Tekirdağ is a coastal town in northwestern Turkey, located on the shores of the Sea of Marmara, just 130 km from Istanbul.
It is known for its vineyards, sea breeze, gastronomy and friendly atmosphere where the tourist feels at home.
Tekirdag is the perfect place to enjoy the tranquility, nature and flavors of Turkish province.

📍 Geography and climate

• Region: Thrace (European part of Turkey)

• Population: about 210,000

• Location: between Istanbul and Edirne, on the northern shore of the Sea of Marmara

• Climate: temperate maritime

  • Summer: is warm and sunny (+26-32°C)

  • Winter: is mild with rain (+5-10°C).

The town is surrounded by hills and vineyards, and along the coast stretches a long promenade with beaches, cafes and yachts.

🏛 History

Tekirdag has a history of over 3000 years.

• Founded by the Greeks as Vizea (Bisanthe), later renamed Rhaedestus.

• During the Roman and Byzantine eras, the city was an important port on the way from Europe to Constantinople.

• During the Ottoman period, Tekirdag became a center of trade in wine, olive oil and carpets.

• After the founding of the Turkish Republic, the city became a resort and industrial and cultural center of the Thrace region.

📜 In the 18th century, the Hungarian hero Ferenc Rakoczy II lived and died here, to whom a museum is dedicated.

🕌 Main attractions

🏛 Rakoczi Museum (Rakoczi Müzesi)

• Dedicated to the Hungarian national hero who found refuge in the Ottoman Empire.

• Located in an old 18th century Ottoman house.

• The exhibition includes furniture, weapons, letters and paintings from that time.

• A symbol of friendship between Turkey and Hungary.

🕌 O ld Town and Rüstem Pasha Mosque (Rüstem Pasha Camii)

• Built in the 16th century by the famous architect Mimar Sinan.

• A classic example of Ottoman style: marble portal, dome and tiles.

• Nearby is an ancient bazaar with aromas of spices, coffee and halva.

🌊 Tekirdag's promenade and beaches

• Spacious promenade area with palm trees, bike paths and restaurants overlooking the sea.

• Beaches:

  • Süleymanpaşa Plajı - central city beach

  • Altınova - sandy, suitable for family vacations.

  • Kumbağ is a popular beach area with hotels and cafes.

  • Marmara Ereğlisi - picturesque coastal village with clear water and seaside restaurants.

🍇 Wineries and tastings

Tekirdağ is one of the centers of winemaking in Turkey.
The famous Doluca, Barel, Umurbey and Kutman wines are produced here.

• You can visit Doluca and Barel wineries for tours, tastings and sunset dinners.

• Local wines are famous for Papazkarası, Adakarası and Cabernet Sauvignon varieties.

🍷 Every June, Tekirdag hosts the Wine and Kebab Festival, attracting thousands of guests.

🏞 Namık Kemal Park and Museum (Namık Kemal Evi)

• Dedicated to the great Turkish poet and writer of the 19th century, a native of Tekirdag.

• The museum is located in his house and tells the story of his struggle for freedom and culture in the Ottoman era.

• There is a beautiful city park with fountains and sculptures nearby.

🌅 Naim Sultan Tepesi (Naim Sultan Hill) observation deck

• The best view of the Marmara Sea, the harbor and the sunset can be seen from here.

• A popular spot for photos and picnics.

🍽 Tekirdag Cuisine

The city's culinary fame is known throughout Turkey.
The main dish is the legendary Tekirdağ köftesi (tekirdağ köftesi).

🍴 What to try:

• Tekirdağ köftesi - juicy meat cutlets made of lamb and beef, served with spicy sauce, bread and ayran.

• Hayrabolu tatlısı - local dessert with cheese, syrup and pistachios.

• Yoğurtlu kebap - meat on a yogurt pillow.

• Midye tava - fried mussels with lemon.

• Tekirdağ rakısı - a local aniseed drink known for its mild flavor.

🧿 Tekirdağ is called "the taste of Thrace " - here even the street food is distinguished by the aroma of spices and the quality of meat.

🎭 Culture and traditions

• The city is known for Thracian folkloric dances, fun weddings and music festivals.

• Every June, the "Tekirdağ Kiraz Festivali" - Cherry Festival takes place, during which the streets are decorated with garlands, concerts and fairs.

• Locals take pride in their wines, kebabs and hospitality.

🚗 How to get there

• 🚗 F rom Istanbul: ~130 km (1.5-2 hours on highway E84 or D110)

• 🚌 Regular buses from Istanbul, Edirne and Çanakkale

• 🚢 Ferry from Avcılar or Yenikapı area to Marmara Ereğlisi

• ✈️ Nearest airport: Tekirdağ Çorlu Airport (TEQ) (~40 km)

✅ Why visit Tekirdağ

✔ Sea, sun and clean air
✔ Historical architecture and museums
✔ World-class wines and gastronomy
✔ Beautiful beaches and green hills
✔ Festivals and friendly people
✔ A cozy alternative to bustling Istanbul

📌 Conclusion

Tekirdag is a city of flavors, wine and tranquility where life flows slowly and beautifully.
Here you can enjoy the sea, taste the best Turkish wines, stroll the ancient streets and watch the sunset over the Sea of Marmara.
It combines European elegance and oriental soulfulness, remaining one of the coziest towns in Thrace.

"In Tekirdag everything is simple: sea, wine, kebabs and happiness." 🍇🌊