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How to Get to Erzurum

How to Get to Erzurum

Erzurum Turkey Travel Guide

Air Travel

Erzurum Airport ERZ

Erzurum Airport (ERZ) serves as the main airport for the urban area and its surrounding region. It connects Erzurum to major Turkish cities, facilitating both domestic and international travel via connections.

Airlines & Routes

  • The National flag carrier airline of turkey, AnadoluJet, Pegasus Airlines.
  • Domestic ways to Istanbul (IST, SAW) and Ankara (ESB).
  • International travelers connect through Istanbul or Ankara.

Airport Transfers

Transfer options from Erzurum Airport to the town or your lodging options are straightforward. The Havaş Airport Shuttle runs between Erzurum Airport plus the metropolis center.

Options & Cost

  • Havaş Airport Transfer service: Schedule aligns with flights.
  • Taxis: Readily available, TRY 300-500 to the downtown area.
  • Car Rentals: Desks at the airport.

Seasonal Availability

Flights become more frequent and potentially more expensive during peak winter (ski season) and summer (domestic tourism) months.

Price Fluctuations

Reduced frequency and potentially lower prices are common in shoulder seasons. Book securing flights early for better rates.

Airport Facilities

Facilities include cafes, car rental agencies, a few shops, and ATMs. International services are limited, as it is mainly a domestic hub.

Flight Resources

Finding Deals

  • Dollar Flight Club for flight deals.
  • Skyscanner for comparison.
  • Book flights with connections in advance.
  • Consider flexible schedules for lower prices.

Claiming Compensation

  • If flights are delayed/canceled: AirHelp.
  • Claim up to €600 for eligible disruptions.
  • AirHelp has 45-day cookie, 15-16.6% commission.
  • Be aware of your passenger rights.

Airport Transfer Tip

Havaş Shuttle

Check the Havaş shuttle schedule online before your arrival. This helps you plan your transfer efficiently.

Taxis

Fixed or metered fares available from outside the terminal. Confirm prices beforehand.

Car Rental

Major and local companies have desks at the airport if you possess a a liking for drive yourself. Book in advance.

Land Transportation

Train Travel

Erzurum Garı (Erzurum Train Station) functions as a key station in Eastern Turkey. High-bullet train (YHT) does not currently reach Erzurum. However, conventional trains maintain reliable service.

East Express & Ticketing

  • The East Express (Doğu Ekspresi) connects Ankara to Kars, with a stop in Erzurum.
  • The Express offers regular and sleeper carriages, a popular scenic choice.
  • Purchase tickets via Turkish State Railways (TCDD Tasimacilik) website or stations.

Long-Distance Bus Travel

Erzurum Otogarı (Erzurum Intercity Bus Terminal) functions as a major hub in Eastern Turkey. An extensive network connects Erzurum to almost all major cities in The republic of turkey, including Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Trabzon, and Van.

Bus Companies & Amenities

  • Major companies: Metro Turizm, Kamil Koç, Ulusoy, Lüks Karadeniz.
  • Modern buses often offer Wi-Fi, seat-back entertainment, snacks.
  • Tickets: Bus terminal, company offices, or online.

Self-Driving & Car Rentals

Non-Turkish citizens require a valid national driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). The minimum age for rental typically varies from 21-25, varying by company. A credit card for a deposit is also a necessity.

Driving Information

  • Major international companies (Hertz, Avis) and local ones (DiscoverCars.com for comparisons).
  • Driving in winter requires winter tires, Snow chains may be needed (Nov-Apr).
  • GPS navigation (Google Maps, Yandex Maps) is highly reliable.

Road Conditions & Safety

Roads are generally safe, but adherence to speed limits and cautious driving are recommended. Turkish drivers can act aggressively, so defensive driving is advisable.

Driving Tips

  • Be aware of livestock, like sheep and cattle, on rural roads.
  • Night driving may be tough due to poor lighting and unforeseen obstacles.
  • Main roads and highways around Erzurum are generally well-maintained.

Important Border Information

  • Erzurum Province borders Georgia to the northeast.
  • No direct international overland border crossings immediately adjacent to Erzurum city.
  • Nearest major crossing to Georgia (Posof/Türkgözü) is several hours away.
  • Sea/River Arrivals: Not applicable. Erzurum is a city not on the coast without major navigable waterways.
  • There are no exit fees for tourists departing Turkey.
  • The charge for your visa (when suitable) applies to all entering and leaving fees.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures & Timing

Plan your arrival time before you leave based on your mode of transport. For flying from Erzurum Airport (ERZ), plan to arrive at least 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights. This allows sufficient time for check-in and security screening.

Recommended Arrival Times

  • Air Travel (ERZ): 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights.
  • Bus Travel (Otogarı): 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • Train Travel (Garı): 30 minutes before departure.

Airport & Station Facilities

Erzurum Airport offers basic amenities like waiting areas, cafes, and restrooms. Duty-vat-free shopping is generally limited or non-existent for domestic flights.

Terminal Services

  • Erzurum Airport: Cafes, restrooms, waiting areas.
  • Duty-free: Limited for domestic flights.
  • Bus Terminal: More extensive, including restaurants and boutiques.

No Exit Fees

The cost of your visa includes all entering and leaving fees; no extra departure taxes.

Confirm Schedules

Reconfirm your flight, bus, or train schedule 24-48 hours prior to leaving. This keeps you informed of any changes.

Parking at Stations

Both the airport and bus terminal have parking facilities available for short-term and long-extended visits.

Land Travel Tips

East Express Booking

The East Express offers an unique journey. Booking several weeks in advance is highly recommended, notably for sleeper cars.

Booking Essentials

  • Book weeks ahead, especially for sleeper cars.
  • Tickets sell out quickly due to high demand.
  • Purchase online via TCDD Tasimacilik website.

Winter Car Rental Advice

If hiring a vehicle in winter, be certain it has winter tires. Snow chains may also prove useful for mountain roads or severe conditions.

Winter Driving Checklist

  • Confirm winter tires are equipped.
  • Consider snow chains for mountain routes.
  • Drive cautiously on icy or snowy roads.

Bus Terminal Amenities

Waiting Areas

Comfortable spaces for passengers awaiting departures or arrivals.

Food & Drink

Cafes and restaurants available for meals and snacks.

Other Services

Shops, restrooms, and prayer rooms.

Driving Advisory

Adherence to speed limits and cautious driving are recommended. Turkish drivers can act aggressively, so defensive driving is advisable.