Things To Do
in Erzincan
Erzincan is a historic city in Eastern Anatolia framed by rugged mountains and the winding waters of the Melet and other valleys. It blends remnants of ancient fortifications with a lively market culture and warm Anatolian hospitality. The region is renowned for hearty, dairy- and meat-forward cuisine, with Cağ kebabı standing out as a regional specialty.
Erzincan serves as a compact base for nearby canyons, traditional villages, and panoramic viewpoints that reward curious travelers with authentic experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Erzincan Castle, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Afterward, wander through the narrow streets of the old town, admiring traditional architecture and local shops. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring freshly baked simit and Turkish tea.
In the afternoon, head to the Erzincan Archaeological Museum to explore artifacts that showcase the region's rich history, including ancient relics from the Hittite era. Next, take a stroll along the picturesque riverside promenade, where you can relax and take in the natural beauty of the Euphrates River. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant, trying authentic Erzincan kebabs and other regional specialties.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at a local eatery, where you can sample mezes and fresh fish from the river. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the vibrant streets of Erzincan, perhaps stopping for dessert at a local patisserie known for its baklava. Conclude your evening by sipping Turkish coffee while enjoying live music at a nearby café.
Begin your day with an early drive to Munzur Valley National Park, where you can immerse yourself in the stunning natural landscapes of mountains, rivers, and lush greenery. Take a guided nature walk, listening to the sounds of wildlife and discovering the diverse flora that thrives in this protected area. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst the serene surroundings, perhaps by a crystal-clear stream.
In the afternoon, engage in hiking along the well-marked trails, with options for various skill levels, allowing you to explore hidden waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints. Settle down for a picnic lunch in a scenic spot, relishing local cheese, olives, and fresh bread. For the adventurous spirit, consider trying rock climbing or horseback riding offered in the park.
As you make your way back to Erzincan, stop at a local village to experience traditional customs and meet the friendly locals. Once back in the city, dine at a restaurant that specializes in regional dishes, where you can try the famous Erzincan Tulum cheese. Wind down your day by visiting a local tea house, enjoying the cozy ambiance and perhaps playing a game of backgammon.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🚌Public transportation (local bus/mini-bus) | $0.5-1.5 per ride |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-3 |
| 🧀Milk, bread, dairy products (local groceries) | $2-5 |
| 🧁Pastry or dessert | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality
- Accessible base for nearby natural and historical sites
- Limited nightlife and some infrastructure compared to major cities
- Winter travel can be challenging due to snow and icy roads
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "İngilizce biliyor musunuz?" - Do you speak English?
- "Vejetaryenim" - I am vegetarian
- "Bu ne kadar?" - How much is this?
- "Nerede?" - Where is it?
- "Güle güle" - Goodbye
- "Afiyet olsun" - Enjoy your meal
Places to Visit in Erzincan
Visit one of these nice places.
Ruins and ramparts offering city panoramas, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Colorful market lanes and traditional houses provide atmospheric street photography and candid moments.
Spectacular basalt cliffs and river views—dramatic compositions, particularly with dramatic skies.
Timeless architecture and surrounding plazas ideal for architectural shots.
Food in Erzincan
Erzincan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A lamb kebab marinated and grilled on a horizontal spit, typically served with lavash bread, onions, parsley, and sumac.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted lamb or mutton kebab, tender and richly flavored, commonly enjoyed with pilaf and yogurt.
Meat with homemade egg noodles in a rich broth or sauce, a comforting regional dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market where locals buy fresh produce, dairy, spices, and regional snacks; a great place to sample street foods and buy souvenirs.
Along busy lanes you’ll find sesame-simit, roasted chestnuts, and quick bites, ideal for a casual lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings with 'Merhaba' or 'Selam'; use formal 'siz' with strangers; dress modestly in religious sites.
Ask permission before taking portraits of people; some areas may require consent; remove shoes when entering mosques.
Guests are often offered tea; accepting and sharing meals is common; showing appreciation is valued.
Safety
Tipping in Erzincan
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a 5-10% tip is appreciated if service is good; rounding up is common in casual places.
Turkish Lira is widely used; credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, larger restaurants, and shops in Erzincan. Cash is still useful in markets and smaller cafes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with dry conditions and cooler nights in the mountains; occasional thunderstorms; stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Mild days and cool evenings; harvest season in surrounding villages; colorful foliage in parks and along riverbanks.
Cold and snowy in the hills; some routes and passes can be challenging; pack warm clothing and plan for longer travel times.
Pleasant temperatures; blooming landscapes and green valleys; great for city strolls and short hikes.
Erzincan at Night
Hiking in Erzincan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Nearby trails around Ergan Dağı with seasonal scenery and vantage points over the city.
Basalt canyon near Kemah offering day hike options with dramatic rock formations and river views.
Airports
How to reach Erzincan by plane.
Small domestic airport with connections to major hubs; check seasonal schedules for flights to Istanbul and Ankara.
Larger regional airport with more flight options; about a few hours' drive from Erzincan and useful for broader connections.
Nearby airports provide additional routes; longer drives but useful for extended itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish-speaking population with a rural-urban mix in the city area.
There are communities with Kurdish or Zazaki linguistic presence in the broader region.
Religious demographic diversity reflects broader Eastern Anatolian demographics.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed with local club involvement; match days offer lively community atmosphere.
Culturally significant in provincial areas and during festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Erzincan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Meat-free options include lentil or vegetable soups, pide with vegetables, grilled vegetables, dairy-based meze, and salads. Ask for dishes without meat or broth and opt for yogurt-based sauces or ayran.