Things To Do
in Cihanbeyli
Cihanbeyli is a rural town in Konya Province on the central Anatolian plateau. It sits amid wide agricultural plains where grain and olive farming shape daily life and Turkish hospitality anchors visitors' experience. The town blends a quiet street grid, a historic mosque, traditional stone houses, and a growing scene of cafes and markets.
Located between Konya and Ankara, Cihanbeyli serves as a calm base for exploring rural Anatolia with easy day trips to hillside viewpoints and nearby villages.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Cihanbeyli Mosque, an architectural gem that reflects the rich history of the region. As you wander through the charming streets, take in the local shops and cafes, where you can savor a traditional Turkish breakfast of menemen and fresh bread. Don’t forget to stop by the bustling market to experience the vibrant local culture and perhaps pick up some handmade crafts.
After lunch at a local eatery, head to the Cihanbeyli Cultural Center where you can learn about the area's heritage through engaging exhibits. Spend the afternoon strolling through the picturesque parks, enjoying the serene environment and perhaps reading a book under the shade of a tree. Capture some beautiful photos of the surrounding landscapes and the charming architecture that Cihanbeyli is known for.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant that offers stunning views of the city. Sample local specialties like testi kebab, a delicious dish cooked in a clay pot, while soaking in the ambiance of the evening. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Start your day early with a guided nature walk through the stunning landscapes surrounding Cihanbeyli. Enjoy the fresh air as you explore the diverse flora and fauna, listening to the soothing sounds of nature. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views of rolling hills and vast fields.
After a refreshing hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the scenic viewpoints, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Spend the afternoon visiting local farms to learn about traditional agricultural practices and perhaps even participate in a hands-on workshop. Engage with the friendly locals and sample fresh produce that is a highlight of the region.
Return to town for a cozy dinner at a family-run restaurant where you can enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Try out local delicacies like gözleme, a savory pastry filled with cheese and spinach. Conclude your day by relaxing at a café, sipping on Turkish tea while reflecting on your day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🥖Bakery item | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🚶Local transit (one-way) | $0.5-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a welcoming village atmosphere
- Affordability and easy access to rural Konya landscapes
- Quiet, authentic experience away from bigger tourist crowds
- Good base for day trips to nearby historical sites
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Longer trips to reach major airports or large-city attractions
- Language barrier in more rural spots
- Fewer hotel options compared to larger destinations
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet / Hayır" - Yes / No
- "Nerede... ?" - Where is... ?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Banyo nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "İngilizce biliyor musunuz?" - Do you speak English?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?
- "Benim adım..." - My name is...
Places to Visit in Cihanbeyli
Visit one of these nice places.
A charming hub with traditional stone houses, mosques, and daily market scenes, especially photogenic at dawn and dusk.
Historic architecture and narrow lanes offer intimate street photography with warm desert light.
Outskirts viewpoints provide expansive landscapes at sunrise and sunset.
Vibrant fruit, vegetable, and spice stalls offer dynamic close-ups and lifestyle shots.
Food in Cihanbeyli
Cihanbeyli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful thin flatbread topped with spiced minced meat and onions, best sampled at local kebap houses.
Must-Try!
A tangy, hearty soup made from a fermented yogurt-based powder, perfect on cooler days.
Turkish dumplings served with yogurt and garlic butter sauce; a popular comfort dish you’ll find in many eateries.
Okra cooked with tomatoes, peppers and spices; a seasonal staple in many Cihanbeyli kitchens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling central market where locals buy fresh produce, olive oil, herbs, and bread; sample fresh simit and borek from street stalls.
Simit, gözleme, ayran, and dürüm-style tavuk or köfte wraps are common quick bites around town squares.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite “Merhaba” and smile; a handshake is common among adults; show respect in mosques and sacred sites.
Tea is central; accept offers and sip slowly; remove shoes when entering some homes; use right hand for meals.
Dress modestly in public and at religious sites; avoid loud behavior in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Cihanbeyli
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (5-10%) in restaurants if service charge isn’t included; round up taxi fares; tip guides on tours.
Turkish Lira is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in towns, but carry cash for small vendors and rural cafes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days; carry water, wear a hat, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild temperatures with golden light; ideal for hikes and village visits, with occasional showers.
Cold and possibly snowy; indoor attractions and warm teahouse visits are popular; pack layers.
Pleasant temps and blooming landscapes; great for walking and photography in the countryside.
Cihanbeyli at Night
Hiking in Cihanbeyli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle looping trail with expansive plains views, suitable for a half-day hike.
Moderate climb to a high overlook offering panoramic views of the Konya plains.
Airports
How to reach Cihanbeyli by plane.
The nearest major airport, about 60-90 minutes by road from Cihanbeyli, with domestic flights and connections to Istanbul and Ankara.
A larger international hub about 2–2.5 hours by car or bus, offering more flight options.
A regional hub about 2.5–3 hours away by road, with frequent domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents work in agriculture and related trades.
Cihanbeyli hosts educational institutions and a steady student community.
A significant older demographic that shapes community life and traditional customs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
By far the most popular sport regionally, with local teams and fan activity in community leagues.
Cultural sporting tradition in some nearby villages and seasonal events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cihanbeyli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy lentil or barley-based dishes, sütlaç-style desserts, and fresh salads; ask for olive oil-based preparations and avoid heavy meat sauces.