Edirne is a historic city in northwestern Turkey, situated at the confluence of the Tunca and Meriç rivers near the borders with Greece and Bulgaria. Once the Ottoman capital known as Adrianople, Edirne served as the empire's most important city from 1369 to 1453 before Mehmed II conquered Constantinople. Today the city is celebrated for the UNESCO-listed Selimiye Mosque — architect Mimar Sinan's acknowledged masterpiece — alongside a remarkable cluster of Ottoman mosques, bazaars, and palace ruins. Edirne hosts the Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival, one of the world's oldest sporting events, held annually for over 660 years at the riverside Sarayiçi grounds.
Current safety advisory
Generally Safe With Normal Precautions
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) in separate locations.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.