Eskisehir

Introduction

You will find this city situated in northwestern Turkey, where it serves as the capital of the Eskişehir Province.

Before you go

Prepare for a climate characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters, with mild conditions during the spring and autumn months. As you navigate the city, you will encounter a landscape shaped by both ancient history and modern transformation. While much of the original Phrygian architecture was lost to time and conflict, the area remains rich in cultural layers, from the remnants of early civilizations to the influence of 19th-century settlers who helped shape the region's progressive atmosphere.

The city’s identity is rooted in its transition from an industrial past toward a modern knowledge economy. You will find a vibrant atmosphere in the areas surrounding the universities, where a large student population fosters a liberal environment and greater fluency in English and other European languages. Explore the distinct character of different districts: the compact old town of Odunpazarı, the lively riverside strip of Adalar, and the pedestrianized street of Hamyamolu.

Getting there

You can reach the city via several transportation methods, including train, bus, or car. The railway network features high-speed trains from Istanbul, Ankara, Konya, and Karaman. If you arrive by plane at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen, you can take a taxi or bus to Pendik station to catch a train to the city. Alternatively, there is an airport located north of town that offers seasonal flights to destinations like Brussels.

For those traveling by road, the city is situated between Istanbul, Ankara, and Bursa. You can navigate the regional highways to reach your destination from any of these major hubs. If you prefer traveling by bus, frequent services run from Istanbul, while connections are also available from Bursa, Antalya, Izmir, and Adana. Upon arrival at the local bus station near the highway, you can take a tram to reach the city center.

Getting around

You can explore the sights of the old town on foot, as they are located within a compact area surrounding Kurșunlu Mosque. For longer journeys across the city, an extensive tram network provides multiple routes connecting major hubs like the bus station, the railway station, and various university campuses. You can also utilize dolmuşes and public buses to reach other areas of the city, or experience a traditional ride in one of the horse-drawn carriages that resemble 19th-century carriages.

When you need a taxi, look for buttons resembling electric switches located on walls and trees along the main streets; pressing one will signal the nearest taxi to pick you up.

Where to stay

You can choose from a variety of accommodations depending on your preferred atmosphere and location within the city. For those seeking character, stay in an old konak where you can enjoy a pleasant room for breakfast and socializing near the museums, or opt for a charming, creaky mansion. If you prefer a more traditional experience in the town centre, a venerable concrete slab provides comfortable lodging.

For a more modern experience, several options are available in the business district area of Hoşnudiye, including clean and smart facilities located near the main highway or the railway station. Other reliable choices include chain hotels that offer consistent cleanliness, while some local spots provide simple accommodations with included breakfast.

Savor the local flavors of the region by trying a Donas, a hearty wrap filled with chicken meat, potatoes, and vegetables topped with sauce. For a traditional taste, seek out Çi börek, a Crimean Tatar delicacy consisting of deep-fried, half-moon shaped dough filled with minced meat, onion, and black pepper. You can find these savory pastries at several locations near the Kurşunlu Mosque or along the Porsuk bridge area. If you prefer mainstream Turkish cuisine, local eateries offer traditional dishes, while western fast food options are available in the vicinity of the Porsuk bridge.

Explore various drinking spots depending on your preference for atmosphere. You can find several pubs and wine bars near the railway station or along Vural Street, which hosts a variety of venues ranging from beer-focused spots to lively bars. For an experience featuring traditional Turkish music, visit a self-service bar nearby, or head toward the Porsuk boulevard if you prefer a cafe-bar equipped with a large screen for watching sports.

What to see and do

Explore the historic Odunpazarı district, where you can wander through cobbled streets lined with colorful renovated Ottoman houses. Within this area, you can visit the Seljuk-style Alaedin Mosque or explore various specialized museums, including a collection of old typewriters, a gallery of wood carvings, and a museum dedicated to meerschaum—a soft white clay used for making tobacco pipes. Other nearby sites include the Kurşunlu Mosque complex, which features a glass arts workshop, and the Atatürk House, where you can see the interior of a mansion once stayed in by the leader. For those interested in modern art or local history, the Odunpazarı Modern Museum is housed in a building made of sustainably harvested wood, while nearby museums document the Republic's founding, the War of Independence, and the city's archaeological past.

Beyond the old town, you can visit several landmarks and parks:

• The ETİ Archaeology Museum, which showcases local history from the Stone Age to the Byzantine era.
• The Türasaş Museum, home to a rare, hand-crafted Turkish car from 1961.
• The Aviation Park, an open-air military aviation museum.
• Kentpark, located on the banks of the Porsuk River, which features an artificial beach and a nearby small island.
• Sazova Park, a large leisure complex featuring a zoo, an aquarium, a science and space center, a Japanese Garden, and a miniature railway.

For those traveling further out, you can visit the ruins of the Byzantine hilltop fortress at Karacahisar or see the rock-cut reliefs in the Phrygian Valley near Yazılı. If you prefer local experiences, you can relax in one of the traditional Turkish baths located near the Çarşı Mosque or enjoy a family-oriented funfair at Kılıç Lunapark.

When to go

You can experience a variety of seasonal shifts in Eskişehir, from the snowy landscapes of winter to the warm, dry atmosphere of summer. During the winter months, you will encounter cold and snowy conditions, while the city's high altitude ensures that nightly temperatures remain cool. If you prefer milder weather, spring brings warming temperatures accompanied by moderate rainfall.

During the summer, you can enjoy warm days and dry conditions, though the high altitude keeps the nights cool. Autumn offers a transition as temperatures cool, bringing another period of moderate rainfall throughout the season.

Three days in Eskisehir

Day one, you can begin your journey by exploring the Odunpazar district to experience its unique character. You can walk along Vural Street and enjoy the local atmosphere.

Day two, you can head toward the Porsuk river area. While you are there, you can find time to savor Turkish flavors in the heart of the city.

Day three, you can visit the Kurşunlu Mosque to appreciate the architecture before concluding your stay in the city.