once served as the second capital of the Ottoman Empire before Istanbul. Famous for its stunning mosques, lively bazaars, and cultural heritage, Edirne is a must-visit destination for those who want to explore beyond Istanbul. With saw airport shuttle or sabiha gokcen airport transfer, your saw airport to city connection can easily continue to Edirne for a memorable day trip.
Selimiye Mosque (Selimiye Camii)
A masterpiece of Mimar Sinan, Selimiye Mosque is one of the greatest works of Ottoman architecture and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its massive dome and elegant minarets dominate the city’s skyline, symbolizing Edirne’s glory.
Historic Bazaars & Bridges
- Ali Paşa Bazaar & Bedesten: Traditional covered markets where you can shop for souvenirs, local products, and handicrafts.
- Meriç & Tunca Bridges: Elegant Ottoman stone bridges that offer scenic river views and connect different parts of the city.
Traditional Cuisine
Edirne is famous for its delicious ciğer tava (fried liver), a dish you can find in almost every local restaurant. Don’t miss tasting this regional specialty along with Turkish desserts and fresh produce from local markets.
Cultural Heritage & Festivals
- Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival: The world’s oldest traditional sports event, held every summer in Edirne.
- Historic Caravanserais & Hamams: Reflecting Edirne’s role as a major Ottoman trade and cultural hub.
Why Visit Edirne?
- Explore the UNESCO-listed Selimiye Mosque
- Enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine in a historic setting
- Discover lively bazaars and Ottoman-era bridges
- Experience a city rich in multicultural history at the crossroads of Europe
Getting to Edirne
Edirne is about 240 km from Istanbul and can be reached in 2.5–3 hours by car or bus. Arriving at Sabiha Gokcen Airport? With sabiha gokcen airport shuttle or private saw airport transfer, you can travel from sabiha airport to city and continue comfortably towards Edirne.
