Things To Do
in Konya
Konya, Turkey, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, showcasing a rich tapestry of history that dates back to the Hittite era around 3000 BC. It is renowned for its significant cultural heritage, including being the center of the Sufi Mevlevi order, famously associated with the Whirling Dervishes and the mystic poet Rumi.
Today, Konya is a blend of historical sites, such as the Alaeddin Mosque and the Mevlana Museum, set against a backdrop of a rapidly growing, modern cityscape, making it a unique destination that bridges ancient traditions with contemporary Turkish life.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Mevlana Museum to learn about Rumi's life and teachings. The serene atmosphere will provide a perfect backdrop for reflection.
Head to the Alaeddin Hill where you can explore the park and the historic Alaeddin Mosque. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the nearby cafés.
Visit the Karatay Medrese to see beautiful tile work and art exhibits. Cap off your day with a traditional Turkish dinner.
Visit the Ince Minare Museum to admire Seljuk architecture and impressive stone carvings. This museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Explore the archaeological finds at the Konya Archaeological Museum. Have lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring local dishes.
Enjoy an evening stroll around the city center and experience the local night market. Sample some street food for a true taste of Konya.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites such as the Mevlana Museum and the Alaeddin Mosque.
- Famous for its delicious local cuisine, including Pirinç Pilavi and Etli Ekmek.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in Turkey.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including the nearby Cappadocia region.
- Strong sense of community and family values among residents.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Hot summers and cold winters can be challenging for some residents.
- Public transportation options may not be as extensive as in larger cities.
- Less vibrant nightlife compared to other major cities like Istanbul or Ankara.
- Some areas may experience slower development and modernization.
Best Activities in Konya
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking and enjoying panoramic views of Konya
Exploring the historical and natural beauty of the village, and hiking along the Sille Stream
Relaxing and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere in the garden
Visiting the butterfly garden and enjoying the diverse flora and fauna
Tours
Uncover the best of Konya with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Konya
Visit one of these nice places.
Provides a beautiful backdrop for photos and offers a glimpse into the history and culture of Konya.
Offers panoramic views of the city and a great spot for capturing sunset pictures.
A historic village with charming architecture and scenic landscapes, perfect for photography.
Food in Konya
Konya Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Turkish pizza-like dish topped with minced meat and served with fresh vegetables. It can be found at numerous local eateries and restaurants in Konya, such as Mevlana Cömleği and Sille.
Must-Try!
A delicious slow-cooked lamb dish, traditionally prepared in stone ovens. The best place to try this dish is at the renowned Tike Restaurant, known for its delectable kebabs.
A flavorful rice and lamb soup seasoned with garlic and Turkish spices. Beyran Restaurant is a popular spot to savor this authentic Konya dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Konya better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An exceptional place to sample a variety of Konya's street food, including gözleme (flatbreads filled with meat or cheese), stuffed mussels, and grilled corn. The market offers a vibrant atmosphere with stalls showcasing local culinary delights.
Ideal for experiencing authentic street food in Konya. Visitors can relish treats such as simit (Turkish bagels), köfte (meatballs), and delectable desserts like Turkish delight and baklava.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet people with a handshake, and it is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home. Hospitality is highly valued, and it is common for hosts to offer tea or coffee to guests.
Konya is a conservative city with strong religious and cultural traditions. It is important to show respect for religious sites, such as the Mevlana Museum, and to be mindful of local customs, especially during religious holidays.
In Konya, it is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or conservative areas. Both men and women should avoid wearing revealing clothing, and women may consider covering their heads in certain settings out of respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Konya with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Konya
Ensure a smooth experience
In Konya, Turkey, it is customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants if the service charge is not already included. Tipping hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides is also appreciated but not always expected.
In Konya, Turkey, cash is widely accepted for small purchases, but credit and debit cards are becoming more common, especially in larger establishments. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Konya.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather, blooming flowers, and cultural events such as the Whirling Dervishes Festival.
Hot and dry weather, perfect for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
Cooler temperatures, colorful foliage, and the annual Şeb-i Arus commemorating the death of the famous poet Rumi.
Cold weather, occasional snowfall, and an opportunity to experience traditional Turkish hospitality during the New Year celebrations.
Konya at Night
Hiking in Konya
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park located near Sille village, offering various hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and historical significance.
A popular hiking destination with scenic trails that lead to the summit, providing panoramic views of the Central Anatolia region.
This national park features hiking trails alongside the lake, rich flora, and fauna, and opportunities for bird watching.
A scenic hiking path that follows the Kızılırmak River, allowing hikers to experience nature and enjoy the riverside views.
A refreshing hiking spot close to Konya that offers lush greenery and picturesque views of the city from the top.
Aiports
How to reach Konya by plane.
Located in Izmir, approximately 260 km from Konya, Adnan Menderes Airport is one of the major international airports in Turkey, serving domestic and international flights.
Situated in Antalya, about 230 km from Konya, Antalya Airport is a key international airport, especially popular for tourism.
Approximately 150 km from Konya, Eskişehir Airport offers limited international flights along with domestic services.
Located in Nevşehir, around 240 km from Konya, Cappadocia Airport serves the popular tourist region of Cappadocia with international and domestic flights.
While farther away at approximately 700 km from Konya, Istanbul Airport is one of the largest and busiest hubs in the world, connecting to numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, constituting the majority of the population in Konya.
A significant minority group in Konya, contributing to the cultural diversity.
A smaller demographic group found in Konya, primarily among rural populations.
An ethnic minority in Konya, with historical ties to the region.
A minority group that has settled in Konya, often linked to historical migrations.
A small demographic group present in Konya, contributing to its cultural tapestry.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Konya, with clubs like Konyaspor playing in the Turkish Süper Lig and a passionate fan base.
Basketball is also gaining popularity, with local teams competing in various leagues and increasing fan support.
Volleyball enjoys a significant following in Konya, with both men's and women's teams competing at various levels.
Athletics has a presence in Konya, with local events and competitions encouraging participation among youth.
Traditional Turkish wrestling is practiced in Konya, reflecting cultural heritage and local interest in martial sports.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Konya, with various cycling events and enthusiasts promoting this sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Konya.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Konya's culinary scene has evolved to accommodate vegetarian and vegan preferences, with many restaurants offering a diverse range of plant-based dishes such as stuffed grape leaves, eggplant dishes, and lentil soups. Notable venues include Kubbealtı Restaurant and Mevlana Restaurant.
While it's recommended to communicate your dietary needs clearly, some restaurants and cafes in Konya are equipped to provide gluten-free alternatives. Dishes like grilled meats, rice-based pilafs, and yogurt-based sauces are generally safe options to explore.