Things to Do in Konya Turkey the Ultimate Guide

Have you ever visited the beautiful city of Konya, Turkey? Have you experienced its unique culture and tasted its delicious food?

Konya is an ancient city that dates back to the 8th century BC, and it has been home to many memorable historical figures. The city is filled with bustling markets, charming cafés, and some stunningly beautiful architecture. Although it's not as well known as Istanbul or Ankara, Konya has plenty to offer in terms of culture, entertainment, and history.

It is a great place to visit whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation. In this ultimate guide, we are going to discover all the best things to do in Konya so that you can make the most out of your visit to this Turkish gem.

Konya, Turkey is a city full of history and culture that should not be missed. It is home to the Mevlana Museum, which houses the sarcophagus of Rumi, one of the most famous Sufi mystics in history. Visitors can also explore the oldest bazaar in Konya, Aziziye Mosque, Selimiye Mosque, and Alaeddin Mosque. The city's varied cuisine is worth exploring as well as Çatalhöyük, Panorama Museum, Ince Minare Stone Work Museum and Tropical Butterfly Garden.

At the Mevlana Museum visitors can attend a Turkish dance demonstration and learn about the Whirling Dervishes who are said to have originated from this area. Getting around Konya is easy with plenty of attractions such as Bedesten Bazaar, mosques and other attractions to explore. For a traditional experience of Turkey take a daytrip to Sille where you can visit ancient ruins we will talk about that more in the post down below.

What Is Konya, Turkey Known For?

Konya, Turkey is a city with a unique blend of modernity and religious conservatism. It is the most religiously conservative city in the country, yet it is also home to many young and trendy college students. The population consists of both locals and foreigners who come to experience the city's spiritual atmosphere.

Konya is considered Turkey's spiritual capital and is an important center of Sufism, music, and art. The city has two distinct sections - the new part of town with tall towers and the old town which feels like a mid-size village. Konya's most famous attraction is the tomb of Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Balkhī (Rumi).

This site attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to pay their respects to this great poet and philosopher. Additionally, Konya hosts several festivals throughout the year such as Mevlana Festival which celebrates Rumi’s life and teachings. Visitors can also explore Konya

Is Konya Worth Visiting?

Konya is a beautiful city in Turkey that is worth visiting. The city center is conveniently located, making it easy to explore in a couple of days. The food is delicious and the locals are welcoming to visitors.

Konya is also home to an iconic turquoise mosque tower and the Whirling Dervishes ceremony, although unfortunately the author visited when the mosque tower was undergoing restoration and had missed the ceremony.

Despite this setback, Konya still has much to offer visitors. It was once the capital of the Seljuk Turks during the 12th and 13th centuries, so there are many historical sites to explore. There are also plenty of cultural attractions such as museums, galleries and markets that can be enjoyed. All in all, Konya is definitely worth visiting for its fascinating culture and history.

Is Konya Safe?

Konya is one of the safest cities in Turkey, with very little crime. This is due to its conservative and religious nature, which leads people to mind their behavior. People in Konya are known for being polite and welcoming to visitors, making it a great place to visit. Despite its religious conservatism, Konya is still safe for visitors and extremism is not an issue.

Konya has many unforgettable sites and activities that make it a great destination for tourists. The city's famous Mevlana Museum houses the tomb of the Sufi poet Rumi, while other attractions include the Alaeddin Mosque and Karatay Medresesi.

There are also plenty of shopping opportunities in Konya, from traditional markets to modern malls. With so much to see and do, Konya is a great place to visit for those looking for a safe yet exciting holiday destination.

Ultimate List Of The Best 15 Things To Do In Konya

Visit the Mevlana Museum

The Mevlana Museum in Konya, Turkey is a stunning building with a green dome located in the center of the old town. It is the resting place of Rumi, one of the best poets of all time, and was built in 1274 with additions from Suleiman the Magnificent. The museum is a place of pilgrimage and visitors should be respectful while enjoying its peaceful atmosphere.

