Things To Do
in Erzurum
Erzurum is a city located in eastern Turkey, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is home to notable landmarks such as the Erzurum Castle, a symbol of the city's past importance. The city experiences cold winters with heavy snowfall, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Erzurum also offers traditional Turkish cuisine and hospitality, attracting visitors looking to experience authentic Anatolian culture.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the breathtaking Palandöken Mountain. Enjoy a cable car ride to take in stunning panoramic views.
Have lunch at a local restaurant and try the famous Cağ Kebab. After lunch, explore the lush surrounding landscapes on a short hike.
Return to the city and dine at a traditional Erzurum restaurant. Enjoy the local ambiance while tasting regional dishes.
Visit the iconic Erzurum Castle, a symbol of the city's historical significance. Explore the ancient walls while enjoying the views of the city.
Afterwards, head to the Yakutiye Medrese, an exquisite example of Seljuk architecture. Spend some time learning about its historical importance.
Enjoy dinner in the city and savor a unique experience at a café overlooking the castle. Reflect on the day while soaking in the night view.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, with historical sites such as the Erzurum Citadel and the Yakutiye Medrese.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including mountains and forests, ideal for outdoor activities like skiing and hiking.
- Local cuisine features unique dishes, providing an authentic taste of Turkish culture.
- Strong community ties and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a friendly place for visitors.
- Relatively low cost of living compared to major Turkish cities like Istanbul or Ankara.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall and low temperatures, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Limited access to international travel options due to its location and smaller airport.
- Economic opportunities may be less abundant compared to larger urban centers.
- Possible language barrier, as English is not widely spoken among the local population.
- Infrastructure and public transportation may not be as developed as in larger cities.
Best Activities in Erzurum
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Erzurum is a popular destination for skiing, with several ski resorts including Palandöken and Konakli offering a range of slopes for all levels of skiers.
The snowy terrain and well-maintained slopes in Erzurum make it an ideal location for snowboarding enthusiasts.
Visitors can explore the beautiful natural landscapes of Erzurum through various hiking trails in the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Erzurum is surrounded by mountain ranges, providing ample opportunities for mountaineering and climbing excursions.
Tours
Uncover the best of Erzurum with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Erzurum
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of Erzurum and surrounding areas, especially popular for winter sports and photography.
Provides a historical backdrop for scenic photos, with views of the city and mountains from its elevated position.
Unique geological formations offering picturesque views and great photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Food in Erzurum
Erzurum Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Turkish kebab made from lamb or beef, often seasoned with local herbs and grilled on a horizontal skewer. Must-try at Asagi Cag Kebap in Erzurum.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked lamb or goat meat, typically prepared in a clay oven. Recommended to try at Tandirci Niyazi Usta restaurant.
A refreshing yogurt-based drink that pairs well with the local cuisine. Available at most restaurants and cafes in Erzurum.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide variety of local produce, spices, and traditional snacks. Street vendors here are known for serving delicious borek, a savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
A popular street food in Erzurum, Palu Sarmasi is a rolled pancake filled with a sweet walnut mixture. Look for street vendors selling this delightful treat in the city center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Erzurum, it is polite to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
It is respectful to dress modestly in Erzurum, particularly when visiting religious sites or in more conservative areas.
It's important to respect local customs and traditions in Erzurum, such as removing shoes before entering someone's home or following mealtime etiquette.
Safety
Tipping in Erzurum
Ensure a smooth experience
In Erzurum, Turkey, tipping is not expected but is appreciated in the service industry. It is common to leave a small amount of change or round up the bill as a token of appreciation for good service.
In Erzurum, Turkey, cash is widely used for transactions, especially in smaller businesses and local markets. However, credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in larger cities and tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Erzurum, with pleasant weather and blooming landscapes. Ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty.
Another good time to visit Erzurum, with warm weather perfect for exploring the city and surrounding areas. Summer also offers festivals and cultural events.
A beautiful time to visit Erzurum, with colorful foliage and cooler temperatures. Ideal for hiking and enjoying the fall scenery.
Great for winter sports enthusiasts, as Erzurum is known for its ski resorts and snowy landscapes. It can be very cold, so dress accordingly.
Erzurum at Night
Hiking in Erzurum
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular ski resort in the winter, Palandöken Mountain also offers numerous hiking trails with stunning views during the summer. The slopes are challenging but rewarding for hikers looking for adventure.
Located near Erzurum, Dumanlı Plateau features lush greenery and a serene environment. Hiking here allows visitors to experience the natural beauty of Turkey's Eastern Anatolia region.
A high mountain pass that connects the Eastern Anatolia with the Black Sea region, Zigana offers beautiful trails suitable for all levels. Hikers can enjoy diverse flora and breathtaking mountain landscapes.
A peaceful hiking route along Küçük Kışlacık Stream offers a leisurely walk amidst nature, where hikers can enjoy the sound of flowing water and the surrounding greenery.
A historical trail leading to Erzurum Fortress, this hike combines culture and history with beautiful panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
Aiports
How to reach Erzurum by plane.
The primary airport serving Erzurum, Turkey, offering domestic and limited international flights.
Located about 200 kilometers from Erzurum, this airport serves the Trabzon region with international and domestic flights.
Approximately 250 kilometers from Erzurum, this airport offers domestic flights and some international services.
Located around 180 kilometers from Erzurum, it primarily serves domestic flights.
About 150 kilometers from Erzurum, focusing mainly on domestic routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Erzurum, comprising a significant portion of the population, primarily speaking Turkish and practicing Islam.
A notable minority in the region, the Kurdish community has its own cultural and linguistic identity, with many members speaking Kurdish.
Historically present in the region, the Armenian population has decreased significantly but still contributes to the area's cultural heritage.
This ethnic group is part of the social fabric of Erzurum, known for their distinct traditions and customs.
Includes various smaller groups such as Arabs and Georgians who may have a presence in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Erzurum is known for its skiing facilities and has hosted various national and international skiing competitions.
Football is widely popular in Erzurum, with several local clubs and a passionate fan base.
Wrestling has traditional significance in Erzurum and is a popular sport in the region.
Basketball has gained popularity in Erzurum, with local clubs competing in leagues and tournaments.
With the increasing interest in winter sports, ice hockey is becoming more popular in Erzurum, supported by local teams and facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Erzurum.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Erzurum cuisine heavily features meat dishes, many restaurants in the city offer delicious vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as stuffed grape leaves, lentil soups, and vegetable stews.
Individuals with gluten restrictions will find that many establishments in Erzurum provide gluten-free choices, including rice-based dishes, salads, and grilled meats.