Erzurum Travel Guide (Eastern Anatolia/Turkey/Middle East/Asia)

Introduction to Erzurum

Erzurum is a historic city located in Eastern Anatolia, in Turkey. It has a rich cultural heritage that spans thousands of years, with numerous historical landmarks and landmarks that attest to its importance as a center of trade, culture, and religion. The city is also known for its stunning natural scenery, with rugged mountains, scenic lakes, and lush forests providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventure. In this travel guide, we’ll introduce you to the best attractions, activities, food, and culture of Erzurum, to help you plan an unforgettable trip to this beautiful part of Turkey.

List of Places to Visit in Erzurum

Here are some of the must-visit places in Erzurum:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Erzurum Castle - This castle dates back to the Byzantine era and has played a significant role in the city’s defense throughout history.
Ataturk House Museum - This museum exhibits the personal belongings of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of the Turkish Republic.
Twin Minaret Madrasa - This historical building showcases the ancient Islamic architectural style of the Seljuk dynasty.

Natural Attractions of Erzurum: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Palandoken Ski Resort - This popular ski resort is one of the best places to ski in Turkey.
Narman Fairy Chimneys - These unique rock formations were created by volcanic eruptions and erosion.
Tortum Waterfall - This stunning waterfall is located in a national park in the nearby city of Tortum.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Erzurum

Erzurum is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and biking. There are several hiking and biking routes in and around the city, including:

The Cat Road - This scenic route offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Çoruh River - This river is an ideal spot for kayaking and rafting.
Erzurum City Walls - These walls provide a scenic backdrop for a leisurely stroll or bike ride around the city.

Best Things to Do in Erzurum: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Erzurum:

Take a guided tour of the city’s historical landmarks and museums.
Explore the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and valleys with a hiking or biking tour.
Go skiing or snowboarding at Palandoken Ski Resort.
Sample traditional Turkish cuisine at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the city.

Week-Long Itinerary for Erzurum

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Erzurum:

Day 1: Arrive in Erzurum and check into your hotel. Spend the day exploring the city’s historical landmarks and museums.

Day 2: Take a hiking or biking tour of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Day 3: Go skiing or snowboarding at Palandoken Ski Resort.

Day 4: Visit some of the lesser-known historical landmarks and museums in the city.

Day 5: Take a scenic drive along the Cat Road and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Day 6: Spend the day relaxing at one of the city’s parks or gardens.

Day 7: Visit a local market or bazaar and shop for souvenirs to take home.

Food and Drink Scene of Erzurum

Erzurum is known for its delicious cuisine, which draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Cağ Kebabı - This specialty dish is made with marinated lamb skewered and roasted over an open flame.
Ayran Aşı - This hearty soup is made with yogurt, flour, and chickpeas, and is typically served with bread.
Hangel - This savory meatball dish is served with a tomato-based sauce, rice, and roasted peppers.

Local Beverages

Salep - This hot drink is made with orchid bulbs and has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.
Boza - This fermented drink is made with millet or wheat and has a tangy, slightly sour flavor.

Where to Stay in Erzurum: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Erzurum has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city:

Hilton Garden Inn Erzurum - This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Kervansaray Historical Hotel - This hotel is housed in a restored 17th-century building and offers a unique, historic experience for guests.
Lale Pansiyon - This guesthouse is located in the city’s historic center and is an affordable option for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Erzurum: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Erzurum has a rich craft tradition, with many skilled artisans producing unique and beautiful items that make perfect souvenirs. Here are some of the best products to bring home from Erzurum:

Handwoven carpets and rugs
Traditional Ottoman-style ceramics and pottery
Local honey and other organic food products

Local Culture and Customs of Erzurum

Erzurum is a predominantly Muslim city, and visitors are advised to respect local customs and traditions. Here are some cultural and customs-related tips for visitors to Erzurum:

Dress modestly when visiting mosques and other religious sites.
Avoid eating or drinking in public during Ramadan, the month of fasting for Muslims.
Remove your shoes before entering a mosque.

Best Time to Visit Erzurum

The best time to visit Erzurum is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, winter is also a popular time to visit, as the city’s ski resort is in full swing, and visitors can enjoy winter sports and activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Erzurum

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Erzurum:

Do:

Dress modestly when visiting mosques and other religious sites.
Sample the local cuisine and beverages.
Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

Consume alcohol in public.
Use offensive language or gestures.
Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Erzurum is a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates and a friendly, welcoming local population. However, visitors should take standard safety precautions, such as avoiding dark alleyways and not carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items. As for health concerns, visitors are advised to get their vaccinations up to date and take standard precautions, such as using sunscreen and mosquito repellent.

Getting to Erzurum: Transportation Options and Logistics

Erzurum is easily accessible by plane, bus, and car. Here are some transportation options for getting to and around the city:

Airports Near Erzurum

Erzurum Airport - This airport is located approximately 12 kilometers from the city center and is served by several domestic airlines.

Bus Stations Near Erzurum

Erzurum Bus Terminal - This large bus terminal is located in the city center and is served by several bus companies.

Other Options

Car rental - Visitors can rent a car at the airport or in the city center to explore the surrounding area at their leisure.

How to Get Around in Erzurum

Erzurum is a relatively small city and is easily walkable, with many of its major attractions located within walking distance of one another. Visitors can also take public transport, such as buses and taxis, to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Erzurum: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Erzurum is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region of Eastern Anatolia, with many fascinating destinations located within a few hours’ drive of the city. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

Ani - This ancient city is located near the Turkish-Armenian border and is famous for its well-preserved medieval ruins.
Kars - This picturesque city is located in the nearby province of the same name and is famous for its traditional Ottoman-style architecture and cuisine.
Lake Van - This stunning lake is located approximately three hours’ drive from Erzurum and is known for its turquoise blue water and picturesque islands.

Conclusion

Erzurum is a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a food lover, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of Turkey. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll have all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Erzurum.

Erzurum Image Gallery

Seljuk-built Twin Minarets Madrasah—the iconic building of the city—in the morning