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Things to Do in Erzurum (2026)
Begin your visit at Erzurum Castle, perched on a hill in the city center. The fortress dates back to Byzantine times and offers panoramic views of the city and the surroundiβ¦ ποΈ Start at the Castle
Begin your visit at Erzurum Castle, perched on a hill in the city center. The fortress dates back to Byzantine times and offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding plains. Entry is free, and it's open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Climb the walls for the best photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
π Marvel at Historic Mosques
The Ulu Mosque, built in 1179, is a masterpiece of Seljuk architecture with its intricate stone carvings and massive dome. Nearby, the Γifte Minareli Medrese, with its iconic twin minarets, is a must-see for history buffs. Both are within walking distance of each other, and entry is free. Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the quiet atmosphere.
π½οΈ Taste Local Delicacies
Erzurum is famous for its caΔ kebabΔ±, a horizontal skewer of lamb that's a local specialty. Head to CaΔ KebabΔ± Salonu on Cumhuriyet Caddesi, where a portion costs around 150 TL. Don't miss the kadayΔ±f dolmasΔ±, a sweet pastry filled with walnuts, at Εen TatlΔ±cΔ±sΔ±. For a full meal, pair your kebab with ayran and a side of piyaz (bean salad).
ποΈ Explore the Museums
The Erzurum Museum on Yakutiye Medresesi Street houses artifacts from the Urartian, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods, including a famous collection of bronze figures. Admission is 20 TL, and it's open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, closed on Mondays. Also visit the AtatΓΌrk House Museum, where the leader stayed during the 1919 congress, for a glimpse into modern Turkish history.
β·οΈ Hit the Slopes at PalandΓΆken
PalandΓΆken Ski Resort, just 5 kilometers from the city center, is one of Turkey's top ski destinations, with runs for all levels. A day ski pass costs around 500 TL, and equipment rental is available on-site. The season runs from December to April, and you can reach the resort by taxi or the free shuttle from the city. Even if you don't ski, the mountain views are spectacular.
π Soak in Hot Springs
The IlΔ±ca Hot Springs, located 15 kilometers east of Erzurum, offer thermal pools with mineral-rich waters believed to ease joint pain. Entry is 100 TL, and the facility is open from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM. For a more rustic experience, try the Kandilli Hot Springs, which are less developed but equally relaxing. Bring your own towel and swimsuit, as rentals are limited.
ποΈ Shop at the Bazaar
The TaΕhan Bazaar, a 16th-century caravanserai, is the perfect place to buy local handicrafts, carpets, and oltu stone jewelry. Vendors are open from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and bargaining is expected. For a taste of daily life, visit the nearby GΓΌmrΓΌkΓΆnΓΌ Market, where farmers sell fresh produce and dairy. Don't leave without trying the local honey, known for its distinct flavor.
π Evening Stroll and Tea
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the Yakutiye Park promenade, where locals gather to socialize. Stop by the historic Erzurum Evleri, restored Ottoman houses now serving as cafes and tea gardens. A glass of Turkish tea costs about 15 TL, and the atmosphere is perfect for people-watching. For a livelier scene, head to the bars and cafes on Cumhuriyet Caddesi, which stay open until midnight.
The guide is solid, especially the castle at sunset. One thing I'd add: if you're here in winter, don't skip the frozen Tortum Waterfall about an hour out of town. It's not in most guides, but the ice formations are unreal and you can walk right up to them. Hire a taxi for the day, it'll run you maybe 800 TL including waiting time.
Also, for caΔ kebabΔ±, skip the tourist spots on Cumhuriyet and try the smaller places in the back streets near the Ulu Mosque. They're mostly locals, the meat is fattier and better, and a portion is closer to 100 TL. Just ask for "yarΔ±m" if you want a half portion to save room for kadayΔ±f dolmasΔ±.
good write up, the twin minarets are the obvious photo spot but the real move is climbing to the top of the castle right before the call to prayer. the whole valley echoes with it, kinda chilling.
also for the bazaar, dont just stick to the main stalls. theres a tiny workshop behind tas han where an old guy makes oltu stone pipes by hand, no sign or anything. he'll let you watch and the smell of the stone grinding is super distinct. brought one home for like 200 tl and it's my favorite souvenir from the whole trip.
honestly the hot springs tip is spot on but i'd say go for kandilli over Δ±lΔ±ca if you're not too picky about facilities. the water's way hotter and the setting's more like a natural pool in the rocks, feels less touristy. i went in february and it was snowing while i soaked, surreal.
also if you're there in summer, check out the yedigΓΆller plateau about an hour south. it's a bunch of little lakes in the mountains, locals picnic there all day. no entrance fee, just a bumpy road up. bring a blanket and some of that honey from the bazaar, it hits different with fresh bread up there.
for the museum, the bronze figures are cool but the real gem is the ottoman-era room recreations upstairs. they've got a whole coffee house setup with mannequins, feels like stepping back in time. and yeah, closed mondays caught me off guard too, plan around it.
