Erzurum in 1 Day for Seniors - Üç Kümbetler (Three Tombs)
In Collaboration with SilkRoad Moments. Updated on February 28, 2026.
Meet your private guide at the symbol of Erzurum, Çifte Minareli Medrese (Twin Minaret Madrasa) on Cumhuriyet Cd. This 5-hour, easy-paced walking tour visits the city's major historic sites: Üç Kümbetler (Three Tombs), a 300-year-old Ottoman house museum, Ulu Mosque, the Twin Minaret Madrasa, Erzurum Castle (clock tower view), a traditional tea break and lunch inside converted Ottoman houses, andR
This itinerary was created in collaboration with SilkRoad Moments, inspired by the tour All-inclusive Private Guided Walking Tour of Erzurum City. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Üç Kümbetler (Three Tombs)
- Visit a restored 300-year-old Ottoman house
- Erzurum Ulu Mosque (Grand Mosque)
- Çifte Minareli Medrese (Twin Minaret Madrasa)
- Erzurum Castle clock tower view and inner city walls viewable from the ramparts and tower (short climb available; optional to remain at base for step-free access).
Itinerary
Day 1
Private 5-hour guided walking tour. Meet guide at Çifte Minareli Medrese (Twin Minaret Madrasa) on Cumhuriyet Cd. Tour pacing and rest breaks are designed for comfort and short walking distances; wheelchair access is available at most stops per local site policies.
Three Tombs (Üç Kümbetler)
See the Three Tombs, one of historic Erzurum’s iconic monuments. The large octagonal tomb is traditionally linked to Emir Saltuk; the two smaller tombs are 12-sided and anonymous.
Tips from local experts:
- The site has uneven stone paving and low curbs—wear supportive shoes and use the paved routes the guide will point out.
- There is limited direct shade; bring a light sun hat and use the short benches near the entrance for rest.
- Expect a 5–10 minute, gently sloped walk from the Çifte Minareli meeting point; the guide will set a comfortable pace and pause frequently.
300-year-old Ottoman Home (local house museum)
Visit a preserved 300-year-old Ottoman family home now operated as a small museum. The owner/host provides a short walkthrough showing domestic architecture and everyday items.
Tips from local experts:
- Interior spaces are compact and low-ceilinged; there is seating available — ask the host for a chair if you prefer to sit during explanations.
- Photography is usually allowed but follow any signs or host instructions; the guide will confirm site rules on arrival.
- There are a few short steps at the entrance; the guide can assist and point out a step-free route when available.
Ulu Mosque (Erzurum Grand Mosque)
Visit Erzurum’s Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii), originally built in 1179; noted for its Seljuk-era pillars, arches and traditional wooden dovetail roof technique.
Tips from local experts:
- This is an active place of worship—dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) and remove shoes inside main prayer areas as instructed.
- There are shaded areas and seating at the mosque courtyard for short rests; worship times can affect quietness—your guide will schedule the visit accordingly.
- Footwear removal can be slow for larger groups—allow an extra 5 minutes for taking off/on shoes; wear socks for comfort.
Twin Minaret Madrasa (Çifte Minareli Medrese)
See the symbol of Erzurum: the 13th-century Seljuk Çifte Minareli Medrese with its open courtyard and ornate stonework. The guide will explain its architectural details and historical role.
Tips from local experts:
- The courtyard has level access; benches and shaded spots are available for rest while the guide explains the facade details.
- The area can be breezy—bring a light layer. There are staffed entrances where the guide will handle any brief entry procedures.
- If you prefer to avoid standing in the sun, ask your guide to position the group near the covered arcade for explanations.
Erzurum Castle (Erzurum Kalesi) and clock tower view
Explore the inner walls of the old city and the historic Erzurum Castle; an optional short climb of the clock tower gives a wide view of the city (guides will offer a step-free alternative at the base).
Tips from local experts:
- The castle ramparts and tower involve stone steps; if you prefer to avoid stairs, remain at accessible viewpoints where the guide will explain the site.
- The clock tower climb is optional—ask the guide for assistance or to wait at the base; allow extra time if taking the tower (roughly 10–15 minutes).
- Carry a small bottle of water from the provided supply; benches near the castle provide comfortable rest stops.
The Erzurum Houses — tea and lunch (converted Ottoman houses)
Sit for Turkish tea and a included lunch inside restored Ottoman homes that function as a museum-restaurant. This is a relaxed, seated meal with time to rest and enjoy local specialties.
Tips from local experts:
- The seating is at low tables in traditional rooms; request standard-height seating in advance if bending low is difficult.
- Meal includes local dishes and tea—inform the guide ahead of any dietary restrictions so the kitchen can accommodate them.
- Restroom facilities are available on site; take your time—this stop is intentionally longer for comfort and recovery from walking.
Rustem Pasha Caravan Saray (Rüstem Paşa Kervansarayı)
Visit a restored Ottoman caravanserai used along the Silk Road; today it hosts local silver and jewelry merchants and is known locally for black stone used in prayer beads.
Tips from local experts:
- The caravanserai has stone floors and narrow aisles—use supportive shoes and let the guide assist with seating or a rest stop inside covered areas.
- If you plan to look at small souvenirs, ask the shopkeepers to show items on a tray while seated to avoid standing for long periods.
- Haggling is light and polite; if you prefer not to negotiate, ask the guide to help communicate or simply request a clear, fixed price.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Seniors |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 7 |
| Total Places | 7 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Culture, Meal, Shopping |