Erzurum

This high-altitude fortress city in eastern Anatolia showcases some of Turkey's finest Seljuk architecture, including the stunning twin minarets of Çifte Minareli Medrese and the historic Erzurum Castle. As one of Turkey's coldest cities and a major winter sports center, Erzurum offers world-class skiing at Palandöken Mountain alongside centuries of cultural heritage. The city's strategic location on ancient trade routes is reflected in its impressive mosques, madrasas, and the bustling traditional bazaar.