Konya

Turkey, Europe

Konya, steeped in history and culture, is famous for being the home of the renowned Sufi poet Rumi and the mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes. Key attractions include the impressive Mevlana Museum, showcasing Rumi's tomb, and the stunning Selimiye Mosque. The city's rich Seljuk architecture and vibrant bazaars offer a unique glimpse into Turkey's past. Konya also hosts cultural festivals throughout the year, making it a lively spot for visitors. Its mix of spirituality, history, and local cuisine creates a compelling destination.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Konya

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Konya

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Mevlana Museum

Explore the serene resting place of Rumi, a spiritual icon.

No booking required
2

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Alaeddin Mosque

Admire the stunning architecture of this historic mosque.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the Karatay Medrese

Discover Islamic art in this beautiful ancient school.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience Whirling Dervishes

Witness the mesmerizing Sufi dance performance.

Booking required
5

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ince Minaret Medrese

Explore the ornate architecture and rich history.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Sille Village

Wander through this charming village and its history.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Konya Archaeological Museum

Uncover ancient artifacts from the region's rich past.

No booking required
8

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Aziziye Mosque

Experience the beauty of Ottoman architecture in Konya.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste local cuisine at a traditional restaurant

Enjoy authentic dishes like Etli Ekmek and Tandır.

No booking required
10

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Seyh Sadreddin Konevi Tomb

Pay respects at the tomb of a famous Sufi scholar.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Relax at Meram Vineyards

Enjoy nature and wine tasting in a scenic locale.

No booking required
12

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at the Konya Bazaar

Find unique souvenirs and local handicrafts.

No booking required
13

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Mevlana Cultural Center

Engage with exhibitions on Rumi and Sufi culture.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Turkish Lira

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Turkish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Lamb

Tender meat from lamb, often grilled. (National dish)

Kebap

Grilled meat skewers, popular in Turkey.

Baklava

V

Sweet pastry filled with nuts and syrup.

Meze

VE

A variety of small dishes served as appetizers.

Turkish Delight (Lokum)

VE

Gel-like sweet made with starch and sugar.

Phrases to learn

English

Turkish

Hello

Merhaba

(Mehr-hah-bah)

Yes/No

Evet / Hayir

(Eh-vet / Hai-uhr)

Thank you

Teşekkür

(Teh-she-kyoor)

Excuse me

Affedersiniz

(Ah-feh-dehr-seen-ez)

How much?

Ne kadar?

(Neh kah-dar)