KONYA
Konya is the spiritual heart of Turkey, a city where the profound teachings of the 13th-century mystic Rumi continue to echo. It was the capital of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum, leaving a breathtaking legacy of stunning Seljuk architecture.
This ancient city, one of the oldest settlements in the world, is the birthplace of the Whirling Dervishes‘ Sema ceremony. It’s a land of deep conservative tradition, rich history, and modern university life, offering a unique blend of culture.
Most Popular Attractions
The Heart of Rumi & Sufism:
Mevlana Museum (Rumi’s Tomb): The most famous attraction, housing the mausoleum of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, a revered Sufi mystic and poet, identifiable by its iconic fluted turquoise dome.
Mevlana Cultural Center: The venue for the official Sema Ceremony (Whirling Dervish performance), a spiritual ritual held weekly that is central to the Mevlevi Order.
Shams-i Tabrizi Mosque and Tomb: The resting place of Rumi’s spiritual mentor, a key figure in the development of Sufism.
Seljuk Masterpieces & City Core:
Alaeddin Mosque (Alaaddin Camii): One of the oldest and largest Seljuk mosques, sitting atop the central Alaaddin Hill, which offers panoramic city views and is the former site of a citadel.
Karatay Madrasa Museum: A former 13th-century theological school famous for its exquisite Seljuk tile work, now a museum of ceramics.
İnce Minaret Madrasa (Museum of Stone and Woodwork): A stunning 13th-century Seljuk school known for its ornate stone-carved portal and the remains of its uniquely tall, thin minaret.
Sırçalı Madrasa: A historic madrasa noted for its beautiful, intricate tile decorations.
Sahip Ata Complex (Mosque & Tomb): An important 13th-century complex featuring a mosque, tomb, and hamam (bathhouse), showcasing Seljuk and Ottoman architecture.
Grand Mosques of Konya:
Selimiye Mosque: A large Ottoman-era mosque built near the Mevlana Museum by Sultan Selim II, contrasting with the Seljuk style.
Aziziye Mosque: A unique Ottoman mosque featuring prominent Baroque influences and large windows.
Kapu Mosque: A beautiful mosque in the old city, known for its Ottoman architectural style and multiple domes.
History and Culture Museums:
Konya Archaeological Museum: Houses a significant collection of artifacts from the Neolithic, Roman, and Byzantine periods, including a notable Roman sarcophagus.
Konyanuma Panorama Museum: A panorama museum offering a 360-degree view depicting Konya during the Seljuk era.
Konya Ethnography Museum: Showcases the local culture, customs, and traditional Anatolian artifacts.
Koyunoğlu Museum: A historic house museum and library that provides a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and local history of Konya.
Parks & Modern Sites:
Kültür Park: A large, popular park near Alaaddin Hill, perfect for relaxation and featuring a magical fountain light show in the evening.
Konya Science Center: Turkey’s first interactive science center with hands-on exhibits and an impressive planetarium.
Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden: Europe’s largest butterfly sanctuary, housing thousands of butterflies in a lush tropical habitat.
Kyoto Japanese Park: A peaceful, beautifully landscaped park built to honor the friendship with Kyoto, Japan.
Archaeological Sites & Outskirts:
Çatalhöyük: A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s oldest known Neolithic settlements, dating back 9,000 years.
Sille Village: A historic village just outside Konya, known for its ancient Greek Orthodox heritage, cave churches, and traditional stone houses, notably the Hagia Eleni Church.
Eflatunpınar Hittite Spring Sanctuary: An ancient Hittite water monument located outside the city, a testament to early Anatolian civilization.
Meram Bağları (Meram Gardens): A historic, picturesque recreational area outside the city center, once known for its lush vineyards and cool air.
Natural Wonders & Lakes:
Lake Tuz (Tuz Gölü): Turkey’s second-largest lake, famous for its unique pink color during the summer months due to algae and being a major salt source.
Lake Beyşehir: The largest freshwater lake in Turkey, part of a national park and an important natural habitat.
Meke Lake (Meke Gölü): A crater lake with small islands in the center, formed by a volcanic explosion, offering a striking natural landscape.
Activities & Experiences
Witness the Sema Ceremony: Experience the transcendent, whirling ritual of the Mevlevi Order (Whirling Dervishes) at the Mevlana Cultural Centre. The ceremony is a spiritual journey and form of prayer, typically held on Saturday evenings.
