Erzurum is a historic city at 1,890 metres elevation in northeastern Turkey, commanding the high plateau where ancient Silk Road caravans once crossed. The city holds one of Turkey's finest concentrations of Seljuk and Mongol architecture — the Çifte Minareli Medrese, Yakutiye Medresesi and Üç Kümbetler tombs stand beside an Ottoman castle with sweeping panoramas. Fifteen kilometres from the centre, Palandöken mountain hosts one of the Middle East's premier ski resorts. Erzurum is the birthplace of cağ kebabı, the horizontally-spit-roasted lamb unique to the region, and the origin of oltu taşı jet-stone jewellery.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Children's Ski School at Palandöken
Dedicated beginner slopes and certified ski instructors for children aged 5 and up. Lessons from 500 TRY / $15 per hour. Helmets mandatory.
Snowman Building and Snow Play
The resort base area has safe, flat snow areas perfect for sledging and snow play — free and very popular with Turkish families.
Erzurum Castle Visit
Children enjoy exploring the castle walls and turrets and the panoramic city views — the climb is gentle and the fee is low (30 TRY / $0.90).
Tortum Waterfall Day Trip
A spectacular waterfall 96 km north — children are thrilled by the power and spray of the falls. Picnic areas nearby.
Oltu Taşı Workshop Visit
Craftsmen in the bazaar basement welcome curious visitors including children; watching jet stone being carved and polished is engaging.
ATV Tours on the Plateau
Children over 10 can ride on the back of ATV quad bikes on guided tours of the Palandöken plateau.
Atatürk Congress Museum
Well-preserved museum with exhibits on the founding of Turkey — good for teenage history learners.
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
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Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Build downtime into every day — over-scheduled kids melt down faster than tired adults.
Carry snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit at all times.
Many attractions offer discounted family tickets — ask at the ticket window.