Things To Do
in Aşkale
Aşkale is a highland town in Erzurum Province set among pine-covered hills and sweeping valleys. It serves as a gateway to Erzurum’s rugged mountain scenery and seasonal markets, offering a calm, rural tempo away from bigger cities. Winters bring snow and crisp air, while summers offer cooler days in a scenic, elevated landscape.
Visitors can explore traditional stone houses, sample hearty Erzurum cuisine, and use Aşkale as a base for day trips into the surrounding highlands.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Aşkale Fortress, a historical site that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Spend time wandering through the narrow streets filled with traditional Turkish architecture, stopping for photographs and local encounters. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a nearby café, featuring fresh bread, olives, and local cheeses.
Visit the Aşkale Museum, where you can learn about the region's rich history through fascinating exhibits and artifacts. Take a leisurely stroll through the local market, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere while sampling delicious street food. Before heading back, consider visiting a local artisan shop to pick up handmade crafts as souvenirs.
As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant, savoring dishes like kebabs and mezes. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the river, where you can hear the gentle flow of water and spot locals enjoying the evening. End your day with a cup of Turkish tea at a local café, soaking in the serene ambiance.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby mountains, where you can breathe in the crisp air and enjoy nature's beauty. The trails offer various levels of difficulty, allowing you to choose one that suits your preference while marveling at the stunning views. Pack a light breakfast to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint, where you can take in the tranquility of the surroundings.
After your hike, visit the local botanical gardens, where you can stroll among diverse plant species native to the region. Take a moment to relax by the ponds, watching the ducks and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. For lunch, indulge in a picnic with local delicacies like gözleme and fresh fruit, surrounded by nature.
As the day winds down, return to the town and find a cozy restaurant that offers local specialties. Engage with the friendly locals who are eager to share stories about Aşkale’s culture and history. Conclude your evening by attending a cultural performance, if available, to experience traditional Turkish music and dance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🛏️One-night hotel room | $25-60 |
| 🚌Local transportation ticket | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏛️Museum entrance fee | $3-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful highland scenery and a calm base for exploring Erzurum Province
- Authentic small-town hospitality and affordable prices
- Limited nightlife and dining options within Aşkale itself
- Weather can restrict travel in winter and high-season demands planning
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede tuvalet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?
- "Burası neresi?" - Where is this place?
- "Türkçe konuşamıyorum" - I do not speak Turkish
Places to Visit in Aşkale
Visit one of these nice places.
A vantage point in the town center that captures the stone architecture against the surrounding hills, especially appealing at golden hour.
A short hike or drive to a hill overlooking Aşkale for expansive valley and mountain views.
A peaceful riverside bend with reflections of trees and sky, ideal for nature photography and candid moments.
Open fields and pine forests at dusk provide warm, soft light perfect for landscape photography.
Food in Aşkale
Aşkale Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lamb skewers slowly roasted over charcoal; iconic Erzurum specialty commonly found in kebap houses in Erzurum city and nearby towns.
Must-Try!
Dainty dumplings topped with garlicky yogurt, melted butter, and paprika oil, a comforting staple in the region.
A traditional barley-based dessert sweetened with molasses and nuts, often enjoyed after meals.
A tangy, hearty soup made from fermented yogurt and flour, perfect for warming up in cooler seasons.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh dairy, breads, vegetables, honey, and regional snacks; great for tasting local produce.
Historic market zone in the region where you can sample street foods, buy dried fruits, nuts, and traditional foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm “Merhaba” and a smile; a handshake is common among acquaintances. Address elders with polite language and, if unsure, use “Bey” or “Hanım” after names.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Remove shoes when entering mosques and follow local signage.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in rural or religious settings. Be discreet and respectful of private moments.
Avoid loud behavior in public spaces; small talk about family and local topics is common and friendly.
Safety
Tipping in Aşkale
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In sit-down restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% for good service is common if no service charge is included. Cafés and teahouses typically do not expect tips, but small gestures are welcome.
Cash (Turkish Lira) is widely accepted in small towns. Cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments in Erzurum city, but some places in Aşkale may be cash-only. Always have some cash for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild daytime temperatures with cooler nights. Occasional rain—carry a light jacket and a small umbrella. Ideal for hiking and outdoor markets.
Cold, snowy conditions with potential road closures due to ice. Pack warm layers, waterproof boots, and photographic gear protection. Winter sports opportunities exist further in Erzurum province.
Variable weather with blooming flora; carry layers and a light rain jacket. Great for village visits and short hikes.
Crisp air and golden-hued landscapes; good for long walks and market visits. Snow may begin to appear in higher elevations later in the season.
Aşkale at Night
Hiking in Aşkale
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beginner-friendly loop through pine forests and open meadows with sweeping valley views; best in late spring to autumn.
Ridge route leading toward Palandöken foothills offering expansive panorama; more challenging and best in clear weather.
Scenic riverside trail with birdlife and quiet campsites; suitable for easy to moderate hikes.
Airports
How to reach Aşkale by plane.
Nearest major airport serving the region; typically a 1-2 hour drive to Aşkale depending on weather and road conditions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Turkish with rural families and an aging population; several families in surrounding villages contribute to a tight-knit community.
Seasonal and casual visitors exploring Erzurum Province, particularly in summer and winter tourism periods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at local clubs and informal games in parks and school grounds.
Winter sport access in Erzurum province with nearby ski facilities; day trips from Aşkale are common in season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aşkale.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find vegetarian-friendly dishes by focusing on Tarhana soup, mantı fillings without meat, börek with cheese or spinach, fresh salads, grilled vegetables, and dairy-based dishes. When ordering, ask for 'etsiz' (no meat) and request garlic yogurt or olive oil as toppings.