Bayburt is a small, authentic province in northeastern Turkey nestled in the Çoruh River valley, framed by the Eastern Pontic Mountains. Known for its imposing medieval castle, pristine highland plateaus (yaylas), wild river gorges, and some of Turkey's finest honey, Bayburt offers an unhurried window into traditional Anatolian life far from the tourist mainstream.
Bayburt has no airport or train station. Access is by road only. Dolmuş (shared minibuses) connect the city to Erzurum (95 km, ~1 hr 20 min) and Trabzon (160 km, ~2 hr 30 min). Within the city, walking covers the compact centre; taxis handle excursions to surrounding sites.
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Carry cash for dolmuş fares — card machines are not standard on shared minibuses
The Bayburt–Trabzon road (D915) crosses the Zigana Pass and can be icy October–April
If renting a car, a 4WD or SUV is recommended for yayla roads in wet weather
Bayburt Otogar has a small waiting room and tea stall — arrive 30 min before departure