Erzurum, Turkey: cities, destinations and things to do

The province

Get to know Erzurum

Erzurum sits at almost 1,900 meters on an open plateau in eastern Turkey. It was a crossroads of routes between Anatolia, the Caucasus and Persia, and the center preserves that history in stone.

The Çifte Minareli Medrese, a 13th-century Seljuk school with two minarets above the portal, is the postcard landmark. Beside it are the Üç Kümbetler, conical tombs from the 12th–14th centuries, and further on the Yakutiye Medresesi, from 1310, which houses a museum of Turkish and Islamic arts and ethnography. The citadel and the Clock Tower (Tepsi Minare) look out over the rooftops.

In winter, Palandöken mountain, adjacent to the city, draws skiers to one of the country’s highest resorts, and the Doğu Ekspresi stops in Erzurum on the route between Ankara and Kars. Snow season usually runs from December to April.

To the north, in the Uzundere district, the Tortum waterfall drops about 48 meters, and the Çoruh river near İspir is known for rafting. On the plate, cağ kebabı, lamb roasted on a horizontal spit and served on skewers, is the city’s signature dish; at Taşhan, the old caravanserai, Oltu jet (Oltu taşı) is made into rosaries and jewelry.

When to go

For skiing, December to April, when there is usually snow on Palandöken. For the city and Tortum, June to September, with mild days; the waterfall tends to have more water in late spring and early summer. Winter in the city is very cold.

Getting there

Erzurum Airport (ERZ) is about 10 km from the center and has frequent domestic flights. The city has a Doğu Ekspresi station and buses to all parts of the east. Tortum is about two hours’ drive to the north on the road to Artvin.

Your questions

Frequently asked questions about Erzurum

How long does it take to see Erzurum’s historic center?

One day allows you to see the Çifte Minareli Medrese, the Üç Kümbetler, the Yakutiye Medresesi and the citadel, all on foot. Add half a day for the bazaar and Taşhan, where Oltu jet pieces are sold.

Is Palandöken suitable for beginner skiers?

Yes. The resort has runs of various levels and ski schools, and is only a few kilometers from the center. Hotels at the foot of the slopes and in town rent equipment; book in advance during Turkish school holidays.

How do you get to the Tortum waterfall?

It is in the Uzundere district, north of Erzurum, on the road to Artvin. The most practical way is by car or tour; there are viewpoints and walkways beside the falls.

How many days should you allow for Erzurum?

Two days for the city and Tortum. In winter, those who come to ski usually stay three to five days.

What is cağ kebabı?

It is marinated lamb stacked on a horizontal spit and roasted over embers. The cook slices the meat and serves it on iron skewers, with thin bread. It is the typical dish of Erzurum and Tortum.

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