Things To Do
in Konya
Konya sits in the Central Anatolian plateau, blending a deep medieval heritage with a calm modern atmosphere. It is famed for the Mevlana (Rumi) complex and the Whirling Dervishes, drawing visitors seeking spiritual depth and architectural beauty. The city showcases impressive Seljuk-era mosques, madrasas, and caravanserais set against a vast steppe landscape.
Life in Konya balances scholarly heritage with cozy cafés, green parks, and a restful rhythm that contrasts with Turkey’s coastal hotspots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Mevlana Museum, where you can learn about the life of Rumi and explore the intricate architecture. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the nearby Alaeddin Park, taking in the lush greenery and historical artifacts. Don’t forget to grab a local breakfast of Simit and tea at a nearby café to fuel your exploration.
After lunch at a traditional Konya restaurant, visit the Karatay Medrese, which houses stunning tile work and artifacts from the Seljuk period. Take time to wander through the bustling bazaars nearby, where you can pick up local handicrafts and souvenirs. As the sun begins to set, make your way to the historic Ince Minare Museum to admire its Seljuk architecture.
For dinner, indulge in a famous Konya specialty, Etli Ekmek, at a local eatery. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the streets adorned with twinkling lights and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Wrap up your day by sipping on Turkish tea at a café while enjoying traditional music.
Begin your culinary journey with a cooking class that introduces you to the flavors of Konya cuisine. Learn to prepare local dishes such as Manti and Tandır Kebab from a skilled chef. Enjoy tasting your creations, paired with regional wines or refreshing ayran.
Post-cooking class, head to the local market to explore the fresh ingredients that make up the region’s delicious offerings. Engage with local vendors and perhaps buy some spices to take home. For lunch, try a local favorite, the kebab at a renowned restaurant.
For dinner, visit a traditional Mevlevi restaurant where you can enjoy a performance while dining. Experience the captivating Whirling Dervishes and learn about the spiritual significance of their dance. Conclude the night with a sweet dessert, such as Baklava, paired with strong Turkish coffee.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-85 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $2-4 |
| 🎟️Museum or site entrance | $3-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Seljuk heritage and Mevlana culture
- Calm pace and walkable old town
- Excellent street food and hearty Central Anatolian cuisine
- Good day-trip access to natural areas like Sille and Beyşehir
- Limited nightlife compared to coastal cities
- Can be very hot in summer; carry water
- Some sites have limited English signage; guided tours help
- Public transport is smaller-scale than big cities; taxis are common
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede oteldeyiz?" - Where is the hotel?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "İyiyim, teşekkürler" - I am well, thank you
- "Bir market var mı?" - Is there a market?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Şu an saat kaç?" - What time is it now?
- "İyi akşamlar" - Good evening
Places to Visit in Konya
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic space around the Whirling Dervish shrine; ideal for dawn or golden-hour photography with reflective courtyards.
Panoramic views over Konya’s skyline and the old city walls; great for cityscape photography.
Seljuk architecture and intricate blue tilework; striking details for architectural shots.
Ottoman-era minaret and surrounding historic streets; a quiet backdrop for street photography.
Ancient churches and ruins set in a lush river valley; excellent for history and landscape photos.
Food in Konya
Konya Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Konya specialty: long, thin flatbread topped with seasoned minced meat and herbs, best enjoyed fresh and hot.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted lamb served with bread and yogurt; a hearty staple in Central Anatolia.
Meat and vegetables cooked in a clay pot, typically opened at the table for a theatrical presentation.
Okra soup; a comforting starter often served with bread.
Flaky pastries and stuffed flatbreads; common snacks for breakfast or a light meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic covered market in the city center where you can sample olives, dried fruits, simit, fresh bread, and everyday snacks.
Stalls around the old town offer gözleme, simit, borek, and other quick bites to go.
Specialized street stalls offering hot etli ekmek slices; pair with a ayran for a refreshing drink.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a respectful 'Merhaba' and a handshake; remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional spaces where indicated.
In religious sites and conservative areas, shoulders and knees should be covered; lightweight layering is useful year-round.
Say 'Afiyet olsun' before eating; avoid loud behavior in places of worship and during prayer times.
Safety
Tipping in Konya
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is common if service is satisfactory; rounding up at cafes or taxis is appreciated but not required.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas; cash (Turkish Lira) is still commonly used in markets; ATMs are plentiful.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming landscapes; perfect for strolling the old town and outdoor sites, but bring a light layer for cool mornings.
Hot and dry; plan outdoor visits for early morning or late afternoon; stay hydrated and seek shade or indoor museums during peak heat.
Pleasant temperatures with colorful skies; ideal for walking tours and day trips to nearby natural spots.
Cold and sometimes snowy; pack warm clothing, and expect shorter days with some sites offering reduced hours.
Konya at Night
Hiking in Konya
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle trails around the Sille Open Air Museum area offering river views and historic ruins.
Scenic lakefront trails with opportunities for birdwatching and sunset photography.
Country lanes through farmland and small villages; easy day hikes with flat terrain.
Airports
How to reach Konya by plane.
Main airport serving Konya; close to the city center with taxi and shuttle options.
A larger hub about 1.5–2 hours away by road; frequent flights and car rental available.
Further away but useful for international connections; a longer drive to reach Konya.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Turkish residents with a mix of urban professionals, students, and families; minority communities include Kurds and other groups in smaller numbers.
Several universities contribute to a sizable student population, fueling a lively cafe and cultural scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local clubs and active fan culture.
Common in schools and community centers; local leagues and casual courts around the city.
Seasonal cultural events and local dances appear in festivals and city programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Konya.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy lentil soups, gözleme with vegetables, beans, salads, and meze plates; request no meat in mixed dishes when possible.