Erzurum - Discovering Turkey

Travelling to Erzurum

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Erzurum, a pretty good destination in Turkey (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Erzurum and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Erzurum, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Turkey, here's everything to know about Erzurum for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Erzurum

Erzurum is a city located in eastern Turkey, one of the largest cities in the region with a population of over 750,000 people. It is located at an altitude of 1,950 meters above sea level and is known for its harsh winters with temperatures dropping below -30°C. The city has a rich history, with evidence of settlement dating back to 4000 BC. It has been an important center of commerce, culture, and religion for centuries, with influences from the Ottoman, Byzantine, and Persian empires. Some of the popular attractions in Erzurum include the famous ski resorts, the Çifte Minareli Medrese, and the historic Yakutiye Medrese.

What to visit in Erzurum

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Erzurum, Turkey: 1. Erzurum Castle: This medieval castle was built in the 5th century AD during the Byzantine period. It played an important role as a frontier fortress of the Seljuk and Ottoman empires.
2. Yakutiye Medresesi: This 14th-century Islamic school is a masterpiece of Seljuk architecture and features beautiful decorations, arabesque motifs, and stone carvings.
3. Çifte Minareli Medrese: The Double Minaret Madrasa is a 13th-century Islamic school that has two towering minarets and is one of the most iconic landmarks of Erzurum.
4. Three Tombs: The Three Tombs are located in a park in the city center and are thought to belong to three influential figures from the 13th century: Gevher Nesibe, Melike Hatun, and Şifaiye.
5. Atatürk Evi Museum: This is the former residence of the founder of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who stayed here during his visits to Erzurum between 1919 and 1923.
6. Palandöken Ski Resort: This ski resort is located on a mountain range overlooking Erzurum and offers winter sports activities, such as skiing and snowboarding.
7. Tortum Waterfall: This waterfall is located about 100 km from Erzurum and is one of the largest in Turkey, measuring 48 meters in height.
8. Erzurum Archaeological Museum: This museum houses artifacts from the prehistoric, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, including pottery, statues, coins, and jewelry.
9. Aziziye Tabyaları: These historic fortifications are located on a hill overlooking the city and played a key role in the Russian-Turkish War.
10. Ulu Mosque: This mosque is one of the oldest and most beautiful in Erzurum and is known for its intricate stone carvings and decorations.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Turkey, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Erzurum.

When to go on holiday to Erzurum

The best time to go on holiday to Erzurum, Turkey is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. The winter months, from December to March, can be extremely cold with temperatures dropping below freezing point, making it an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts. However, it is worth noting that snowfall can be quite heavy during this time, which can affect travel plans and sightseeing. Therefore, it all depends on your personal preferences and the type of activities you want to engage in during your holidays in Erzurum.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Erzurum

There are a few options for getting to Erzurum, Turkey: 1. By air: You can take a flight to Erzurum Airport from Istanbul or Ankara. Some airlines that operate flights to Erzurum include Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and AnadoluJet.
2. By bus: There are bus services that operate from major cities in Turkey to Erzurum. You can check websites like Metro Turizm, Ulusoy, and Kamil Koc for schedules and prices.
3. By train: There is a train service operated by Turkish State Railways that goes from Ankara to Erzurum. The train journey takes around 16 hours and is a scenic way to travel.
4. By car: You can rent a car and drive to Erzurum. The most common route is from Ankara, which takes around 10 hours. The roads are generally good, but it's important to note that winter weather conditions can make driving more difficult. I recommend checking the schedules and prices for each option, and choosing the one that best suits your preferences and budget.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Erzurum, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Erzurum

