Tours and Attractions in Erzurum
Many will agree that first impressions are important. The mountains that surround Erzurum have seen their fair share of impactful events, creating a mysterious presence, like ghosts. And indeed, nestled between the Paladöken Mountains (Palandöken Dağı) in the east of Turkey (Türkiye), this place awaits visitors to tell them stories of the past and present.
The capital of Erzurum Province is located 1945 metres above sea level and is home to more than half a million people. It is situated in the eastern part of the Anatolian region, near the Caucasus countries of Armenia, Georgia, and Iran. Historically, this old city has always had a significant Kurdish population and has been tied to a large Armenian Diaspora.
In the present world, Erzurum enchants visitors with a magical atmosphere that is hard to forget. Yet it should never be overlooked that this town has had an enormous impact on the region. Cobblers, shoemakers, metalworkers, painters, builders, carpenters, and many more traditional and craft professions were continuously nurtured through the trade opportunities of the Silk Road.
In this commercial and cultural exchange network, Erzurum played a crucial role along the Anatolian routes. The mountains provided shelter for the travelling merchants, and the famous Rüstem Pasha Caravanserai, or Taşan (Rüstem Paşa Kervansarayı), let them rest at night in comfort and safety.
Erzurum Tours
Being surrounded by the snowy mountaintops, Erzurum is always busy hosting tourists. Whether it is for being a transfer point for the nearby Palandöken ski resort or staying in the city itself, its mystifying aura tends to attract people.
Winters are quite harsh, with temperatures dropping to 35 degrees Celsius. In that regard, January is the coldest, with constant snowfalls that paint the surrounding valleys white.
The mountains are not the only appealing feature for the tourists. In fact, you can plan your trip to Erzurum any time you prefer. Summers are mild, and local valleys and waterfalls are particularly mesmerising during this season. Whether you love nature, sports, or the arts, Erzurum is worth visiting.
Best Time to Visit Erzurum
The best time to visit Erzurum is winter, when the holiday season is booming at the nearby Palandӧken ski resort. December, January, and February are ideal months to get the most out of it. Consider booking a trip around Christmas and New Year’s Day, as there is a plethora of things to do in Erzurum during the public holidays.
Those who would like to visit the local landmarks but are not keen on seeing snow can visit the city in September to witness the local equestrian Javelin Games and create unforgettable memories.
History of Erzurum
Modern Erzurum is known for its history, culture, and winter sports. The past is reflected in many aspects, and the present modernity of the city is mesmerising.
The settlement was built on the site of the village of Theodosiopolis-Karin, the ancient Byzantine fortress and once a part of the Arshakuni/Arsacid kingdom of Greater Armenia. Modern-day Erzurum’s name comes from Christians who moved to the city, calling it Artsn Rum (Artze of the Rûm, i.e., Romans) after the Seljuks took the reins of the neighbouring city of Artze.
Erzurum was first linked to the Urartians around the 9th century BC. Later, other civilisations, such as the Romans and, eventually, the Byzantines, ruled it. Around this time, the city became a trading hub and a major military base.
The Seljuk Turks came into play in the 11th century. After taking control, they emphasised the importance of this place, and this is exactly when it flourished. Many of the historical sites and landmarks popular with tourists were built during the Seljuk era, such as the Double Minaret Madrasah.
In the 13th century, Erzurum was invaded by the Mongols, resulting in widespread destruction. Yet, two centuries later, conditions began to improve under Ottoman rule. During this time, the city became a significant provincial capital and expanded its culture and architecture.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries were especially critical for Erzurum due to the tumultuous times. Notably, the Erzurum massacre is known as a historical event when a large part of the Armenian community was mass murdered and highly impacted during the Great War, in 1915-1916.
Later, the Erzurum Congress was held from 23 July to 4 August 1919 by the newly emerged nationalist movement. Atatürk, the founding father of the modern Republic of Turkey, resided in Erzurum after being elected chairman of the Erzurum Congress. This Congress was decisive in the conduct of the future War of Independence. In fact, the Turkish War of Independence in 1920 changed the course of the country's history. The newly liberated Turkey began to develop rapidly across all areas.
What to Do in Erzurum
Erzurum tourist activities are endless. From the dreamy mountains that make this city cosy, to the football matches that involve Erzurumspor FK (Erzurumspor Futbol Kulübü), widening your horizon, both literally and figuratively, is going to be the biggest outcome of your Erzurum tour.
Start your journey from the Erzurum Forts (Erzurum Tabyaları). They were originally used as a defensive measure during the 1877-1878 Ottoman-Russian War and have since gained historical significance.