The Mevlana Museum is set within rose gardens and contains a mausoleum, semahane (hall for dervish ceremonies), lodge kitchen, and dervish cells with exhibits on dervish life. Visitors can explore the complex to learn more about Sufism and the life of Mevlana Celaleddin Rumi. The museum also offers guided tours which provide insight into Rumi’s life and teachings as well as an opportunity to experience traditional Turkish hospitality. Whether you are looking for spiritual enlightenment or simply want to appreciate some beautiful architecture

Eat Etliekmek As If Your Life Depended On It

Etliekmek is a traditional dish from Konya, Turkey that is sure to make your taste buds dance. It is made with ground beef, cheese, onions, tomatoes, and peppers on a light and flaky dough. The Bedesten Bazaar in Konya is the place to go for the best etliekmek experience. Here you can watch it being prepared in a brick oven right before your eyes. Eating etliekmek as soon as you arrive in Konya is highly recommended; it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

Eating etliekmek should be done as if your life depended on it. The combination of flavors and textures will have you coming back for more. The beef has a savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the melted cheese and vegetables. The dough is light and flaky, making each bite even more enjoyable. Etliekmek can be enjoyed at any time of day or

Explore The Oldest Bazaar In Konya

The Bedesten Bazaar is the oldest bazaar in Konya, located a 5-minute walk from the Mevlana Museum. This bustling market offers an array of spices, sweets and other artisanal goods. Visitors can also explore the Grand Bazaar of Konya, which is a historic area with small businesses selling copper works, handcrafted gifts and decor. The Aziziye Mosque is arguably the most beautiful mosque in Konya, reconstructed in a Baroque style. It features a cube-shaped building with beautiful gold and white designs on the walls and ceiling. Selimiye Masjid is another Ottoman-era mosque built in 1567 by Ottoman ruler Selim II, featuring a large square in front and an impressive domed ceiling inside.

The Mevlana Shrine in Konya is one of the most popular tourist destinations for its historical significance as it houses the tomb of Rumi, the famous Sufi poet and mystic.

Admire the Ceramic Artistry in the Karatay Tile Works Museum

The Karatay Tile Works Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in admiring the artistry of Seljuk enamel tile work. Located in Konya, Turkey, this former theological college has been restored and turned into a museum showcasing the intricate designs of these tiles. The internal walls are covered with beautiful examples of Seljuk tiling, as well as ceramic exhibits from nearby archaeological sites. The left-hand room even contains the tomb of Celaleddin Karatay, the founder of the college.

Ince Minare Madresi is another great place to admire Seljuk architecture and stone-works. This building dates back to the 1200s and now functions as a museum with elaborately designed mosque doors, decorative panels, and other artifacts. Visitors can admire the entranceway and minaret from outside or explore inside to get a closer look at these masterpieces of Seljuk architecture. Konya's Tropical Butterfly Garden is also worth visiting for

Watch the Whirling Dervishes

The whirling dervish ceremony is a spiritual ritual that has been practiced in Turkey for centuries. It is the main devotional ritual of Sufis and is called a sema. The best place to watch this mesmerizing performance is in Konya, Turkey. The IRFAN Civilization Center and Mevlana Culture Center both host Sufi dance rituals year-round on Saturdays at 7pm, while the Konya Mevlana Museum hosts them during the summer months (June to September) starting at 8.45pm in its rose garden. Both performances are free and no advance booking is necessary.

The whirling dervish troupe in Konya is considered one of the best in Turkey, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience this unique cultural event. During the performance, dancers spin around rapidly while wearing traditional white robes with colorful sashes as they move their arms in a graceful manner to create beautiful patterns with their bodies. This

Visit The Beautiful Aziziye Mosque

The Aziziye Mosque is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture located in Konya, Turkey. Originally constructed in 1676, the mosque was reconstructed in the 19th century in a Baroque style that makes it stand out from other mosques. The interior and exterior are decorated with intricate calligraphy and ceramic tiles in shades of green, blue and gold. The mosque is also famous for its large windows that make it much brighter than other mosques.

Visitors to the Aziziye Mosque can enjoy free entry to the site, although it may be closed for prayer at times during the day. It is situated across from an etliekmek place, which is one of the top things to do in Konya. Sign up to our newsletter to receive useful travel tips from our next destinations! The Aziziye Mosque is a beautiful example of Ottoman art and culture that should not be missed when visiting Konya.

Visit the Ince Minare Mosque Museum

The Ince Minare Mosque is a stunning example of Seljuk-era Islamic architecture, located in Konya, Turkey. Built in 1260, the mosque features an intricately carved octagonal minaret and is now used as a museum exhibiting a large collection of Seljuk-era wooden and stone sculptures. These sculptures often feature finely detailed representations of animals and humans, despite these depictions being banned by Islamic law. The interior and exterior are decorated in shades of green, blue and gold, making it a beautiful example of Ottoman art with intricate calligraphy and ceramic tiles.

