Erzurum

A major historical city on the eastern Anatolian plateau, famous for its Seljuk and Ottoman monuments including the stunning Çifte Minareli Medrese and a lively city life. It's an essential cultural and commercial hub with excellent museums and traditional bazaars.

Things to do

• Çifte Minareli Medrese — Explore this stunning 13th-century Seljuk theological school crowned by twin minarets, featuring intricate stone carvings and a peaceful courtyard.
• Erzurum Castle — Walk the ramparts of this restored medieval fortress overlooking the city, offering panoramic views of the Anatolian plateau.
• Archaeology Museum — View ancient artifacts from the region including Urartian bronzes, Hittite pottery, and Ottoman-era manuscripts documenting Erzurum's layered history.
• Ulu Cami (Great Mosque) — Visit one of Anatolia's oldest mosques, built in 1179, featuring wooden columns and traditional Islamic calligraphy throughout its interior.
• Rize Bazaar — Wander through the atmospheric covered market to purchase local spices, textiles, copper goods, and traditional crafts from local vendors.
• Yakutiye Medrese — Tour this 14th-century Ottoman-era theological school with its distinctive tilework and geometric designs, now functioning as a museum.

Food to try

• Cag Kebab — Tender vertical spit-roasted lamb wrapped in flatbread with tomatoes, onions, and yogurt—a signature Erzurum street food and local specialty.
• Manti — Small dough pockets filled with spiced meat and topped with garlicky yogurt and paprika-infused butter, a traditional comfort dish throughout the region.
• Tulum Peyniri — Aged sheep's milk cheese wrapped in leather, offering a rich, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with fresh bread and local tea.
• Paste — A hearty pastry filled with meat, chickpeas, and spices, baked until golden and often served at family gatherings and celebrations.
• Horoz Döner — Rooster meat döner kebab unique to Erzurum, featuring a gamier, richer flavor than traditional lamb preparations.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress modestly in religious sites — When visiting mosques and medrese courtyards, wear long sleeves and pants or long skirts, and remove shoes before entering prayer areas.
• Turkish tea culture is essential — Accept offered çay (tea) in small glasses as a gesture of hospitality and connection; refusing may be considered impolite.
• Bargaining is expected in the bazaar — Engage in friendly haggling over prices at the Rize Bazaar and with street vendors, as it's an integral part of local shopping tradition and social interaction.
• Winter travel requires preparation — Erzurum experiences harsh winters with significant snowfall and sub-zero temperatures, so plan visits primarily for spring through autumn months.