population: 0.77 million

extension: 25,066 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Erzurum and interested in visiting museums, the following are some options:
1. Erzurum Archaeological Museum
2. Atatürk House Museum
3. Yakutiye Medrese Museum

If you're looking for similar types of museums near Erzurum, you could consider visiting:
1. Kars Museum in Kars, Turkey (about 2 hours away by car)
2. Ardahan Museum in Ardahan, Turkey (about 3 hours away by car)
3. Bayburt Castle and Ethnography Museum in Bayburt, Turkey (about 3 hours away by car)

Food

Erzurum has a rich culinary culture and here are some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes according to local people:

1. Cağ Kebabı: A traditional dish made with marinated lamb meat cooked on a horizontal skewer over an open fire.

2. Piti: A hearty soup-like dish made with lamb or beef, chickpeas, onions, and potatoes, seasoned with saffron and served in a clay pot.

3. Kuymak: A creamy and cheesy dish made with cornmeal, butter, and cheese.

4. Ayran Aşı: A yogurt-based soup made with flour, chickpeas, and spices.

5. Tandır Kebabı: A slow-cooked lamb or beef kebab, served with rice pilaf and a side salad.

6. Katmer: A crispy pastry filled with clotted cream, sugar, and crushed pistachios.

7. Kadayıf Dolması: Sweet treats made from shredded wheat, stuffed with nuts, and soaked in syrup.

These dishes are readily available in Erzurum's local restaurants and cafes and are definitely worth trying to experience the city's unique culinary traditions.

Activities

Sure, here are some fun activities that local people enjoy in Erzurum:

1. Skiing and snowboarding at Palandöken Ski Center.
2. Visiting the historical sites like Çifte Minareli Medrese and Yakutiye Medrese.
3. Trying traditional dishes such as Cağ Kebabı and Ayran soup.
4. Shopping for local souvenirs and handicrafts at Bazaar area.
5. Taking a walk around Atatürk University campus or enjoying a picnic at Narmanlı Springs.

These are just a few examples, but there are many more things to do and see in Erzurum.