Eskişehir
· TR

Eskişehir

Eskisehir, Eskisehir, Turkey

Discover Eskişehir: Turkey's Youthful City of Art, History, and Charm Nestled on the banks of the Porsuk River, Eskişehir defies expectations. Forget the bustling metropolises of Istanbul or the coastal allure of Antalya…

#historic city#university town#culture#Odunpazarı#Porsuk River
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Eskişehir.

Top Hotels in Eskişehir

Top Flights to Eskişehir

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Eskişehir.

Tours

Odunpazarı Historical Urban Site

A beautifully preserved area showcasing traditional Ottoman architecture and modern art museums.

Shopping

Espark Shopping Mall

A large shopping center with a variety of shops, cafes, and entertainment options.

Outdoor

Sazova Park

A large park with various attractions including a castle, science center, and a pirate ship.

Porsuk River Cruise

Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Porsuk River through the heart of Eskişehir.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Eskişehir.

Currency
₺ | TRY | Turkish Lira
Population
The estimated total population of Eskişehir, Eskişehir, Turkey is approximately 0.9 million.
Languages
Turkish, Turkish
Average weather
Eskişehir
Jan
snow
4°-4°
Feb
cold
6°-3°
Mar
cloud
11°0°
Apr
rain
17°5°
May
sun
22°9°
Jun
clear
27°13°
Jul
hot
30°16°
Aug
hot
30°16°
Sep
clear
25°12°
Oct
cloud
19°7°
Nov
rain
12°2°
Dec
cold
6°-2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Eskişehir.

What people love

Eskişehir, located in Turkey, is a charming city with a rich history and vibrant culture. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Eskişehir:

  1. Historical Sites: Eskişehir is home to numerous historical sites, including the Odunpazarı district with its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, the Eskişehir Castle, and the Kurşunlu Mosque. History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring these sites and learning about the city's past.

  2. Porsuk River: The Porsuk River runs through Eskişehir and offers beautiful scenery and opportunities for activities like river cruises, picnicking along the riverbanks, and enjoying waterside cafes and restaurants. Visitors can also take a leisurely walk along the river to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

  3. Cultural Attractions: Eskişehir is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with art galleries, museums, and theaters showcasing the city's artistic talents. The city is also famous for its traditional handicrafts, such as meerschaum carving and ceramics, which make for unique souvenirs.

  4. Thermal Springs: Eskişehir is home to several thermal springs, including the popular Balçova Thermal Springs. Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters of these springs, which are believed to have therapeutic properties.

  5. Festivals and Events: Eskişehir hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating art, culture, and local traditions. The International Eskişehir Film Festival and the Eskişehir Puppet Days are just a few of the events that attract locals and tourists alike.

  6. Culinary Delights: Eskişehir offers a diverse culinary scene, with traditional Turkish dishes, as well as international cuisine. Visitors can sample local specialties like çibörek (fried pastry with minced meat) and tarhana soup, as well as indulge in delicious desserts like höşmerim (a sweet cheese dessert).

Overall, Eskişehir is a destination that offers a mix of history, culture, nature, and relaxation, making it a great choice for travelers looking for a unique and memorable experience.

What to know

Eskişehir is a beautiful city in Turkey with many attractions and things to do. However, like any destination, there are some cons to consider when traveling there:

  1. Weather: Eskişehir can experience extreme temperatures, with hot summers and cold winters. Travelers should be prepared for these weather conditions and pack accordingly.

  2. Language Barrier: While English is spoken in tourist areas, the primary language spoken in Eskişehir is Turkish. Travelers may encounter challenges communicating with locals who do not speak English fluently.

  3. Cultural Differences: Eskişehir has its own unique culture, customs, and traditions. Travelers should be respectful of local customs and traditions to avoid any cultural misunderstandings.

  4. Transportation: Public transportation in Eskişehir may not be as efficient or reliable as in other major cities. Travelers may need to rely on taxis or private transportation to get around the city.

  5. Crowds: Eskişehir is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak travel seasons. Travelers may encounter crowds at popular attractions and restaurants.

Overall, while Eskişehir is a wonderful destination to visit, travelers should be aware of these potential cons and plan accordingly to have a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Eskişehir is a city in northwestern Turkey and serves as the capital of the Eskişehir Province. The city has a rich and varied history, having been influenced by various civilizations over the centuries.

Ancient and Medieval Periods

  1. Phrygian Era: Eskişehir is believed to have been established around 1000 BC by the Phrygians. The remnants of the ancient Phrygian city of Dorylaeum are near modern-day Eskişehir. The Phrygians were known for their advanced culture and craftsmanship.

  2. Roman and Byzantine Periods: The city was known as Dorylaeum during Roman times and was an important military base because of its strategic location. It continued to be significant during the Byzantine era, often serving as a battleground during the conflicts between the Byzantines and the Seljuks.

Seljuk and Ottoman Era

  1. Seljuk Conquest: In the 11th century, the Seljuks conquered the area, and Eskişehir became part of the Seljuk Empire. It was at this time that the city began to develop its distinct Turkish character.

  2. Ottoman Empire: The Ottomans took control of Eskişehir in the late 13th century. The city grew as a trade and cultural center due to its location on major trade routes. During the Ottoman period, Eskişehir was known for its crafts, particularly meerschaum pipe carving, which remains a notable industry today.

Modern Era

  1. Republic of Turkey: After the Turkish War of Independence, led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Eskişehir became part of the Republic of Turkey. The establishment of the Republic in 1923 marked a period of modernization and industrialization for the city.

Significant Events

  • Battle of Dorylaeum (1097): One of the notable events in Eskişehir's history was the Battle of Dorylaeum during the First Crusade, where the Crusaders defeated the Seljuk Turks.
  • Turkish War of Independence (1919-1923): Eskişehir was a strategic location during the war, with several key battles taking place in the area. The city suffered damage but played a significant role in the formation of modern Turkey.

Historical Figures

  • Yunus Emre: A famous Turkish poet and Sufi mystic, Yunus Emre is believed to have lived in the region around the 13th to 14th centuries. His philosophical and mystical works are still influential in Turkish culture.

Important Landmarks

  • Odunpazarı: Known for its traditional Ottoman architecture, this neighborhood is a cultural and historical heart of the city.
  • Eskişehir Meerschaum Museum: Showcases the city's traditional craft of meerschaum pipe carving.
  • Eskişehir Aviation Museum: Highlights the city's modern contribution to aviation and industry.
  • Phrygian Valley: Although slightly outside the city, this area is rich in ancient ruins and rock formations linked to the Phrygians.

Eskişehir today is known for its vibrant cultural scene and universities, including Anadolu University, which is one of the largest in Turkey. The city's blend of history and modernization makes it an interesting place for both historical exploration and contemporary life.