Konya is one of Turkey's oldest continuously inhabited cities, lying at the heart of the Anatolian plateau at 1,016 m elevation. It served as the capital of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum (1077–1307) and is revered worldwide as the birthplace and final resting place of the 13th-century Sufi mystic and poet Mevlana Jalal ad-Din Rumi. The Mevlana Museum — one of Turkey's most-visited sites — draws pilgrims and curious travellers alike to its turquoise-tiled dome. Beyond spiritual tourism, Konya offers an extraordinary concentration of Seljuk monuments, a lively bazaar district, and a regional cuisine famous for etli ekmek (elongated meat-topped flatbread) and firin sut (baked milk dessert). As a conservative, predominantly religious city, Konya offers a glimpse of traditional Anatolian life rarely found in Turkey's coastal resorts.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Konya Science Centre (Bilim Merkezi)
Large interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits, planetarium and children's discovery zones. Excellent for ages 5–16.
Duration: 2–3 hours
Mevlana Museum
Children are fascinated by the turquoise dome and the whirling dervish story. The museum shop sells dervish spinning tops children can play with. Free entry.
Duration: 1 hour with children
Alaeddin Park
Central park at the foot of Alaeddin Hill with playgrounds, green lawns, tea kiosks and ice cream vendors. Free.
Duration: 1–2 hours
Konya Zoo (Hayvanat Bahçesi)
Municipal zoo on the western outskirts, home to a variety of animals including lions, bears and exotic birds. Modest but enjoyable for young children.
Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Kılıçarslan Aqua Park
Seasonal water park near Selcuklu with slides, pools and wave pool. Open June–September. Children under 6 enter free.
Duration: 3–5 hours
Bedesten Bazaar Lokum Tasting
Children enjoy choosing and tasting Turkish delight varieties at Güvenç Kuruyemiş shop. An interactive sweet cultural experience.
Duration: 30 minutes
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Dedeman Konya
Hilton Garden Inn Konya
Hotel Balıkçılar Konya
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
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Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Build downtime into every day — over-scheduled kids melt down faster than tired adults.
Carry snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit at all times.
Many attractions offer discounted family tickets — ask at the ticket window.