Eskişehir is a vibrant university city in western Anatolia, known as Turkey's "student capital" and the birthplace of meerschaum carving. The Porsuk River winds through the city centre past Venetian-style canals, gondola rides, and colourful bridges. The historic Odunpazarı district preserves beautifully restored Ottoman timber houses and is on Turkey's tentative UNESCO World Heritage list. Eskişehir hosts two major universities — Anadolu University and Eskişehir Technical University — whose combined enrolment of over 100,000 students gives the city a youthful, progressive energy unusual for inner Anatolia.
Top attractions
The most popular and significant attractions in Eskişehir.
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1
Odunpazarı Historic District
Beautifully restored Ottoman timber houses, meerschaum workshops, galleries, and boutique cafés
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2
Porsuk River Canal Boats
Gondola and pedal-boat rides along the illuminated Porsuk River through the city centre
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3
Meerschaum Museum (Lületaşı Müzesi)
World-class collection of intricately carved meerschaum pipes and sculptures
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4
Sazova Science, Art and Culture Park
Vast park with fairy-tale castle, Japanese garden, planetarium, and science museum
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5
Eskişehir Museum of Modern Glass Art
Turkey's only museum dedicated to contemporary glass art, located in Odunpazarı
Attractions by category
Explore by your interests.
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Practical information
What you need to know before you go.
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Tips for visiting attractions
Make the most of your sightseeing time.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday light.
Book tickets online in advance for major attractions to skip long queues and sometimes save money.
Many cities offer multi-attraction passes that include public transport. Calculate whether they save you money based on your itinerary.
Frequently asked questions
What is meerschaum?
Meerschaum (lületaşı in Turkish) is a soft white mineral found mainly in the Eskişehir region. It is world-famous for being carved into intricate pipe bowls and decorative objects.
Is Odunpazarı worth visiting?
Absolutely. The colourful Ottoman timber houses, street art, workshops, and cafés make it one of Turkey's most photogenic historic neighbourhoods.
Can visitors enter the mosques?
Yes — all mosques in Eskişehir welcome visitors outside of prayer times. Remove shoes and cover shoulders and knees.