Sure, here are some typical foods of Erzurum in Turkey: 1. Cağ Kebabı: This is a type of kebab that is made from lamb meat, which is marinated overnight and then cooked on a horizontal spit over open flame to give it a slightly crispy and smoky flavor.
2. Ayran: Ayran is a traditional Turkish yogurt drink that is commonly consumed alongside kebabs. It's a mixture of plain yogurt, water, and salt that is beaten to a froth and served chilled.
3. Ketche: Ketche is a type of pastry that is made by placing a filling of minced meat, onions, and spices between two layers of thin, doughy sheets. The layers are then rolled up and cooked on a griddle until golden.
4. Borani: This is a type of appetizer that consists of braised spinach topped with a mixture of onions, garlic, and yogurt. It's often served as a side dish or as a dip for bread.
5. Hoşmerim: This is a type of dessert that is made from crushed strands of cheese mixed with sugar and flour. The mixture is cooked until it turns into a sweet and sticky pudding-like consistency and is often flavored with rose water or cinnamon.
6. Kadayıf: Kadayıf is a dessert made from thin, shredded layers of pastry that are layered with melted butter and chopped nuts, such as pistachios or walnuts. It's usually served with a sweet syrup drizzled over the top.
7. Pilav: This is a type of rice dish that is often served as a side dish or as a main course. It's usually flavored with spices such as cinnamon, cumin, and saffron, and is often served with shredded chicken or lamb meat on top.
You can find general info about typical foods in Turkey here.

Is Erzurum an expensive destination for tourists?

Erzurum can be considered as relatively affordable compared to other popular tourist destinations in Turkey. However, it depends on what kind of activities you are planning to do, accommodation preferences, and overall travel style. The city has a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly to luxury options. Additionally, local restaurants and street food options are relatively inexpensive, while cultural attractions and outdoor activities like skiing or hiking can be a bit more costly. Overall, Erzurum can be considered moderately priced compared to other popular tourist destinations in Turkey.

Where to find accomodation in Erzurum

The best areas to find accommodation in Erzurum to visit the city's main attractions are around Cumhuriyet Square, Yakutiye district, and Palandöken district. Cumhuriyet Square is located in the city center and is close to many historical sites like the Erzurum Castle and Double Minaret Madrasa. Yakutiye district is known for its traditional Ottoman architecture and the beautiful Yakutiye Medrese. Palandöken district is a great place to stay if you want to enjoy winter sports, as it's located near the Palandöken Ski Resort.
You can check hotel prices at Erzurum here:
Booking.com

Is Erzurum a safe destination for tourists?

Erzurum is considered a safe place for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially when in crowded areas or tourist attractions. It's always recommended to take necessary precautions like keeping valuable belongings safe, being aware of potential scams or pickpocketing, and sticking to well-lit and populated areas at night. It's also beneficial to research and follow local customs and laws to show respect for the culture and avoid any unwanted attention.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Turkey here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Erzurum.

What type of travelers will enjoy Erzurum the most?

Erzurum, Turkey is a destination that can be enjoyed by a wide range of travelers, from solo travelers to couples, families, and groups of friends. Here are some reasons why: 1. Culture and history: Erzurum is a city rich in history, with many ancient monuments and landmarks. History buffs will enjoy visiting the Seljuk-era Çifte Minareli Medrese, the Ulu Mosque, and the Erzurum Castle.
2. Nature and outdoor activities: Erzurum is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains and lakes. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and fishing.
3. Local cuisine: Erzurum is known for its delicious local cuisine, including traditional dishes such as keskek, a meat and wheat dish, and Cağ Kebabı, a type of kebab made with lamb.
Overall, Erzurum is a great option for travelers who are interested in culture, history, nature, and local cuisine. It can be enjoyed by couples, families, and young people looking for fun, as there are many activities and attractions to suit different interests.

How to get around Erzurum

In Erzurum, you can use various transportation options to move around such as buses, taxis, dolmuş (shared taxis), and rental cars. There is also a tram system called Erzurum Nostalgia Tram that runs on a 7 km line with 12 stations in the city center. However, it is mainly used for tourism purposes rather than daily transportation needs.

What to see around Erzurum

Here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Erzurum: 1. Tortum Waterfall: A stunning waterfall located about 90 km from Erzurum, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.
2. Çoruh River: A popular destination for rafting, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. The river is located about 70 km from Erzurum and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
3. Uzundere: A quaint and charming village located about 30 km from Erzurum, known for its traditional architecture and beautiful scenery.
4. Palandöken Ski Resort: A popular ski destination located just 15 km from Erzurum, offering a variety of slopes for skiers of all skill levels.
5. The Çifte Minareli Medrese: A historic Islamic school known for its unique architecture and intricate decorations. The medrese is located in the heart of Erzurum and is easily accessible from anywhere in the city. I hope these suggestions help!
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