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If you have done the things to do in Turkey, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Erzurum.
Nestled between soaring mountains and steeped in rich history, Erzurum is a wonderland waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re seeking exhilarating outdoor adventure or a glimpse into the past, this charming Turkish city offers a plethora of captivating activities that are sure to leave you spellbound.
So come and immerse yourself in the splendor of Erzurum, where the majesty of nature meets the marvels of culture.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Erzurum:
1. Mount Palandöken
Mount Palandöken is a popular ski resort located in the city of Erzurum in eastern Turkey. It is one of the highest mountains in the region and has a peak altitude of 3,271 meters.
What to see or do: The main attraction of Mount Palandöken is skiing. It offers a wide range of skiing opportunities for both beginners and advanced skiers.
There are several ski resorts located on the mountain, including Palandöken Ski Resort and Konaklı Ski Resort. The resorts offer ski lessons, equipment rentals and various activities, such as snowboarding and tobogganing.
Don’t miss: Visitors should not miss the opportunity to ski down the longest ski run in Turkey, which is located in Mount Palandöken.
The ski run is about 12.5 kilometers long and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Mount Palandöken for skiing is between December and April.
2. Erzurum Castle
Erzurum Castle is a medieval fortification located in the heart of Erzurum, Turkey.
What to see or do: The castle itself is a stunning piece of architecture, with walls that are over 20 meters high and 3 meters thick.
Visitors can explore the castle’s interior to see the remains of various halls, passages, and rooms.
Don’t miss: One of the most impressive features of Erzurum Castle is the view from the top.
Visitors can climb to the highest points on the walls to see panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes as the castle is quite large and requires a lot of walking.
3. Three Tombs
A collection of three historical tombs located within close proximity in the city of Erzurum, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the intricate architectural details of the three tombs, each representing a different period of history and culture. The tombs are named for their respective occupants, who were prominent figures of their time.
The Tomb of Saltuk Baba is dedicated to a famous 13th-century mystic, while the Cifte Minareli Medrese houses the tombs of two Seljuk princes.
The Yakutiye Medrese Tomb is the final resting place of a 14th-century woman from the Mongol Empire.
Don’t miss: The intricate stonework and decorative elements of the tombs are truly remarkable, and are a must-see for anyone interested in history or architecture.
Be sure to also take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and cityscape from the site.
Insider travel tips: The area around the tombs can become crowded with visitors, so plan to arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds.
Dress modestly and be respectful of those who have come to pay their respects at the site.
Additionally, be aware that the tombs are located in a busy part of the city, so be prepared for noise and traffic when traveling to and from the site.
4. Yakutiye Madrasah
The Yakutiye Madrasah is a historic Islamic school located in the center of Erzurum, Turkey. It was built in the 14th century during the rule of the Ilkhanate.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the intricate architectural details on the exterior of the building, including the beautiful turquoise tiles and carvings. Inside, there are several small rooms that were once used as classrooms and living quarters for students and teachers.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the stunning central dome, which is adorned with intricate patterns and designs. The view from the top of the minaret is also worth the climb.
Insider travel tips: – If you plan on visiting other historic sites in Erzurum, consider purchasing a Museum Pass for discounted admission.
5. Çifte Minareli Madrasah
Çifte Minareli Madrasah is a historical Islamic school located in the city of Erzurum in Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the stunning architecture of the madrasah which features intricate brickwork and two towering minarets. Inside, you can see the old classrooms and the central courtyard with a water fountain.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of the minarets for a breathtaking view of Erzurum and the surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: – Visit early in the morning or later in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
6. Erzurum Bazaar
Erzurum Bazaar or Erzurum Bedesten is one of the most authentic and interesting bazaars in Turkey.
What to see or do: Erzurum Bazaar is the place to go if you want to see traditional Turkish handicrafts such as carpets, jewelry, ceramics, and copper works.
Visitors can also find clothing, household items, and souvenirs.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to taste Erzurum’s famous honeycomb and lavender honey sold in the bazaar.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
7. Atatürk House Museum
A museum that was once the home of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founding father and first president of Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the preserved rooms and witness the personal belongings of Atatürk. The museum also exhibits photographs, documents, and items related to Atatürk’s time in Erzurum.
Don’t miss: The room where Atatürk stayed during his visits to Erzurum, which includes his bed, wardrobe, and writing desk.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays.
8. Emir Sultan Mosque
Emir Sultan Mosque is a historic Islamic mosque located in the city of Erzurum, Turkey. It was built during the late 12th century and served as a cultural and religious center during the Ottoman period.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the architectural splendor of the Emir Sultan Mosque and learn about its rich history. The mosque features intricate decorations and designs that showcase the skill and craftsmanship of its builders.
