Konya Travel Guide 2026: Everything You Need to Know
The spiritual heart of Turkey, home to the great Sufi poet Rumi and the mystical whirling dervishes.
Why Visit Konya?
- Mevlana Museum - Rumi's mausoleum
- Witness authentic whirling dervish ceremonies
- Deep Seljuk history and architecture
- Important pilgrimage destination
- Gateway to authentic Anatolian culture
Top Attractions in Konya
Mevlana Museum
Rumi's tomb and the spiritual heart of Sufism
Alaeddin Mosque
Magnificent 13th-century Seljuk mosque on a hill
Karatay Medrese
Stunning Seljuk tilework museum
Ince Minare Museum
Beautiful stone carving museum
Sille
Ancient Christian village with rock churches
Whirling Dervish Ceremony
Mystical Sema ritual at Cultural Center
Best Time to Visit Konya
Spring
April-May: Pleasant weather for sightseeing
Autumn
September-October: Comfortable temperatures
Summer
June-August: Very hot on the plains
Winter
December: Special Rumi commemorations on Dec 17
Local Tips & Advice
- Attend a Sema ceremony on Saturday evenings
- Visit Mevlana Museum early to avoid crowds
- Konya is conservative - dress modestly
- Try etli ekmek - Konya's signature dish
- December 17 is Rumi's wedding night - special events
What to Eat in Konya
- Etli ekmek - long thin meat flatbread
- Mevlana şekeri - special candy
- Bamya çorbası - okra soup
- Fırın kebabı - oven-roasted lamb
- Konya pide
Neighborhoods to Explore
- Mevlana District: Around the famous museum
- Alaeddin Hill: Historic Seljuk center
- City Center: Modern shopping and dining
Getting Around
Konya has various transportation options to help you explore. Consider purchasing a local transit card for convenience, and don't hesitate to walk - many attractions are best discovered on foot.
Where to Stay
Konya offers accommodation for every budget:
- Luxury: 5-star hotels with premium amenities
- Mid-range: Comfortable hotels and boutique stays
- Budget: Hostels and guesthouses for backpackers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Konya?
The best times to visit Konya are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller.
How many days do I need in Konya?
We recommend 3-5 days to explore Konya's main attractions comfortably, though you could spend longer discovering hidden gems.
Is Konya safe for tourists?
Konya is generally safe for tourists. As with any destination, stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
What is Konya known for?
The spiritual heart of Turkey, home to the great Sufi poet Rumi and the mystical whirling dervishes.
What food should I try in Konya?
Don't miss local specialties like Etli ekmek - long thin meat flatbread, Mevlana şekeri - special candy, Bamya çorbası - okra soup when visiting Konya.
Konya Travel Guide 2026 - Last updated: January 2026