The Twin or Double Minaret Madrasah (Çifte Minareli Medrese) should be the next stop on your list. It is also known as Hatuniye Madrasah and is believed to have been completed in 1265, before the end of Seljuk rule in 1277.
300 metres from the Double Minaret Madrasah, you will find the Three Tombs (Üç Kümbetler), which consist of three individual mausolea and a fourth small square-shaped structure close to them.
If you are particularly interested in the mosques, you can visit the Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii), built in 1179; the Erzurum Bakırcı Mosque (Erzurum Bakırcı Camii), built in 1720; and the Caferiye Mosque (Erzurum Caferiye Camii), with Ottoman architecture and built in 1645.
Erzurum Museums
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s name is particularly significant for residents of this town, since he spent some time here when the nationalist movement was rising in the country. The residence where he stayed has been converted into the Erzurum Atatürk House Museum (Erzurum Atatürk Evi Müzesi) and is now open to tourists.
The next museum is the Erzurum Castle (Erzurum Kalesi), constructed by the Byzantines. It is in the centre of the city and dates to the 5th century.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Erzurum Painting and Sculpture Museum (Erzurum Resim Heykel Müzesi). It was established in 1963 in a building originally constructed in 1864 and has operated in the Erzurum Congress building since 2016. The museum exhibits pieces of various periods of Turkish painting.
Erzurum Archaeology Museum (Erzurum Arkeoloji Müzesi) is another place to visit.
Erzurum Turkish-Islamic Arts and Ethnography Museum (Yakutiye Medresesi Türk İslam Eserleri ve Etnografya Müzesi) is in the building of the Yakutiye Madrasah, a 14th-century educational institution.
Additionally, travellers can visit the Ata Ice Museum and Cafe to view beautiful ice sculptures all year round.
Erzurum Theatres
Erzurum is not richly endowed with theatre groups. Yet there are many municipal cultural centres where a large variety of events take place. Still, there are some noteworthy theatres and performance groups you can learn more about in the local performing arts.
Start from the Erzurum State Theatre (Erzurum Devlet Tiyatrosu). From musicals to children’s plays, there is a wide variety of plays actively being performed on their stage.
The next most significant group of performers is the Rabarba Erzurum Children's Theatre (Tiyatro Rabarba Erzurum Çocuk Tiyatro ve Organizasyon Şirketi). They are a travelling theatrical group that holds workshops, organises events, and has dedicated its time and energy to performing in even the smallest villages to ensure they reach every child.
Entertainment, Parks, and Shopping in Erzurum
Entertainment
Erzurum is best known for its natural beauty and winter activities. One of the most explored ski resorts in the country, Palandöken (Palandöken kayak merkezi) or Ejder 3200, is only a 30-minute drive from the city centre.
There are particularly many wedding halls in Erzurum, so if you are planning to get married or want to renew your vows, consider booking one of them.
Further, visit the local curling facility (Spor Genel Müdürlüğü Curling Salonu) to have a fun time on ice.
Parks of Erzurum
One of the most fascinating places in the city is the Ata Park Botanical Garden (Ata Park Botanik Bahçesi). Here, visitors can see a large variety of local species from different plant families. Due to the high altitude, it is currently the highest Botanical Garden in Turkey.
Tavsanli Park (Tavşanlı Parkı) is especially majestic during the winter months. The snow makes everything look better, and the wooden gazebos create a cosy feel.
If you are looking for a more child-friendly option, the 100th Anniversary Park (100 Yıl Parkı) would be a great choice.
Right next to it is the Aziziye Park (Aziziye Parkı), a famous tourist destination for its central location. It is rather close to hotels, cafes, and even some of the city’s most prominent landmarks.
Shopping in Erzurum
Erzurum has a variety of shops where tourists can easily find handmade items and souvenirs. Finding better deals by bargaining with sellers is a widely accepted custom here.
Other than minor boutiques, Erzurum boasts a wide variety of shopping centres to choose from. Two of the most highly rated places are:
- MNG AVM – the fifth biggest shopping centre in the Eastern Anatolian region and the largest one in Erzurum. It is open every day, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Forum Erzurum – smaller in size, but it has a wide range of shops that offer high-quality items for all tastes.
Lastly, if you want to get a taste of Erzurum’s local produce, do visit the Kars Bakkaliyesi store. This place has shelves and fridges full of nuts, cheese, charcuterie, and many more. The store also has a website (www.karsbakkaliyesi.com) where you can have products delivered to other provinces.