Explore the Mevlana Museum: Visit the former lodge and current final resting place of the Persian poet, Sufi mystic, and theologian Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi (Mevlana). The iconic green dome is a symbol of the city.
Step Back in Time at Çatalhöyük: Take a day trip to the ancient Neolithic settlement of Çatalhöyük, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back over 9,000 years, offering a fascinating glimpse into one of the world’s oldest human communities.
Marvel at Seljuk Tilework: Explore the Karatay Madrasa Tile Works Museum, housed in a beautiful 13th-century theological school, to see stunning examples of Seljuk-era ceramic art and intricate mosaics.
Visit Alaeddin Hill and Mosque: Walk up the small, central, artificial hill Alaeddin Tepesi, which provides a great view of the city, and visit the historical Alaeddin Mosque, one of the oldest and most significant mosques in Turkey.
Wander the Bedesten Bazaar: Get lost in the narrow, historic lanes of the Bedesten Çarşısı, a restored Ottoman-era covered market, to shop for hand-knotted prayer beads, copper goods, spices, and other traditional Turkish souvenirs.
See the Ince Minare Museum: Admire the highly decorated and elaborately carved entrance portal of the Ince Minare Madrasa (Stone and Wood Works Museum), another exquisite example of Seljuk architecture.
Taste Konya’s Unique Cuisine: Sample local specialties like Etli Ekmek, a long, thin flatbread topped with minced meat (often called Konya’s pizza), and the sweet Mevlana Şekeri (a hard, sugary candy).
Escape to Sille Village: Take a short trip to the nearby ancient village of Sille Subaşı, which has a unique mix of Greek and Ottoman heritage. Explore its old stone houses, visit the rock-carved Aya Eleni Church, and relax by the creekside cafés.
Discover Ancient Artifacts: Browse the collection at the Konya Archeological Museum, home to a variety of artifacts from the Neolithic to the Roman periods, including the famous Hercules Sarcophagus.
Relax in the Tropical Butterfly Garden: Enjoy a peaceful change of pace at the Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden, an expansive indoor ecosystem featuring hundreds of species of colorful butterflies from around the world.
Local Tips & Transport
Walking is Best in the Center: Most of the major historic and spiritual sites—the Mevlana Museum, Alaeddin Hill, and the main madrasas—are clustered together in the city center, making it easily explorable on foot.
Public Transport: Konya has a functional public transport system, primarily consisting of trams and buses.
- Trams: Two tram lines (Line 1 & 2) are useful for connecting the city center (around Alaeddin Hill) with other points, including the main bus terminal (Otobüs Terminali).
- KonyaKart: You’ll need a KonyaKart (a rechargeable card) to use the public trams and buses, as cash is not accepted. These can be purchased and topped up at major stops and kiosks.
- Dolmuş: Dolmuş (shared minibuses) operate on fixed routes and are a fast, economical way to travel locally, often accepting cash.
High-Speed Train (YHT): For travel to and from other major Turkish cities like Ankara and Istanbul, the Yüksek Hızlı Tren (YHT) high-speed rail service is an excellent choice—it’s fast, comfortable, and generally more efficient than taking a bus. Tickets should be booked in advance, especially during peak season.
From the Airport: Konya Airport (KYA) is served by Havaş shuttle buses that run to the city center, as well as taxis and rental cars.
The Spiritual Heart of Turkey: Konya is a deeply conservative and religious city, the birthplace of the Whirling Dervishes and the home of Rumi. Visitors should dress modestly out of respect, especially when visiting mosques and religious sites. Women should carry a scarf to cover their hair before entering a mosque.
Sema Ceremony Etiquette: The Whirling Dervish ceremony (Sema) is a spiritual event, not a performance. Maintain a respectful, silent demeanor throughout the ceremony. Photography is often restricted or forbidden during the main event.
Dining Culture: Turkish eating habits are generally social, and meal times are flexible. As a local specialty, be sure to try Tirit (a hearty dish with bread soaked in broth, meat, and yogurt) in addition to Etli Ekmek.
Authentic Bazaar Shopping: The Bedesten Çarşısı is known for being less insistent than bazaars in major tourist hubs like Istanbul. Take your time, enjoy a Turkish tea (çay), and feel free to haggle respectfully for a good deal on textiles or traditional handicrafts.
Hidden Gems:
- Shams Tabrizi Mosque and Tomb: This is the believed final resting place of Rumi’s spiritual mentor, Shams Tabrizi. It is a quiet, serene spot for reflection.
