Small and Boutique Hotels in Konya

Mevlana embraces a universal philosophy rooted in profound tolerance and divine love. It is a path that leads us to the divine love within ourselves. Every time I visit, the feelings I experience are so special, they go beyond what words can express.Located in the very heart of the Anatolian plateau, Konya is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Rich in both cultural depth and spiritual generosity, it holds a unique place in the heart of Türkiye. Geographically, it is situated in Central Anatolia, surrounded by mountains, resting on a vast high plain.Since 1987, Konya has held the status of a metropolitan municipality and is now home to over 2 million people. It is also an important center of trade and industry, making it not just a spiritual capital but also a vital economic hub. Konya is a must-visit destination for cultural tours. The locals proudly say: “A capital city remains a capital forever.”The city carries the legacy of ancient civilizations, from Çatalhöyük one of the earliest human settlements in history to the eras of the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman empires.With the largest land area among Türkiye's provinces, traveling between Konya’s districts can take anywhere from minutes to hours. Some of the most well-known and frequently visited districts include Akşehir, Seydişehir, Meram, Ereğli, Selçuklu, and Sarayönü.In addition to its deep historical and cultural richness, Konya has also become a prominent city for science and congress tourism in recent years. Geographically, it offers striking natural features as well. From vast salt flats to desert-like terrain, the region also includes natural treasures such as Lake Tuz, Meke Crater Lake, and Beyşehir Lake. The city, mostly a high plain, has a few elevated spots like Alaaddin Hill, and if you travel south, you can even reach the Taurus Mountains.Konya's cuisine is another defining feature, with etli ekmek (flatbread with minced meat) being the most famous. Yet, when you think of Konya, it’s not just about the food it’s about the monumental figures who shaped both Turkish and global culture. Visiting the tombs of Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi, Shams Tabrizi, and Nasreddin Hodja is an essential part of experiencing Konya’s spirit.Recently, Konya has also drawn attention through sports, hosting Turkey’s national football matches at the modern Konya Metropolitan Stadium, bringing a new dynamic energy to the city’s already vibrant character.

Places to Eat and Drink in Konya

1- Havzan meat bread, okra soup and hairstyle should definitely be eaten

2- Carp fish is one of the delicacies to be tasted in Beyşehir district.

3- Don't miss Kabakçı Ali for Tirit!

4- If you want to eat meat bread, Cemo Etli ekmek and Havzan Etli Pide Salonu can be preferred.

5- For tea and coffee, we recommend Neşve Çay Kahve Keyfi and Meram Çamlıbel Tea Garden.

6- You can also have dessert at Şark Kadayıfçısı and Istanbul Patisserie.

7- If you are looking for a different taste for dinner, you can choose Kyoto Japanese Park. From Turkish cuisine, Hacı Şükrü Bakery and Kebab Hall (meat bread and tandoori), Kule Sini Restaurant can be preferred.

8- You should definitely try Yağsomunu with moldy cheese from Sendağlidan @sendagliyagsomunu.

9-You should eat tirit at Tiritçi Mithat.

Places to Visit in Konya

1- I think it is necessary to start from historical places first. The first place that comes to mind is of course Konya Mevlana Tomb and Konya Mevlana Museum. Konya Atatürk House Museum, Shamsi Tebrizi Tomb, Nasrettin Hodja Tomb and Konya Archeology Museum are other points to visit. We recommend that you visit Çatalhöyük ruins and go deep into history and visit the 1500-year-old Sille Village, whose importance has increased in recent years.

2- Alaaddin Hill, Alaattin Mosque and Konya Karatay Madrasa are among the other historical places to see.

3- 80 Thousand Times Alem Park should also be visited.

4- I recommend you to visit Halkapınar İvrize, see the Hittite ruins.

5- When you see the details of the crown door of the Minaret Madrasa, you inevitably want to stand there for a long time and examine it. This building, which was once a place of knowledge, is now a museum that reveals how aesthetic Seljuk art is. When you step inside, you feel as if you are listening to the stories the stone walls tell you.

6- Kilistra Ancient City is another world hidden in nature. Churches, tombs and rooms carved into the rocks. The road is a bit bumpy but definitely worth it. Reminiscent of Cappadocia, this place has its own air, quieter, calmer. It is also a great atmosphere for photography.

7-Tropical Butterfly Garden, as soon as you enter, you step into a completely different universe. Colorful butterflies, tropical plants and soft humidity everywhere.

8- Eşrefoğlu Mosque, when you enter the wooden pillared mosque, the smell of wood that comes to your nose and the engravings that catch your eye seem to teleport you to a century ago. It is very impressive both architecturally and spiritually. You cannot take your eyes off the ceiling.
9-Selimiye Mosque, right next to Mevlana Museum, has its own unique elegance. Sitting in its courtyard and taking a breather is perfect for finding inner peace, especially in this region full of Mevlana's influence. When the evening call to prayer is heard from this mosque, a completely different atmosphere envelops the place.

10-Beyşehir Lake, if you want to get away from the city and breathe by the lake, Beyşehir is a great escape route. The lake is so serene that your thoughts calm down while looking at the water. The reflection of the sun on the water is a spectacle. The fish is also fresh and delicious, I'm telling you.

11-Aziziye Mosque offers a slightly different style than the Ottoman classics with its Baroque architecture. The interior is very impressive. It is like a work of art with its light plays, colorful stained glass windows and ceiling decorations. Such detailed workmanship amazes people.