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Erzincan

Erzincan, Erzincan, Turkey

Discover the Untamed Beauty of Erzincan, Turkey Nestled amidst the rugged peaks of Eastern Anatolia, Erzincan awaits those seeking adventure off the beaten path. This ancient city, steeped in history and surrounded by br…

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Erzincan.

Top Hotels in Erzincan

Top Flights to Erzincan

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Erzincan.

Tours

Explore Erzincan's Scenic Waterfalls

Witness the stunning beauty of Girlevik Waterfalls, one of Erzincan's natural treasures.

Visit Erzincan Museum

Discover the history and heritage of Erzincan through fascinating exhibits and artifacts.

Shopping

Erzincan Shopping Tour

Shop for local crafts, souvenirs, and more in Erzincan's bustling markets and stores.

Outdoor

Ergan Mountain Ski Resort

Experience thrilling ski adventures at Erzincan's popular ski resort, offering trails for all levels.

Keban Dam Adventure

Take part in exciting outdoor activities around Keban Dam, a major attraction near Erzincan.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Erzincan.

Currency

₺ | TRY | Turkish Lira

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Erzincan, Erzincan, Turkey is around 158,000.

Languages

Turkish, Turkish

Average weather

Erzincan

Jan

2°-6°

Feb

5°-4°

Mar

10°0°

Apr

16°4°

May

21°8°

Jun

26°12°

Jul

30°15°

Aug

30°15°

Sep

25°10°

Oct

18°5°

Nov

11°0°

Dec

4°-3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Erzincan.

What people love

Erzincan, located in the eastern part of Turkey, offers a unique travel experience with its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural significance. Here are some pros of traveling to Erzincan:

Historical Sites: Erzincan has a long history dating back to ancient times, and visitors can explore historical sites such as the Erzincan Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding area. The city also has several mosques, churches, and museums that showcase its cultural heritage.
Natural Beauty: Erzincan is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and forests. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, skiing, and rafting in the region. The Euphrates River, one of the longest rivers in Western Asia, flows through Erzincan, offering picturesque views and opportunities for water activities.
Local Cuisine: Travelers to Erzincan can indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine, including local specialties such as kebabs, baklava, and traditional Turkish breakfast. The city's markets are filled with fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts, providing a glimpse into the local culinary and artisanal culture.
Hospitality: The people of Erzincan are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards visitors. Travelers can experience the local culture firsthand by interacting with residents, attending cultural events, and participating in traditional celebrations.
Off the Beaten Path: Erzincan is less touristy compared to other popular destinations in Turkey, making it a great choice for travelers seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, explore hidden gems, and enjoy a more relaxed and authentic travel experience.

Overall, traveling to Erzincan offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences that are sure to captivate and inspire travelers looking for an immersive and enriching travel experience in Turkey.

Enjoy your trip to Erzincan!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Erzincan, Turkey may include:

Limited Tourist Infrastructure: Erzincan is not as popular of a tourist destination compared to other cities in Turkey, so the tourist infrastructure such as hotels, restaurants, and transportation options may be more limited.
Language Barrier: While some locals may speak English, the primary language spoken in Erzincan is Turkish. This language barrier could make communication and navigating the city more challenging for non-Turkish speakers.
Remote Location: Erzincan is located in eastern Turkey, which may make it more difficult and time-consuming to travel to compared to more centrally located cities like Istanbul or Ankara.
Limited Tourist Attractions: While Erzincan does have some historical sites and natural attractions such as the Erzincan Castle and Munzur Valley National Park, the city may not offer as many tourist attractions compared to other destinations in Turkey.
Weather Extremes: Erzincan experiences hot summers and cold winters, with temperatures dropping significantly during the winter months. Travelers should be prepared for the weather conditions depending on the time of year they visit.

Overall, while Erzincan may offer a more off-the-beaten-path travel experience, potential visitors should be aware of these factors when considering a trip to the city.

Erzincan is a city located in eastern Turkey and serves as the capital of Erzincan Province. It has a rich history that dates back to ancient times and has been influenced by various civilizations and empires over the centuries.

Ancient and Medieval History

Early History: Erzincan, historically known as Acilisene, was part of the Kingdom of Urartu in the 9th century BC. It subsequently came under the control of the Medes, Persians, and then the Kingdom of Armenia.
Roman and Byzantine Periods: The city became part of the Roman Empire and later the Byzantine Empire. During this time, it was an important center for trade and commerce due to its strategic location.
Arab and Seljuk Rule: In the 7th century, the region fell to the Arab Caliphate. Later, in the 11th century, it came under the control of the Seljuk Turks following the Battle of Manzikert in 1071.
Mongol Invasion and Turkmen Rule: In the 13th century, Erzincan was devastated by the Mongol invasions. After the decline of Mongol power, it became part of the Turkmen principalities.

Ottoman Empire

Ottoman Era: Erzincan was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in the early 16th century. It became a significant administrative center within the empire. During this period, the city was known for its agricultural products and craftsmanship.

20th Century and Modern Era

Early 20th Century: Erzincan was affected by the Armenian Genocide during World War I. The city also witnessed the Turkish War of Independence following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire.
Earthquake of 1939: One of the most significant events in Erzincan's recent history is the devastating earthquake of December 27, 1939. The earthquake had a magnitude of 7.8 and resulted in the destruction of the city, with significant loss of life and property. It necessitated the rebuilding of Erzincan.
Modern Developments: Post-1939, Erzincan was rebuilt with modern infrastructure. It has grown into a vibrant city with a mix of modern and traditional Turkish culture.

Significant Landmarks

Erzincan Museum: The museum showcases artifacts from various periods of the city’s history, including the Urartian and Byzantine eras.
Terzibaba Mosque: An important religious site in Erzincan, known for its architectural beauty.
Kemaliye (Eğin): A picturesque district in Erzincan Province, known for its natural beauty and traditional Ottoman houses.
Girlevik Waterfalls: Located near Erzincan, these waterfalls are a popular natural attraction for both locals and tourists.

Notable Figures

Kemal Sunal: Although not born in Erzincan, the famous Turkish actor visited and performed in the city, contributing to its cultural scene.

Erzincan today is known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and as a center for trade and agriculture in the region. The city continues to be a significant cultural and economic hub in eastern Turkey.