Erzincan is a provincial capital in eastern Turkey set at 1,185 metres in a broad valley carved by the Fırat (Euphrates) River. The province stretches from the volcanic peaks of the Mercan Mountains in the west to the high plateaux bordering Erzurum in the east. Erzincan is renowned throughout Turkey for two things: its exquisite telkari silver filigree jewellery tradition and its Tulum peyniri — a crumbly, pungent cheese matured in a goatskin pouch. The surrounding landscape rewards visitors with deep river gorges, thermal springs, Urartu-era ruins, and one of eastern Turkey's best ski resorts at Ergan Mountain.
Erzincan ranks among Turkey's safer provincial cities for travellers. Street crime targeting tourists is rare. The most significant risks are natural: winter road ice on mountain routes, spring flooding in gorges, and occasional seismic activity (Erzincan lies near the North Anatolian Fault). Standard precautions apply.
Current safety advisory
Generally Safe. Low Petty Crime, High Community Hospitality.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) in separate locations.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
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- Erzincan State Hospital (Devlet Hastanesi) provides 24-hour emergency care: +90 446 214 4444
- Private Erzincan Özel Hastanesi: Cumhuriyet Cad., Erzincan (check current number at reception)
- Pharmacies (eczane) are common in city centre along Cumhuriyet Cad.; rotating 24-hr nöbetçi eczane is posted on all pharmacy doors
- Tap water in Erzincan city is treated; bottled water (1.5 L: 8–15 TRY / $0.24–0.45) is recommended for sensitive stomachs
- No mandatory vaccinations for Turkey; Hepatitis A, typhoid and tetanus boosters are recommended
- European Health Insurance Card is not accepted in Turkey — comprehensive travel insurance including emergency evacuation is strongly advised
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
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