Visiting the Ince Minare Mosque Museum is free for all visitors, though it may be closed for prayer at times during the day. It's a great opportunity to explore the history of Islamic architecture and appreciate the beauty of this ancient building. The museum also offers guided tours which provide more information about the mosque's history and its many artifacts. Whether you're interested in learning more about Islamic culture or

Day Trip to the Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük

Çatalhöyük is an ancient Neolithic site located 43 kilometers southeast of Konya, Turkey. It was discovered by a team of British archeologists in 1958 and contains 40 houses, figurines, pottery and wall art. The site has been named a Unesco World Heritage Site due to its historical significance. Excavations are ongoing and visitors can sometimes watch archaeologists working at the site. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in Ankara exhibits the Çatalhöyük excavation finds.

The settlement dates back to around 9,000 years ago and is one of the oldest known human settlements in the world. It is believed to have been a thriving agricultural community with evidence suggesting that it was home to up to 8,000 people at its peak. Visitors can explore the ruins and see some of the artifacts that have been uncovered during excavations such as pottery, figurines, wall art and tools used by early humans. A day

Check-out The Iconic Selimiye Mosque

Selimiye Mosque is an iconic structure located in the center of Konya. It is a very active mosque and a popular spot for locals to socialize and enjoy the sunny days in Konya. The mosque is adjacent to the Mevlana Museum, making it easy to access for visitors. Inside, visitors can explore the stunning interior of the mosque, but should avoid prayer times. Photography is allowed from nearby buildings and Alaaddin Hill Park, allowing visitors to capture its beauty without disturbing those inside.

The Selimiye Mosque stands out among other structures in Konya due to its impressive size and grandeur. Its domes are visible from afar, making it an unmistakable landmark in the city. The mosque has been around since 1522 and continues to be a place of worship today. Its intricate details make it a sight worth seeing when visiting Konya, as well as a reminder of its rich history and culture.

Take a Stroll on Alaeddin Tepe

Alaeddin Tepe is a park located in the city center of Konya, Turkey. It is a popular spot for locals to relax and socialize, with its flower bed displays, cafes and the excavation site of Alaeddin Kaykobad's palace. The Alaeddin Mosque, built in the 13th century, is also located on top of the hill with its wooden ceiling supported by 42 columns from Classical-era sites. It is the oldest Seljuk-era mosque in Turkey, with tombs of several generations of sultans located in the complex.

Kultur Park sits next to Alaeddin Hill, offering a cozy tea-house for visitors to enjoy more çai. This park provides an ideal setting for visitors to take a leisurely stroll while admiring the views of Konya’s skyline and enjoying some fresh air. There are plenty of benches around for those who want to sit down and take it all in

Check Out Konya's Archaeological Museum

Konya's Archaeological Museum is an old and dusty place that has been around since the 1960s. It holds a comprehensive display of finds from the nearby archaeological site of Çatalhöyük, as well as a wonderful collection of intricately decorated Roman sarcophagi. The museum is famous for its collection of artifacts from Catalhoyuk, a Neolithic city included in UNESCO's World Heritage Site List. Visitors can also find ancient Greek and Roman artifacts, including Hercules' Sarcophagus and other grave tombs and sarcophagi.

Just down the road from the Archaeological Museum is Konya's Ethnography Museum, which holds a thorough collection of Turkish crafts, costumes, jewelry, carpets, and household goods. This museum provides visitors with an opportunity to learn more about the culture and history of Turkey through its displays. With its poor lighting and outdated information panels, Konya's Archaeological Museum may not be the most modern or

Go For A Stroll Through Alaeddin Hill Park

Alaeddin Hill Park is a popular spot for Konya's college crowd to relax and socialize. Located in the city centre, the park is walled and contains lush greenery, marble fountain and benches. It also has historical significance as it contains the remains of a citadel and Al'eddin Mosque, built in 1235. The mosque is the oldest Seljuk-era mosque in Turkey, with tombs of several generations of sultans inside.

Kultur Park sits next to Alaeddin Hill, offering a cozy tea-house for visitors. This makes it an ideal spot for visitors to explore the gardens and mosque on Alaeddin Hill for a unique cultural experience. Visitors can take a stroll through the park while admiring its beauty or sit down at one of the benches to enjoy some peace and quiet. With its rich history and beautiful scenery, Alaeddin Hill Park is definitely worth visiting when in Konya!

Hop Into The Alaeddin Mosque – The Oldest Mosque In Konya

The Alaeddin Mosque is the oldest mosque in Konya, Turkey. It was completed in 1220 and served as the mosque of Seljuk sultans. The interior of the mosque is beautiful and there is a courtyard with excellent views of the city. Kultur Park sits next to Alaeddin Hill, offering a large pool, neon-light show, and tea gardens for socializing. Turkish tea gardens offer an essential part of social life in Konya, allowing visitors to enjoy çai and take part in local activities.

