Eskişehir, located in northwestern Turkey, is a city where old meets new in unexpected ways. Known for its youthful vibe due to its two major universities, the city is also deeply rooted in history. It sits along the Porsuk River, which winds through lively neighborhoods and parks. The riverfront, once mostly industrial, has been transformed into a place where gondolas pass under bridges and locals gather at riverside cafes. Despite its modern appearance, Eskişehir’s roots go back to the Phrygians and even earlier, with archaeological finds in nearby Yazılıkaya and Seyitgazi hinting at ancient Anatolian civilizations.

One of Eskişehir’s most distinctive features is its use of meerschaum, a soft white mineral mined only in a few parts of the world, most famously near the city. Local artisans carve intricate pipes, jewelry, and figurines from it, and visitors can explore the Meerschaum Museum to see the detail and craftsmanship that goes into each piece. Odunpazarı, the city’s historic quarter, has been carefully restored and now houses galleries, boutiques, and small museums in its colorful Ottoman-era homes. The Museum of Modern Glass Art is located here, showcasing both local and international works in glass.