There is also a small museum on site that displays important artifacts from the Ottoman era.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the Emir Sultan Mosque is the original mihrab (prayer niche) that dates back to the 12th century.
It is considered a masterpiece of Seljuk art and is adorned with intricate designs and calligraphy.
Insider travel tips: When visiting the Emir Sultan Mosque, be sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. It is also recommended to visit the mosque during non-prayer times to avoid disrupting worshipers.
9. Aziziye Tabyaları (Aziziye Fortifications)
-Erzurum.jpg "Aziziye Tabyaları (Aziziye Fortifications)")
Historical fortifications and a museum complex in Erzurum, Turkey.
What to see or do: Explore Aziziye Tabyaları, which were built in the late 19th century to protect the city of Erzurum; visit the museum within the fortifications, which houses various artifacts and exhibits related to the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views of Erzurum and the surrounding mountains from the top of the fortifications; the statue of Nene Hatun, a Turkish heroine who played a significant role in the defense of Erzurum during the Russo-Turkish War.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen, as there are many uncovered areas within the fortifications.
Make sure to visit the museum to learn more about the history of the fortifications and the role they played in Erzurum’s defense.
Be prepared for crowds during peak tourist season.
10. Erzurum Archaeological Museum
The Erzurum Archaeological Museum displays a collection of artifacts from Erzurum and the surrounding region, dating from the Paleolithic period to the Ottoman era.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries to admire ancient pottery, coins, metalwork, weaponry, and jewelry. There are also fascinating exhibits dedicated to the history of Erzurum and its role in the Silk Road trade.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the colossal statue of the Roman emperor Trajan, which was discovered in nearby Kemah in the 1800s.
Also, don’t miss the intricate mosaics and murals from the early Christian churches in nearby Kars.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
11. Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque
The Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque is a historic mosque located in the city of Erzurum, Turkey. Named after the Ottoman governor Lala Mustafa Pasha, the mosque is a quintessential example of Ottoman architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautifully decorated interior of the mosque, which features intricate tilework, calligraphy, and colorful stained glass windows. The central dome is particularly impressive, with its intricate geometric patterns and Arabic inscriptions.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the mosque’s exterior, which is equally breathtaking.
The four minarets, each adorned with decorative tiles and intricate carvings, can be seen from miles around, making the mosque a major landmark in the city.
Insider travel tips: – As with any religious site, visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the mosque.
12. Çağlayan Plateau
A beautiful plateau located in the city of Erzurum, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy hiking and trekking in the stunning landscape of Çağlayan Plateau.
The area is also known for its natural springs and waterfalls, providing a refreshing place to swim during the summer months.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views of the surrounding mountains from the plateau are truly breathtaking. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Insider travel tips: It can get quite cool at night in the plateau, so make sure to pack warm clothing if you plan to camp there.
Also, don’t forget to try the delicious local cuisine, which includes lamb dishes and fresh dairy products.
13. Tortum Waterfall
Tortum Waterfall is a natural wonder located near Erzurum in northeastern Turkey.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning view of the waterfall plunging 48 meters into the valley below. Take a walk through the greenery of the surrounding forests and enjoy a picnic by the water’s edge.
Don’t miss: The mist rising from the waterfall creates a beautiful rainbow, so be sure to bring your camera to capture this stunning natural phenomenon.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit would be in the spring or early summer when the waterfall is at its most powerful.
14. Ulu Mosque
Ulu Mosque is a historic mosque located in the city of Erzurum in Turkey. It is considered to be one of the finest examples of Turkish-Islamic architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the mosque’s stunning exterior and interior design.
The mosque features a unique blend of Seljuk and Ottoman architectural styles, with intricate geometric patterns and calligraphy adorning the walls and ceilings.
The interior of the mosque also features beautiful stained glass windows and intricate wooden carvings.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the stunning panoramic view of Erzurum from the courtyard of the mosque. Visitors can also witness the mosque’s impressive dome which stands at a height of 35 meters.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to visit the mosque early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the peaceful and spiritual ambiance of the mosque.
Visitors should also dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the mosque.
15. Gezbe Waterfall
Gezbe Waterfall is a stunning natural wonder located in Erzurum, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors to Gezbe Waterfall can take in the gorgeous views and explore the surrounding forest. There are also walking trails and picnic areas nearby.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take amazing photos of the waterfall and the surrounding scenery.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Gezbe Waterfall is during the spring or summer when the weather is mild.