Things To Do
in Erzurum
Erzurum is a historically rich city in eastern Turkey, known for its unique blend of cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. The city is situated at a high altitude, making it one of the coldest places in Turkey, which contributes to its vibrant winter sports scene. Erzurum is famed for its distinctive architecture, particularly its Seljuk-era monuments, such as the Twin Minaret Madrasa.
Additionally, the city serves as a gateway to various outdoor adventures, including skiing and hiking in the surrounding mountains.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the majestic Çifte Minareli Medrese, a historical educational complex dating back to the 12th century.
Head to the Erzurum Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and explore its ancient walls. For lunch, try local delicacies at a nearby eatery.
End the day with a leisurely stroll in the city center, visiting local shops and enjoying a traditional Turkish dinner at a restaurant known for its kebabs.
Visit the Yakutiye Medrese, another stunning example of Seljuk architecture, followed by a visit to the Erzurum Archaeological Museum.
Spend the afternoon at Palandöken Mountain, where you can participate in skiing or snowboarding activities during the winter season.
After an adventurous day, unwind at a cafe in the city center, enjoying traditional Turkish tea and pastries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Restaurant | $10 |
| ☕Coffee | $2 |
| 🍞Loaf of Bread | $1 |
| 🍏Dozen Eggs | $3 |
| 🥬1 kg of Vegetables | $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites.
- Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Warm and hospitable locals.
- Harsh winters may not appeal to everyone.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation may be less frequent.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Evet" - Yes
Places to Visit in Erzurum
Visit one of these nice places.
An ancient fortress with stunning views, perfect for capturing the cityscape.
A remarkable example of Seljuk architecture, offering intricate details and a picturesque backdrop.
A breathtaking natural landscape, especially beautiful during winter when covered in snow.
Food in Erzurum
Erzurum Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty made of marinated lamb cooked on a horizontal skewer, served with lavash.
Must-Try!
A traditional meatball dish made with ground meat and rice, often served with yogurt.
Stuffed intestines with rice, meat, and spices, a unique local delicacy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local spices, and street food stalls.
Try local street foods like simit (sesame bread) and börek (savory pastry) from vendors around the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Showing respect to elders is important; it's common to greet them first.
While Erzurum is generally liberal, dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, is appreciated.
Turkish culture values hospitality; it's polite to accept offers of tea or food when visiting someone's home.
Safety
Tipping in Erzurum
Ensure a smooth experience
It's customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.
Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect cold temperatures and heavy snowfall, making it ideal for winter sports enthusiasts.
Mild weather with blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Warm temperatures, ideal for hiking and exploring historical sites.
Cooler weather with beautiful fall foliage, great for photography and outdoor excursions.
Erzurum at Night
Hiking in Erzurum
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning natural park featuring various trails suitable for all skill levels, with beautiful scenery and wildlife.
Offers a range of hiking opportunities with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and diverse flora.
Airports
How to reach Erzurum by plane.
Located about 10 km from the city center, it offers domestic flights and limited international connections, serving as the main gateway to Erzurum.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, making up the bulk of the population, with a rich cultural and historical background.
A significant minority group in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Erzurum.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Due to its snowy winters, skiing is a popular sport in Erzurum, particularly at Palandöken Ski Resort.
Football is widely followed in Erzurum, with local teams like Erzurumspor having a passionate fan base.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Erzurum.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat is a staple in local cuisine, there are vegetarian-friendly dishes available, such as lentil soup and stuffed peppers.
Gluten-free options may be limited, but you can request dishes without bread or wheat-based products.