Crafting Your Journey: Konya

Maximizing Your Visit

Konya’s attractions mainly focus on the historical core. Allocate ample time for exploration on foot. Prioritize the Mevlana Museum and Alaaddin Hill.

Balance cultural exploration with enjoying local cuisine. Consider booking experiences for a dive into specific interests.

Suggested Activities

Morning visits to Mevlana Museum for fewer crowds.
Lunch at a traditional Etli Ekmek restaurant.
Afternoon exploration of historical mosques and medreses.

Day 1: Spiritual Heart & Ancient Tales

Dedicate your first day to Konya’s profound historical and spiritual sites, mainly on foot.

Morning: Mevlana's Legacy

Begin at the Mevlana Museum, the former lodge of the whirling dervishes and Mevlana Rumi's tomb. This site is the spiritual core of Konya.

Must-See

Mevlana Museum: Immerse yourself in Sufi mysticism.
Explore the museum's collections and serene gardens.
Walk around the surrounding historical district.
Consider a guided tour for understanding.

Note: The museum can be very busy, arrive early if possible.

Afternoon: Alaaddin Hill & Medreses

Proceed to Alaaddin Hill, an ancient mound topped by the Alaaddin Mosque. From here, explore nearby historical schools.

Cultural Landmarks

Enjoy the views from Alaaddin Hill.
Visit the impressive Alaaddin Mosque.
Discover Karatay Medrese and İnce Minareli Medrese.

Evening: Bazaar & Local Flavors

Wander through the Bedesten Çarşısı (Bazaar) for local goods, then savor an authentic Konya dinner.

Culinary Journey

Explore the Bedesten Bazaar.
Try Etli Ekmek at a local restaurant.
Consider Fırın Kebabı for a hearty meal.
Sample local cheeses or pastries.

Optional: Whirling Dervishes

If available, attend a Whirling Dervish (Sema) performance. These are not always daily, check schedules in advance.

Spiritual Spectacle

Experience the unique Mevlevi ritual.
Confirm performance dates and times.
Purchase tickets beforehand if needed.
Look for official cultural centers offering performances.

Day 1 Summary

Morning:

Mevlana Museum

Afternoon:

Alaaddin Hill, Medreses

Evening:

Bedesten Bazaar, Local Dining

First Day Highlight

This day focuses on Konya's spiritual depth and historical richness.

Day 2: Modernity & Green Spaces

Explore Konya's contemporary side, green areas, or venture slightly outside the city.

Morning: Contemporary Konya

Visit the Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden, a modern and engaging attraction suitable for all ages.

Urban Wonders

Marvel at diverse butterfly species in a tropical habitat.
Discover various plant species.
Accessible by public transport or taxi.
Explore nearby shopping malls like Kent Plaza.

Tip: Combine with a visit to the Japanese Park nearby.

Afternoon: Beyşehir Lake or Parks

Choose between a relaxing visit to Beyşehir Lake or enjoying Konya's city parks.

Nature & Recreation

Beyşehir Lake offers natural beauty and a historical mosque.
Japanese Park presents tranquil gardens for relaxation.
Enjoy a boat trip on the lake.
Stroll through urban green spaces.

Evening: Cultural Events or Relaxation

Consider attending a cultural event, exploring more dining options, or simply relaxing at your accommodation.

Leisure Time

Check for local concerts or performances.
Revisit a favorite eatery or try a new one.
Enjoy the amenities at your lodging.

Additional Pursuits

Read about Konya's rich history.
Explore local craft shops.
Engage with local community initiatives.

Tip: Use GetYourGuide to find available local experiences and tours for this day.

Day 2 Summary

Your second day offers a mix of modern attractions, natural escapes, or historical depths beyond the city core.

Flexible Choices

Tropical Butterfly Garden.
Beyşehir Lake.
Çatalhöyük (alternative historical trip).
Car rental or organized tours for outer sites.

Culinary Note

Explore more of Konya's diverse culinary offerings throughout your day.

Food Exploration

Try Arabaşı Çorbası if it's winter.
Sample Mevlana Böreği for a snack.
Explore local non-alcoholic beverages like Ayran.
Enjoy a traditional Turkish dessert.

Extended Exploration

These suggestions enable customization to match your interests and pace.

Crafting Your Konya Journey