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.
Luxury hotels
Five-star and palace properties.
Dedeman Konya
Konya's flagship luxury hotel adjacent to Alaeddin Hill, with indoor/outdoor pools, full-service spa, three restaurants and a rooftop bar with city views. The best-positioned luxury property for the historic centre.
Konya Sheraton Hotel
International 5-star brand in Selcuklu business district with multiple pools, full-service spa, Club Lounge and three dining venues. Ideal for business travellers and those preferring a modern, Western-standard luxury experience.
Rumi Hotel & Spa Konya
Boutique 4-star property with hammam, spa and rooftop terrace near the city centre. The most atmospheric luxury option — intimate and design-conscious, drawing on Seljuk and Mevlevi aesthetic.
Fine dining
Michelin-starred and chef-driven restaurants.
Gülbahçe Konağı
Ottoman-era mansion serving revival recipes from the Seljuk and Ottoman court kitchens. Private dining rooms available. Reservations essential.
Dedeman Hotel Main Restaurant
Konya's most formally appointed hotel restaurant; extensive wine list, international and Turkish cuisine, impeccable service. Black tie welcome.