Where to Stay in Erzurum (2026)
The heart of Erzurum, around Cumhuriyet Caddesi, is ideal for first-time visitors who want easy access to attractions like the Γifte Minareli Medrese and the Grand Mosque. You'll fiβ¦ ποΈ City Center
The heart of Erzurum, around Cumhuriyet Caddesi, is ideal for first-time visitors who want easy access to attractions like the Γifte Minareli Medrese and the Grand Mosque. You'll find mid-range hotels such as the Grand Erzurum Hotel and the Otel Karadeniz, with rooms typically starting around 1,200 Turkish Lira per night. This area buzzes with shops, tea gardens, and local restaurants, making it a convenient base for exploring on foot.
β·οΈ PalandΓΆken Ski Resort
For winter sports enthusiasts, staying at Palandâken is a must, as it offers direct access to the slopes and ski lifts. The resort features luxury options like the Polat Palandâken Hotel and the Dedeman Palandâken Ski Lodge, with prices ranging from 2,500 to 5,000 Turkish Lira per night during peak season. You'll also find ski-in/ski-out convenience and après-ski facilities, perfect for families and groups seeking a full mountain experience.
π Yakutiye District
Yakutiye, the older part of town, is known for its historic atmosphere and quieter evenings, making it a great choice for couples and history buffs. Boutique guesthouses like the TaΕhan Hotel offer charming rooms with traditional decor, often under 1,000 Turkish Lira per night. The area is close to the Yakutiye Medrese and the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, and you'll find several cozy cafes for a relaxed afternoon.
π³ Family-Friendly Options
Families should consider the neighborhoods near the AtatΓΌrk University campus, which offer more space and a suburban feel. Hotels like the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Erzurum provide family rooms and amenities such as pools and kids' clubs, with rates around 1,800 Turkish Lira per night. These areas are also close to parks and shopping malls, ensuring entertainment for all ages.
π» Digital Nomad Spots
Digital nomads will appreciate the cafes and co-working spaces around the city center, particularly near the Erzurum Congress and Culture Center. For longer stays, consider renting an apartment through platforms like Airbnb, with monthly rates from 8,000 to 12,000 Turkish Lira. The central location provides reliable internet and easy access to public transport, making it a practical base for remote work.
π Getting Around
Erzurum's public bus system connects most neighborhoods, with fares around 10 Turkish Lira per ride. Taxis are also affordable, with a typical city-center ride costing 50 to 100 Turkish Lira. If you're staying at PalandΓΆken, a shuttle service runs regularly to the city center, so you can easily explore both areas.
π° Budget Stays
For budget travelers, hostels and guesthouses near the bus terminal offer the cheapest rates, starting at 400 Turkish Lira per night. The Erzurum Hostel provides dorm beds and private rooms, and it's a short walk from the main bazaar. These options are basic but clean, and they give you a chance to meet other travelers.
solid breakdown honestly, the yakutiye rec is spot on but i'd add that the old stone houses around the lala mustafa pasha mosque get freezing at night, so check if ur guesthouse has real heating not just a space heater. for a different angle: if ur coming for the ski season, skip the overpriced resort restaurants and eat at the little dΓΆner places on the way down to the city, half the price and way better. also the bus to palandΓΆken from the center is fine during the day but after 8pm it gets sketchy, so just budget for the taxi like the other person said. one thing nobody mentions: the erzurum congress center area has a decent wifi cafe called kafe 41 that's open till midnight, lifesaver if ur working late
The guide is pretty accurate on pricing, but I'd add that if you're here outside ski season, PalandΓΆken is a ghost town. Most hotels shut down or run at half staff from May to October, so check if the Dedeman or Polat are even open before booking. For a quieter stay, I actually prefer the guesthouses near the Kale, the fortress area, it's a bit uphill but you get views over the whole city and it's way less touristy than Cumhuriyet. Also, don't skip the local caΔ kebabΔ± at a place like CaΔ Usta, it's a different cut than the usual dΓΆner and worth the walk from wherever you're staying.
stayed at the taΕhan hotel last winter and honestly it's the best pick if u want the old city vibe. rooms are small but the courtyard breakfast with simit and Γ§ay is unreal, plus it's a 5 min walk to the Γ§ifte minareli. one thing the guide missed: the otel karadeniz is right above a busy kebab spot, so ask for a room facing the back or u'll smell grilled meat all night lol. also for getting to palandΓΆken, skip the shuttle and just grab a taxi, it's like 150 lira and way faster than waiting 20 min in the cold.