- Kilistra Ancient City: A fascinating day trip from Konya, this site is often referred to as a “mini Cappadocia” due to its rock-cut dwellings, churches, and cisterns carved into the hillside.
- The Meram District: A picturesque neighborhood known for its lush green gardens (Meram Bağları), historic teahouses, and water channels—a popular spot for locals to relax, especially during the hot summer months.
Top Restaurants
Ali Baba Fırın Kebap [$15-$25] – A long-standing, no-frills local spot known almost exclusively for its superb fırın kebabı (slow-cooked lamb from a stone oven), served simply over flatbread with raw onion.
Kebapçı Dedeler 1929 [$15-$25] – Operating since 1929, this restaurant is a historical institution famous for its traditional oven kebabs, a must-try for authentic Konya flavor.
Halk Etliekmek [$10-$20] – Highly popular among locals, this spot is essential for trying etli ekmek, a long, thin flatbread topped with minced meat, considered the signature dish of Konya.
Celalbey Etliekmek Sube 2 1985 [$10-$20] – Known for its high-quality etli ekmek and especially the unique Recai Böreği, a local variation of pide topped with finely chopped meat and Konya’s signature cheese.
Havzan Etliekmek 1 [$10-$20] – Often cited as one of the most iconic places for etli ekmek in the world, this is a local favorite that embodies the quintessential Konya street food experience.
MİTHAT TİRİT [$15-$25] – A cozy cafe tucked away on a quiet side street since 1988, famous for serving only one main dish, the traditional tirit (bread soaked in broth, topped with meat, yogurt, and butter).
Kofteci Sofu [$10-$20] – A traditional, small, family-owned restaurant in the industrial area that has been serving delicious lamb meatballs (köfte) since 1952.
Kuzucu Ali [$20-$35] – Highly regarded for its expertly prepared kuzu tandır (lamb tandoori) and saç kavurma (stir-fried meat), offering a focus on tender, slow-cooked lamb dishes.
Lokanta Kabakçı Ali [$15-$25] – A spot known for serving authentic and traditional Konya cuisine, particularly lauded for its homemade, rustic dishes that reflect the region’s culinary heritage.
Somatçı Fihi Ma Fih Restaurant [$20-$35] – Located near the Mevlana Museum, this restaurant focuses on traditional Seljuk and Ottoman palace cuisine, offering dishes beyond the standard kebabs, like Tutmaç Çorbası (yogurt and meat soup).
Cemo Restaurant [$15-$25] – Offers an authentic Turkish dining experience with a strong focus on traditional Konya Cuisine, popular for both its etliekmek and other local specialties.
Hacı Şükrü [$20-$35] – A historical restaurant with over 100 years of service, considered one of the best places to taste Konya’s famous fırın kebabı, with melt-in-your-mouth tender lamb.
Tarihi Tiritçi Mithat [$15-$25] – Located in the backstreets, this local gem is famed for its single specialty, the rich and flavorful tirit, and often closes early when they run out.
Nezih Konya Mutfağı [$15-$25] – Known for offering a wide array of authentic Turkish and Konya dishes like bamya çorbası (okra soup) and Mevlana pide, in a warm and welcoming ambience.
Mevlevi Sofrası Restaurant [$15-$25] – Offers a variety of traditional Turkish cuisine near the Mevlana Museum, praised for its fine setting and menu of regional dishes.
Kule Sini Restaurant [$35-$60] – Located at the top of Konya’s towering skyscraper, Kule Plaza, this restaurant offers stunning panoramic city views alongside a diverse menu that includes local and international dishes.
Lokmahane [$25-$40] – Highly recommended for its care for Konya’s traditional food and culture, reflected in its beautiful interior and memorable dining experience with a historical twist.
SULTAN SOMATI & THE TABLE OF SULTAN [$35-$60] – Offers a more upscale take on traditional cuisine, moving beyond the simple, rustic feel of most local etli ekmek shops for a special occasion.
Taka Balık (Fish) [$30-$50] – A renowned destination for fresh seafood lovers in Selçuklu, providing a different culinary option in the meat-centric Konya, popular with locals seeking quality fish dishes.
Cemo Etliekmek – Selçuklu [$10-$20] – Although a traditional local spot, the widespread recognition and consistent quality for the iconic etli ekmek make it a culturally essential and unique experience for visitors.
MİTHAT TİRİT [$15-$25] – The intensely focused menu on just one exquisite traditional dish, the tirit, makes dining here a uniquely local and authentic experience.
