Konya

Konya was the capital of the Seljuk Turks in the 12th and 13th centuries, and it is the city of Rumi, the 13th-century poet and mystic. Today it is a pilgrimage destination for people from across the Muslim world, a center of Seljuk architecture and the gateway to Çatalhöyük, one of the oldest known settlements in the world. It is more conservative than the coast, and quieter, which is part of its appeal.

Konya at a glance

What to see

Mevlana Museum

The green-tiled mausoleum of Rumi is Konya’s best-known building. It is attached to a former dervish lodge, which now holds manuscripts of his works and objects connected to Sufi mysticism. It is a place of pilgrimage, so keep voices low, dress modestly and expect crowds, especially on holidays and weekends. Go early.

Sema ceremonies and Şeb-i Arûs

The Mevlevi Sema, the ritual of the whirling dervishes, is on UNESCO’s intangible heritage list. It is a religious ceremony rather than a show, and performances are often held at the Mevlana Cultural Centre. The anniversary of Rumi’s death, Şeb-i Arûs, is marked in December, with the main events around 17 December. Check the current program and book ahead.

Seljuk heritage

The Alaeddin Hill has the Alaeddin Mosque, dated to 1221 under Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat, with the remains of the Seljuk palace beside it, and nearby are the citadel, the Sungur Bey Mosque and tomb and the Hüdavend Hatun Mausoleum, built in 1312.

Çatalhöyük

Çatalhöyük is a Neolithic settlement on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2012, and the first site in the world known to have a city plan depicted in wall paintings. Its mud-brick houses and finds make it important for the history of early towns. Check visiting arrangements before you go, since a guide helps.

Eating in Konya

Konya’s specialties are etli ekmek, a thin, long meat flatbread, and fırın kebabı, slow-roasted lamb from a wood oven. Alcohol is hard to find in many restaurants, which suits the city’s character. See our food guide.

A day in Konya (suggested plan)

• Morning. The Mevlana Museum when it opens.
• Midday. Etli ekmek for lunch.
• Afternoon. Alaeddin Hill and the Seljuk monuments.
• Optional second day. Çatalhöyük, by car or tour.

When to go

Konya has a continental climate: hot, dry summers and cold winters, with January lows below freezing. Spring and autumn are the best seasons, and December is the month for the Şeb-i Arûs commemoration, if you want to see it.

Source: Turkish State Meteorological Service (MGM), Konya station, 1927 to 2025.

Getting there and around

Konya is on the high-speed train route from Ankara and Istanbul, and it has an airport and long-distance bus links. The main sights are in the center and are reachable on foot or by tram. See our getting around guide.

Plan the wider trip

Konya fits between Ankara and Cappadocia. See our culture and etiquette guide and itineraries guide.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Konya famous?

It was the Seljuk capital and is the city of Rumi. The Mevlana Museum is the main sight.

How many days do I need in Konya?

One day covers the main sights. A second day allows Çatalhöyük.

What is the Sema?

A Mevlevi ritual, often called the whirling dervishes, listed by UNESCO as intangible heritage. It is a religious ceremony.

Is Çatalhöyük a UNESCO site?

Yes, since 2012.

What should I wear in Konya?

Dress modestly. The city is conservative, and the Mevlana Museum is a place of pilgrimage.

When is Şeb-i Arûs?

In December, with the main events around 17 December. Check the current program.

Sources: UNESCO, Go Türkiye, MGM. Updated October 2026.