Since Erzurum is located in the east of Turkey, it has both a strategic and important position in terms of transportation. Transportation to the city is provided by various methods including road, railway and airline. Erzurum Airport serves both domestic and international flights in some periods and gains intensity especially during the winter tourism season. Direct flights are available from many major cities in Turkey. Railway services connect the city with other Eastern Anatolian provinces and major cities in western Turkey. Erzurum also has an extensive road network and offers easy access to neighboring provinces and other parts of Turkey by road.
Urban transportation is provided by buses, minibuses and taxis. Erzurum has a wide municipal bus network and these buses make regular trips to many parts of the city. Minibuses are another popular mode of transportation, mostly preferred for local transportation and serving places where bus routes do not reach. Taxis are also quite common and are used especially at night or for more specialized transportation needs.
In terms of transportation to universities in Erzurum, especially Atatürk University is an important center. Transportation from the city center to the university campus can be easily provided by municipal buses and minibuses. Since the campus area is large, ring shuttles operate within the campus to facilitate the relocation of students and staff within the campus. These shuttles run regularly between student dormitories, faculties, library and other important campus buildings.
In short, transportation to Erzurum and to important points within Erzurum is supported by various and efficient methods. While it is easily accessible from outside the city, there is also an efficient transportation network within the city. Access to universities is facilitated by transportation options for students and academic staff, which is a factor that supports participation in educational activities.