In addition to the Alaeddin Mosque, there are several other mosques in the area worth visiting. The Yarn-makers Mosque (Iplikçi Cami) was built in 1201 and stands on twelve huge "elephant-foot" columns, with a richly decorated prayer niche made from marble. The Tower Mosque in the bazaar area was constructed in 1658 and reconstructed in 1811, with an

Photograph Mevlana Meydanı

Mevlana Meydanı is a stunning square in Konya, Turkey that is home to the impressive Selimiye Mosque and Mevlana Museum. The mosque and museum are lit up against the dusk sky, making it an ideal spot for photographs. Across from the square are outdoor cafés and restaurants where visitors can relax with a coffee or tea while admiring the view.

The Mevlana Museum is particularly special as it houses the tomb of Rumi, an Islamic scholar and poet from the 13th century. Inside, visitors can explore a variety of art pieces, relics and antiques that have been collected over time. The building itself is decorated with passages from Rumi's poetry and has a striking green tower roof trimmed with intricate Arabic inscriptions. It’s no wonder why this place has become such a popular destination for tourists!

Explore A Prehistoric Settlement At Çatalhöyük

Çatalhöyük is an ancient settlement located 43 kilometers southeast of Konya, Turkey. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and dates back to around 9,000 years ago. Visitors can explore the excavations of the city and view models of what the structures would have looked like in the past. The city had no roads or sidewalks, and citizens walked over connected roofs to get around and climbed into homes from a hole in the ceiling.

The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in Ankara exhibits finds from the Çatalhöyük excavation, including female figurines and murals. In Konya, visitors can learn about life in the Seljuk empire at the museum there. There is also a Panorama Museum which offers interactive educational activities before attending a Whirling Dervish show. Archaeologists are sometimes present at Çatalhöyük during summer months for visitors to watch their work. This is an incredible

Switch Things Up At The Tropical Butterfly Garden

Konya's Tropical Butterfly Garden is a must-see for those looking to switch things up from the usual mosques and museums. Located 25 minutes outside of the city center, this award-winning butterfly garden is the largest in Europe and home to an estimated 10,000 butterflies of over 45 different species. The building itself is one of the longest butterfly flying fields in Europe, with year-round tropical temperatures and exotic plants. Perfect for younger kids who have had enough mosques and museums, visitors can admire beautiful butterflies while learning more about Rumi and Turkish culture.

The Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden offers a unique experience that can't be found anywhere else in Turkey. It's an ideal spot for those with extra time or traveling with kids, as it provides a fun and educational activity that everyone can enjoy. Visitors will be able to observe butterflies up close as they flutter around the lush gardens filled with vibrant colors and fragrances. With its stunning landscape and diverse wildlife, Konya

Visit the Sahib-i Ata Külliyesi

The Sahib-i Ata Külliyesi is an impressive religious complex located in Turkey. Built between 1258 and 1283, it consists of a mosque, dervish lodge, türbe, and baths. The grandly ornate portal gate and the mosque interior are decorated with beautiful artwork. The Sirçalı Medrese was built in 1242 and features some stunning tiled decoration on its interior walls as well as an ornate stalactite portal. It also houses a collection of Islamic tombstones and Hittite funerary urns.

The Aziziye Mosque is another highlight of the complex, showcasing Ottoman art with decorative calligraphy and detailed ceramic tiles. The interior and exterior are decorated in shades of green, blue and gold which creates a spectacular sight for visitors to enjoy for free. However, it should be noted that the complex may be closed for prayer at times during the day.

Explore the Village of Sille

Sille Subaşı is a small village located in a narrow valley near Konya, Turkey. It was inhabited by Greeks for over 800 years, living peacefully alongside the Turks due to Jalal al-Din Muhammad Rumi. The village is now a historical site and open to tourists, offering an opportunity to explore its picturesque streets and learn more about its history. Sille is a former Ottoman-Greek settlement located 10 kilometers northwest of Konya.