Şifa Restaurant [$20-$35] – Offers an unpretentious but highly-regarded dining experience with a focus on traditional Turkish cuisine, known for its variety of grilled meats, soups, and excellent Doner kebab.
MutfakS Restaurant [$15-$30] – Known for its rich flavors of traditional Turkish cuisine, popular for its diverse menu and often highlighted for its Turkish breakfast spread.
Taka Restaurant [$20-$35] – A popular dining spot with a diverse menu of classic Turkish dishes like lahmacun and kuzu tandır, offered at a reasonable price and known for its warm atmosphere.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Dedeman Konya Roof Bar & Restoran (On8): Located on the 18th floor of the Dedeman Konya hotel, this venue offers a panoramic view of the city. It provides a more upscale and sophisticated atmosphere, suitable for enjoying classic cocktails and a selection of international and Turkish cuisine, often with live music.
Mr. Frog Pub Bistro: A highly-rated pub bistro in the Selçuklu district, known for its inviting atmosphere, good food, and diverse drink selection. It’s considered one of the most popular venues for locals looking for a pub experience.
İrish pub: Found in the Selçuklu area, this bar offers a blend of traditional Irish pub charm and local flavors, making it a cozy spot for unwinding with a drink.
X Side Pub: A lively nightlife hotspot located in the Selçuklu district, offering a vibrant ambiance and a good selection of drinks in a setting popular with younger crowds. There is also a similarly named Xside Pub in the Meram district.
Dukas Pub: A local pub offering a comfortable and social environment for drinks, typically found in the central areas of Konya.
Cafe Extrablatt: Situated in Selçuklu, this popular spot successfully blends a cozy café feel with a vibrant pub atmosphere, serving as a versatile location for daytime relaxation and evening drinks.
Lastrada Cafe Restoran Bar: Located in the Selçuklu district, this venue offers a mix of café, restaurant, and bar, providing a relaxed spot for dining and enjoying pub culture.
LİMAN BAR VE RESTAURANT: A bar and restaurant that offers a place to socialize over drinks and food, providing a generally welcoming atmosphere.
Nazar Birahanesi: Found in the local scene, this bar offers a vibrant atmosphere and a mix of beverages, catering to local socializing and a more traditional “birahanesi” (beer house) style.
Fiskos Bar: Located in Selçuklu, this bar is known for its lively atmosphere, where friendly locals and good drinks create a fun night out.
Star Birahanesi: A local favorite offering a traditional “birahanesi” experience with a unique local flavor and a welcoming atmosphere.
Atçeken Şahane Bar: Located in the Meram district, this bar is part of the local nightlife scene, offering drinks, music, and a lively atmosphere for socializing.
Sarmaşik Bar Kuşcular: Found in the Meram district, this spot offers a vibrant atmosphere and is a local favorite for its refreshing drinks.
Divane Lounge: While also known for Turkish cuisine in the Selçuklu area, this venue can serve as a relaxed spot for drinks and socializing in a modern setting.
Jacke Bar: Situated in the Selçuklu district, this bar is known for its cozy ambiance and friendly service, perfect for unwinding.
Club Inferno Konya: Widely regarded as one of the main and most famous nightclubs in Konya, located in the Selçuklu district, specifically near the Grand Hotel Konya. It features a high-energy dance floor, DJ performances, and light shows, playing a mix of international and Turkish hits.
Şımarık Night Club: A lively night club offering a typical club experience with music and dancing, contributing to the city’s nightlife scene.
Grand maksim gazinosu: A long-standing entertainment venue in Konya, often offering a combination of dinner, live Turkish music performances (sometimes traditional or popular Turkish music), and a more formal atmosphere for an evening out.
Özgür Night Club: One of the known nightlife spots, offering music and a dance floor for those looking to experience the local club scene.
Karbeyaz + Plus Yeni Nesil Gazino: A “New Generation Gazino” that modernizes the traditional Turkish entertainment hall concept, likely offering dining, live music, and a lively environment for dancing and socializing.
Curcuna Max: A club known for its energetic atmosphere and late-night offerings in the local nightlife circuit.
Harem Gazinosu: Another traditional-style gazino in Konya, offering a full night of entertainment which typically includes a mix of food, drinks, and live Turkish music/performances.
Jack of clubs: A centrally-located club that focuses on music and dancing, popular with a younger crowd for a night out.
Roof Club & Lotus Bar: Located within a major hotel like Grand Millennium Konya, this venue combines a stylish bar area with a more open club atmosphere, offering views and sophisticated drinks.