Best Backpacking Destinations in Konya, Konya, Turkey

1. Selime Cathedral

A unique, fairy chimney-style rock-cut Byzantine monastery complex with stunning views.

Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into the region's rich Christian history
Natural Surroundings: Located in the Cappadocia region, known for its unique landscapes
Photography Opportunities: Ideal spot for capturing breathtaking sunsets and landscapes

An ancient castle offering panoramic views of Konya city and its surroundings.

Historic Site: Dates back to the Seljuk period, showcasing historic architecture
City Views: Provides a bird's eye view of Konya and its surroundings
Museum Inside: Includes an archaeological museum displaying artifacts from the region

The mausoleum of Rumi and a significant center for Sufism, featuring beautiful architecture.

Spiritual Significance: A place of pilgrimage for followers of Rumi and Sufism
Historic Architecture: Features a unique blend of Seljuk, Ottoman, and Byzantine styles
Whirling Dervishes: Witness the traditional Sufi ritual of the Whirling Dervishes (Semah) during special performances

An impressive Seljuk-era madrasa with intricate tilework and a beautiful courtyard.

A Seljuk-era madrasa with a striking minaret and beautiful interior courtyard.

Architectural Marvel: An example of the Seljuks' architectural prowess
Minaret Design: Features a unique, slender minaret with intricate designs
Interior Courtyard: Boasts a beautiful, tranquil interior courtyard for reflection and relaxation

A picturesque village with fairy chimneys, underground cities, and troglodyte houses.

Natural Wonders: Features unique Cappadocian landscapes
Historical Sites: Includes underground cities, churches, and troglodyte houses
Photography Opportunities: Ideal location for capturing stunning sunsets and fairy chimneys

A beautiful Ottoman-era mosque with intricate tilework and a stunning interior.

Architectural Wonders: Showcases the Ottomans' architectural mastery
Tilework Details: Features stunning tilework and calligraphy on its walls
Interior Beauty: Boasts a beautiful, peaceful interior for reflection and prayer

An impressive, ancient city wall circuit showcasing various gates and towers.

Historical Significance: Dates back to the Seljuk period, showcasing historic architecture
City Views: Provides a panoramic view of Konya and its surroundings
Photography Opportunities: Ideal spot for capturing the city's architecture and landscapes

A historic, Seljuk-era caravanserai converted into a shopping center.

Architectural Marvel: An example of the Seljuks' architectural prowess
Shopping Experience: Offers a unique shopping experience in a historic setting
Cultural Exchange: Provides an opportunity for cultural exchange with local vendors

A stunning, Seljuk-era mausoleum featuring intricate tilework and beautiful architecture.

Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into the region's rich Christian history
Architectural Wonders: Showcases the Seljuks' architectural mastery
Tilework Details: Features stunning tilework and calligraphy on its walls

An ancient Hittite site with a temple, royal palace, and various artifacts.

Historical Significance: Provides insights into the region's ancient Hittite civilization
Archaeological Findings: Includes a royal palace, temple, and various artifacts
Photography Opportunities: Ideal location for capturing ancient structures and landscapes

A series of Byzantine mosaics featuring the famous Karagöz and Hacivat characters.

Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into the region's rich Byzantine heritage
Artistic Value: Features beautiful and intricate mosaics
Cultural Insights: Provides insights into the Karagöz and Hacivat folklore

An archaeological site dating back to the Neolithic Age, showcasing early human settlement.

Historical Significance: Provides insights into early human civilization
Archaeological Findings: Includes a well-preserved Neolithic settlement
Photography Opportunities: Ideal location for capturing ancient structures and landscapes

The birthplace of Osman Bey, the founder of the Ottoman Empire, featuring a museum and mosque.

Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into the origins of the Ottoman Empire
Museum Experience: Includes a museum dedicated to Osman Bey's life and the Ottoman Empire's early history
Architectural Wonders: Features a beautiful mosque and other historic buildings

A family-friendly zoo with a variety of animals, including native species like Anatolian leopards.

Family-Friendly Attraction: Offers a fun and educational experience for families
Native Animal Species: Features native Turkish animal species like the Anatolian leopard
Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts for endangered species