Erzurum is a city located in the eastern part of Turkiye (Turkey), and is the largest city in the Eastern Anatolia region. It is the capital of the Erzurum Province, and is situated at an altitude of over 1,900 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest cities in Turkey.
The city has a rich history and is known for its cultural heritage and architectural landmarks. One of the most famous landmarks is the Erzurum Castle, a massive fortress dating back to the Byzantine era. Other notable sites include the Yakutiye Medrese, a 14th-century Islamic school with beautiful decorative tilework, and the Cifte Minareli Medrese, an impressive 13th-century madrasa with two towering minarets.
Erzurum is also known for its winter sports facilities, including the Palandöken Ski Resort, which offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Turkey. The resort is situated on the slopes of Mount Palandöken, which has an elevation of over 3,000 meters, and features a range of ski runs and trails for all skill levels.
The city is also a great destination for foodies, with a range of delicious local specialties to try, including the famous Erzurum kesme çorbası (a hearty soup made with lamb and noodles), and the sweet pastry called “cağ kebabı.”
This city is also an important center of education and research, with several universities and research centers located in the city. The Atatürk University, founded in 1957, is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in the country.
Overall, this city a great destination for those looking to explore the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Eastern Anatolia region. The city can be reached by road, rail, or air, and offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests.
There are several ways to reach Erzurum, depending on your starting point and preferred mode of transportation.
By Plane: The Erzurum Airport is the main airport in the city, serving both domestic and international flights. You can fly to Erzurum from Istanbul, Ankara, and other major cities in Turkey, as well as from some cities in Europe and the Middle East.
By Bus: Erzurum has a bus station that serves buses from major cities in Turkey, including Istanbul, Ankara, and Trabzon. There are several bus companies that operate daily services to it.
By Car: You can reach Erzurum by car from major cities in Turkey. The journey from Istanbul takes about 16-17 hours, while the journey from Ankara takes about 8-9 hours.
By Train: There is a direct train service from Ankara to Erzurum, operated by the Turkish State Railways. The journey takes about 17-18 hours.
Overall, the most convenient and common ways to reach it are by plane, bus, or train.
Photo by : Bjørn Christian Tørrissen