Weekend in Edirne

Edirne's oldest surviving mosque, built in the early 15th century. Known for its grand calligraphic inscriptions on the interior walls and a simple, serene atmosphere.

Tip: Look up to see the fine 15th-century tiles around the mihrab. The surrounding bazaar streets are good for cheap snacks like ciğer tava (fried liver).

Mimar Sinan's masterpiece, a UNESCO World Heritage site with soaring minarets and a vast domed prayer hall. Entrance to the mosque is free, though the adjacent museum costs a small

Tip: Go at sunset for the best light on the tiles and call to prayer. Remove shoes before entering; a plastic bag is provided for carrying them.

A wide paved walkway along the Meriç River, popular with locals for evening strolls. The memorial at the waterfront commemorates the Balkan Wars. Benches and open space free to use.

Tip: Come at dusk for the best views of the illuminated Selimiye Mosque across the river. Street vendors sell roasted corn and sunflower seeds for a few lira.

Scattered remains of the Ottoman sultans' summer palace, set in a peaceful park by the Tunca River. You can see the kitchen complex, bathhouse and crumbling walls.

Tip: Combine with the adjacent Edirne Museum (small fee) to see artefacts from the palace. Bring a picnic; there's a shaded grassy area near the riverbank.

The historic venue for Turkey's annual oil wrestling championships. The small museum (about 20 lira) displays trophies, photos and wrestlers' costumes from the 600-year-old tradition.

Tip: Visit in June/July if you want to catch the actual festival—it's free to watch outside the arena. Otherwise, the museum gives a solid 30-minute insight into this unique sport.