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.
Erzurum's nightlife reflects its conservative Muslim character. There are no nightclubs in the Western sense and alcohol is served only in a handful of licensed establishments and hotel bars. The authentic evening experience is the çayhane (tea house) — men gather from dusk playing backgammon, discussing local affairs and drinking endless small glasses of black tea. The Palandöken resort hotels have bars that stay open late during ski season and attract a more lively après-ski crowd.
Nightlife districts
Where the action happens after dark.
Bars & pubs
Where locals drink.
Dedeman Palandöken Ski Bar
Known for: Après-ski drinks, cocktails, Turkish wine and spirits
Palandöken Mevkii, 25100 Erzurum
Polat Hotel Bar
Known for: Hotel bar with cocktails and local spirits
Palandöken Mevkii, Yıldızkent, 25100 Erzurum
Clubs
For dancing into the early hours.
Dedeman Palandöken Lounge Bar
Cover: None
Hours: Daily 20:00–02:00 (ski season); 20:00–24:00 (off-season)
Keyif Cafe Live Nights
Cover: None
Hours: Thursday–Saturday 20:00–01:00
Nightlife tips
Stay safe and have fun.
Most venues warm up after midnight — earlier arrivals get easier entry and shorter queues.
Carry ID, even if you look older — bouncers check at most venues.
Plan your ride home before you go out — last transport runs earlier than the clubs close.