Erzurum in Northeastern Turkey is full of ruins! 5 recommended tourist spots

Erzurum is a city that represents the Eastern Anatolia region of Turkey. Since it is located on high ground, summers are cool, and winters can drop to as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius. Because it lies along the Silk Road, it has historically been an important transportation hub. As a result, there are many tourist attractions such as castle ruins and madrasahs (Islamic schools).

To the south towers Mount Palandöken, which stands at 3,100 meters above sea level and still has lingering snow even in midsummer, attracting many tourists who come to enjoy the ski resort. Also, Erzurum, surrounded by mountains, is known for its delicious water, and public drinking fountains can be found throughout the city. Here are 5 recommended tourist spots in this charming city of Erzurum.

1. Çifte Minareli Medrese

About a 15-minute walk east from the center of Erzurum is the tourist spot Çifte Minareli Medrese. "Çifte" means "a pair," and "minare" refers to slender, pointed roofs. It’s hard to tell in photos, but the minarets are inlaid with blue tiles that stand out vividly. These twin spires could be considered the symbol of the city of Erzurum. At the entrance, a sculpture of a double-headed eagle is carved, creating a very solemn atmosphere.

There is a courtyard, and around it are many small rooms for theology students. The interior features the arabesque patterns characteristic of Islamic art, so be sure to take your time exploring. At the far end, there is the mausoleum of a sultan's (Islamic monarch's) daughter named Fadime. You can also visit this area by removing your shoes.

2. Erzurum Castle

Erzurum Castle is said to have been built during the ancient Roman era by Emperor Theodosius. Inside the castle, surrounded by walls, are a clock tower, a prayer space, and remnants of cannons. On the east side of the castle, there are stairs that lead you up onto the castle walls. From the walls, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the magnificent Erzurum Plateau.

The clock tower was built as a watchtower, and you can climb it as well. Its exterior is covered in brick, and inside you’ll find Arabic inscriptions and geometric patterns—also highlights for visitors. It’s just a 20-minute walk from Erzurum’s city center, making it conveniently accessible. Given its historical significance, it's definitely worth a visit.

3. Üç Kümbetler

About a 5-minute drive or less than a 20-minute walk from the center of Erzurum, there are three tombs known as Üç Kümbet. This striking tourist spot is located near Çifte Minareli Medrese. Among the three, one is larger than the others—an octagonal tower with a rounded roof, and the walls are patterned using stones of different colors.

This octagonal tower is the tomb of a man named Emir Saltuk, but the identities of the other two remain unknown. Each tomb features an arched recess called a mihrab, along with carvings of snakes, female cows, and eagles. The detailed carvings are worth a close look, so be sure to explore carefully.

4. Yakutiye Madrasa

Located in the western part of Erzurum's old town, Yakutiye Medrese is a theological school founded in 1310 by Master Yakuti. Today, it functions as an ethnographic museum. It also features a minaret (spire), with attractive blue tiles. Inside, in addition to the rooms for theology students, there are displays of traditional crafts and household items from the past. You can also see ceramics and costumes from the Ottoman Turkish period, making it a fascinating place to visit. At the entrance, carvings of lions, eagles, and plants give the site a sacred atmosphere.

You can also learn about the history of Erzurum here, so be sure to stop by. Despite being in the city center of Erzurum, it's relatively less crowded with tourists, allowing for a relaxed visit.

5. Tortum Waterfall

Located about 100 km north of Erzurum, roughly a 1.5-hour drive, is Lake Tortum. There, you'll find one of Erzurum’s best natural tourist attractions. The roaring Tortum Waterfall is the largest waterfall in Turkey, with a drop of 50 meters. Many tourists come to witness this grand sight. The area around Lake Tortum is rich in nature and is home to wildlife such as wolves and grizzly bears.

The best time to visit Tortum Waterfall is from May to June. During that period, the water level of the lake is at its highest, and the volume of water in the waterfall is at its peak, offering a truly powerful and spectacular view.

◎ Summary

Most tourist attractions in Erzurum are concentrated along Cumhuriyet Street, the city’s main thoroughfare. By focusing your visit on this area, you'll likely be able to cover most of the key sights!

In Turkey, kebabs made with sliced lamb skewers and a crepe-like flatbread called "lavash" are famous. If you visit Erzurum, be sure to try some of the region’s signature Turkish cuisine.

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

Erzurum in Northeastern Turkey is full of ruins! 5 recommended tourist spots