The village is home to two Byzantine churches, St. Helena's Church and the Küçük Kilise (small church), which now functions as a museum dedicated to clocks and other timepieces. Sille's streets are lined with wooden-beamed houses and the cliff ridge has ancient cave dwellings that offer visitors an insight into the past. Visitors can also explore the nearby ruins of an old castle, or take part in traditional activities such as olive oil production or beekeeping. There are also plenty of

Getting to Sille

Getting to Sille is easy and convenient. Take Bus Number 64 from north of Alaaddin Hill and you'll be there in 25 minutes for around 3 TL. Pay with a contactless credit card for the most accurate fare. Once you arrive, you'll find yourself in a former Ottoman-Greek settlement located 10 kilometers northwest of Konya. The village is home to two Byzantine churches, St. Helena's Church and the Küçük Kilise (small church). Its streets are lined with wooden-beamed houses and the cliff ridge features ancient cave dwellings.

Sille is an interesting place to explore, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history and culture. There are plenty of things to do here, from visiting the churches to exploring the cave dwellings or simply taking a stroll through the streets admiring the traditional architecture. Whether you're looking for a day trip or just want to get away from it all, Sille is definitely worth checking out!

Sille: a village erbuilt for tourism

Sille is a village in Konya, Turkey that has been rebuilt for tourism, but appears to be largely deserted. The artificial lake at the top of the village only opens at 2pm and there is no hiking trail leading down to the village. During Ramadan, the village was empty of people and full of kitsch shops, cafés and restaurants with no tourists. The historic site has been overrun with concrete and tourist constructions.

Sille Subaşı is a small village located near Konya that was inhabited by Greeks for over 800 years and had a peaceful relationship with the Turks due to Jalal al-Din Muhammad Rumi. Now a historical site, tourists can visit the museum and explore the picturesque village. There are many interesting sites to see such as old churches, mosques, tombs, fountains and other monuments from different eras. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine in one of the local restaurants or take part in activities such as horse

The beautiful museum of Sille

The Sille Museum is a beautiful and well-made museum that presents the history of the region and local craftsmanship. It is located in the small village of Sille Subaşı, near Konya, Turkey. This village has been inhabited by Greeks for over 800 years and was known for its peace and harmony due to Jalal al-Din Muhammad Rumi. The museum itself is a testament to this rich cultural heritage, with displays of traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, woodworking, and more.

Visiting the Sille Museum is an experience like no other. The village itself is incredibly picturesque with its church and landscapes. A cup of tea at the only open café in the village led to discovering this magnificent museum. Inside, visitors can explore various exhibits that show off the culture and history of the area through artifacts from different eras. There are also interactive activities such as workshops where visitors can learn about traditional crafts or even try their hand at making

Hiking from Sille to Konya

The hike from Sille to Konya was an amazing experience. We started the journey by visiting an old cemetery in Sille with Ottoman tombs. It was a great way to learn about the history of the area and appreciate its beauty. After that, we continued our hike and eventually reached a viewpoint that allowed us to have a bird's eye view of Konya before finding a bus back to the city.

On our way back, we passed through Beyşehir National Park which is located near Konya. This park is home to 16 species of freshwater fish, 153 species of water birds, amphibians and reptiles. It also offers plenty of outdoor activities such as trekking, mountain biking and hiking, as well as a short boat ride on the lake. Picnic spots and campsites are also available for those who want to spend some time in nature. All in all, it was an unforgettable experience that I would recommend to anyone looking for an adventure!

Where to Stay in Konya for Sightseeing

Konya is a great destination for sightseeing, offering a variety of attractions to explore. For those looking for luxury accommodation, the Hilton Garden Inn Konya and Hich Hotel Konya are two excellent options. Both offer comfortable rooms with modern amenities and great service.

The Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Konya is another great choice, featuring an indoor pool, Turkish bath facilities, a gym and an included breakfast. For those looking for something more budget-friendly, the Konya Dervish Otel is a cozy guesthouse with good-sized rooms in an old Ottoman house. It also includes breakfast and has a convenient location near the Mevlana Museum.

When it comes to sightseeing in Konya, there are plenty of places to visit. Aksehir is best for religious sites, monuments and gardens; Beysehir is best for religious sites, water bodies and monuments; Seydisehir is best for

Konya: things to do around the city

Konya is a great destination for those looking to explore the outdoors. Two hours away from the city lies Tüz Lake, known for its unique pink colour due to algae. In spring, visitors can also spot pink flamingos in the area. Another interesting place to visit is Mekelake, a lake located in a crater with unique landscapes. Unfortunately, no tours or public transport go to these places, so having a car is necessary for the excursions.

For those interested in culture and history, Konya offers plenty of attractions as well. The Mevlana Museum is one of the most popular sites in the city and it houses Mevlana's grave. Audio-guides are available to learn more about his life and teachings. Admission to the site is free and it offers a tranquil atmosphere that makes it perfect for contemplation and reflection. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities or cultural experiences, Konya has something for everyone!