Top things to do in Konya
Konya combines spiritual heritage with remarkable Seljuk monuments.
- Mevlana Museum — The shrine of Rumi (Mevlana), with its turquoise-tiled dome, manuscripts and former dervish lodge.
- Whirling dervish ceremonies — Performances of the sema ceremony are held at the Mevlana Culture Centre; ask locally about current schedules.
- Alaeddin Hill and Mosque — A park on the site of the old citadel, crowned by a historic Seljuk mosque.
- Karatay Madrasa — A 13th-century theological school, now a museum of beautiful Seljuk tiles.
- İnce Minareli Madrasa — Famous for its intricately carved stone portal, housing a museum of stone and wood art.
- Sille — A historic village a short drive from the city, with old stone houses and a Byzantine-era church.
- Çatalhöyük — A UNESCO-listed Neolithic settlement about an hour south-east of Konya.
Best time to visit Konya
Konya has a continental steppe climate with hot, dry summers and cold winters. Spring, from April to June, and autumn, in September and October, are the most pleasant times to visit, with warm days and cool evenings ideal for walking between the city’s monuments.
Summer is hot and sunny but dry, while winter is cold, sometimes snowy. December brings the Şeb-i Arus commemoration of Rumi’s death, a long-established event centred on 17 December with special sema ceremonies, when the city is busy and accommodation should be booked well ahead.
Getting from the airport
Konya Airport lies about 15 km north-east of the city centre, and the drive usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic.
Airport shuttle buses connect with flights and run into the city, and taxis wait outside the terminal. Many hotels arrange transfers on request. Car hire is also available, which is useful for day trips to Çatalhöyük, Sille and other sites around the region. Within the city, trams and buses link the centre with the main districts.
Where to stay
Most visitors stay in the historic centre, close to the main sights.
- Mevlana area — Hotels within walking distance of the Mevlana Museum and old bazaar; ideal for first-time visitors.
- Alaeddin Hill area — Central and convenient for the madrasas, tram and restaurants.
- Selçuklu district — Modern hotels, shopping centres and business facilities north of the centre.
Travel tips
- Money: Cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops; carry some lira in cash for markets and small purchases.
- Getting around: The tram links the centre with other districts, and taxis are easy to find.
- Etiquette: Konya is a conservative city; dress modestly, especially at the Mevlana Museum and mosques, where women should cover their hair.
- Food: Try local specialities such as etli ekmek, a long thin flatbread topped with minced meat, and fırın kebabı.
- Language: Turkish is the main language and English is limited, so a translation app is useful.
Frequently asked questions
Which airport serves Konya?
Konya Airport (KYA), about 15 km north-east of the city centre.
How do I get from the airport to the city centre?
Take an airport shuttle bus, a taxi or a hotel transfer; the drive takes around 20 to 30 minutes.
What currency is used in Konya?
The Turkish lira (TRY).
Do I need a visa to visit Türkiye?
Entry requirements depend on your nationality and change from time to time. Check RwandAir’s travel requirements tool or the official government website before you travel.
When is the best time to visit Konya?
April to June and September to October, or December for the Şeb-i Arus commemoration.
Where can I see the whirling dervishes in Konya?
Sema ceremonies are performed at the Mevlana Culture Centre; check current schedules locally, as they vary through the year.
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