Food in Erzurum
Turkish Cuisine
Erzurum is famous for its Cağ Kebabı and Stuffed Kadayif (Kadayıf Dolması). The former is a kebab made with lamb and spices, served in a flatbread, while the latter is a dessert made with kadayif dough, thinly shredded and wrapped around a nut filling.
Other outstanding dishes from the Turkish cuisine include Et Döner, Şiş Köfte, Büryan Kebabı, Yavalama Çorbası, Erzurum Pide, Tarator, and Aşure.
Vegetarian Restaurants
Restaurants and cafes in Erzurum serve high-quality, fresh meals. Even though there are no strictly vegetarian or vegan establishments, you can find plant-based options at most places in the city.
Coffee Houses, Bakeries, and Patisseries
Coffee and tea are integral to Turkish traditions. As you walk, you will often spot teahouses or people enjoying a delicious cup of sand-brewed coffee. Coffee houses and bakeries are concentrated in the city centre, and you can often find them near the main roads.
Bakeries and pastry shops are full of delicious cakes, croissants, and biscuits, as well as local culinary stars such as Kadayıf Dolması. Tea with sugar and lemon is also very popular in Erzurum.
City Transport in Erzurum
Road infrastructure in Erzurum is well-developed. Two of the main roads in the entirety of the country run through the city:
- D100 – connecting the West to the East; from Kapıkule, at the Bulgarian border checkpoint, to Gürbulak, the Iranian border;
- D950 – connecting the North to the South; from Hope on the Black Sea coast to the Syrian border.
Buses and shuttles
Public buses are comfortable and affordable here. Travellers can catch them at various bus stops throughout the city and even go to the nearby skiing resort of Palandöken.
Taxis
Hailing a taxi is quite easy along the main streets of the city centre. Depending on one’s needs, a suitable company can be found quickly. If you plan to travel long distances, we recommend negotiating the price before you depart.
Car rental
Renting a car in Erzurum is simple, even in the middle of the night. Rental companies like Erzurum DAS auto car rental are open 24/7. Companies typically have their own policies, so please choose the one that suits you. We also advise tourists to read local road safety rules and guidelines to ensure maximum safety.
Other Modes of Transport
The city is relatively small, so walking is the best option to get its true essence while sightseeing. But, if this is not for you, enjoy a bicycle ride by renting one in one of the shops downtown.
How to Get to Erzurum
Erzurum can be accessed by plane, bus, car, or even train. The Erzurum Airport (ERZ) is quite close to the city centre, approximately 14 kilometres away. Companies such as Turkish Airlines, AJet, Pegasus Airlines, and SunExpress operate there. It is most convenient to arrive in one of the big cities (e.g., Istanbul) first and depart towards this province from there.
Moreover, Erzurum has a train station that regularly serves nearby major cities. Eastern Express (Doğu Ekspresi), an overnight passenger train, runs in 7 provincial capitals: Ankara, Kirikkale, Kayseri, Sivas, Erzincan, Erzurum, and Kars.
Additionally, there is a bus terminal that operates daily. Buses arrive from nearby cities, as well as nearby countries like Georgia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and others.
Languages Spoken in Erzurum
Turkish is the official language here. Yet, as a popular holiday destination, English can be heard there quite frequently. Particularly near landmarks, car rental companies, taxis, and hotels in Erzurum.
Our tour guides speak several languages besides Turkish, such as English and Russian; nevertheless, communicating with locals is not difficult with a friendly attitude.
The Erzurum dialect sounds very similar to Azerbaijani, so communication between tourists from Azerbaijan and local residents should not be a problem. Moreover, Erzurum has a large Kurdish diaspora, so you will often hear Kurdish.
Currency in Erzurum
The official currency throughout Turkey is the Turkish lira (TRY). You can exchange money at the airport or in the city. We recommend doing this in advance to be better prepared.
ATMs are concentrated in the city centre and at larger shopping centres. However, small shops may not have up-to-date payment options, so it is advisable to keep some cash on you.
Security in Erzurum
Turkey is generally safe for everyone, and Erzurum is no exception. It is advised to use common sense when travelling abroad and keep your valuables and money in a safe place. To fully enjoy your voyage, it is best to carefully read the road and safety guidelines and obtain information on local laws and customs.
4G service is widely available in Erzurum; thus, staying connected with your loved ones or having the local emergency numbers close at hand is another precaution you can take.
One more useful step is to keep your identification documents with you, so you do not lose them. This will also come in handy when you rent a car or decide to travel to a nearby city for more adventures.