Walking Through Erzincan: Sights, Sounds and Stories

I am a nature photographer capturing Turkey's breathtaking landscapes.

I planned to spend just one day in Erzincan, but I ended up staying three. That is the kind of place it is — it grabs you and does not let go.

Exploring Erzincan on foot was the best decision I made. Every corner had something new to discover. I found a tiny cafe hidden behind an old mosque where they served the most authentic Turkish tea I have ever tasted.

My biggest tip for visiting Erzincan: skip the main road and explore the back streets. That is where you will find the authentic experiences, the best food, and the friendliest people. The tourist path, if there even is one, only scratches the surface.

The natural beauty around Erzincan is staggering. I hiked to a viewpoint that overlooked the entire valley, and for a moment, I forgot I was in Turkey. It felt like Switzerland, except warmer and with better food.

The people of Erzincan are what made this trip truly special. I was lost looking at my phone when an elderly man approached me, figured out where I was trying to go, and personally walked me there. That is Erzincan hospitality in a nutshell.

My travel hack for Erzincan: this is the insider tip you need. Seriously, this is the insider tip you need.

I tried the famous local dish of Erzincan at three different restaurants just to compare. Each version was slightly different, reflecting the cook unique touch. The common thread was the incredible quality of local ingredients.

I spent an entire afternoon in the old quarter of Erzincan. The architecture tells a story of centuries — Ottoman influences blend with modern Turkish design in a way that feels organic rather than forced.

My Erzincan chapter is closed for now, but the memories will stay with me forever. To everyone reading this: put Erzincan on your list. You will not regret it.