Are you looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Europe? Look no further than Konya, Turkey! With the availability of cheap flights, Konya is an affordable and captivating city to explore.
Located in central Turkey, Konya is known for its religious and cultural significance. The city was the capital of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum in the 12th and 13th centuries and is the final resting place of the famous Sufi mystic, Rumi. Visitors are drawn to Konya for its beautiful and ornate mosques, as well as its historical landmarks.
One of the top attractions in Konya is the Mevlana Museum, which is the mausoleum of Rumi and a pilgrimage site for Sufis around the world. The museum also houses an impressive collection of Islamic art and artifacts. Another must-see is the Alaeddin Mosque, which is one of the oldest mosques in Turkey and features stunning Byzantine and Seljuk architectural elements.
Aside from its rich history, Konya also offers visitors a taste of Turkish culture and hospitality. The city is known for its traditional food, including world-renowned Turkish sweets like baklava and Turkish delight. You can also try local delicacies like kuzu tandır (roasted lamb) and börek (savory pastries).
Konya is easy to get to thanks to the availability of cheap flights from many European cities. Once you arrive, it's easy to get around the city on foot or by using public transportation. Accommodation options range from affordable hostels to luxurious hotels, catering to every budget.
Whether you're interested in history, culture or just looking for an affordable and unique travel experience, Konya is definitely worth considering for your next European adventure.
Airlines flying to Konya
If you're planning a trip to Konya, Turkey, you may be wondering which airlines fly to this popular destination. Fortunately, there are several airlines that offer flights to Konya at affordable prices, making it easy to visit this historic and beautiful city.
Turkish Airlines is one of the main airlines that fly to Konya, with flights departing from various cities throughout Europe and the Middle East. These flights are often affordable and offer a convenient way to reach Konya without breaking the bank.
Another airline that offers cheap flights to Konya is Pegasus Airlines. With its headquarters in Istanbul, Pegasus Airlines operates a range of flights across Turkey and Europe, including several flights to Konya each week.
In addition to these airlines, you may find that other budget airlines such as SunExpress and Onur Air offer flights to Konya at competitive prices. These airlines are popular choices for travelers on a budget, and they may offer additional options for flights to Konya depending on where you're departing from.
There are plenty of airlines to choose from when planning your trip to Konya, and you're likely to find a flight that fits your budget and travel schedule. Whether you're flying for business or pleasure, Konya is a wonderful destination that's sure to leave you with lasting memories.
Getting to and from the airport
If you're looking for a cheaper way to travel to Konya, the main airport code for the region is KYA. There are a number of low-cost airlines that offer flights to Konya, making it easy and affordable to travel to this popular destination.
Many airlines, such as Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and AnadoluJet, fly to Konya from various destinations across Europe. The airport is located around 18km from the city center, but transport options are readily available.
One of the easiest ways to travel from KYA to the city is by taxi. Taxis are available outside the airport terminal and can take you directly to your accommodation. Alternatively, you can opt for public transportation, such as the bus and tram service, which is both affordable and convenient.
When it comes to leaving Konya, you'll have access to the same transportation options. Pre-booking your transport in advance is always recommended to avoid any hassle at the airport. You can also choose to rent a car if you prefer to explore the region on your own.
Getting to and from Konya is relatively easy and there are plenty of cheap flight options available. With its rich cultural history and beautiful architecture, Konya is a destination that should definitely be on your travel list.
What to do in Konya
Looking to explore the charming city of Konya in Europe? Here are some suggestions on what to do during your visit.
Explore the historical sites
Konya has a rich history, so exploring its historical sites is a must-do activity. You can visit the Mevlana Museum, also known as the Blue Mosque, and it is one of the most visited sites in Turkey. It is named after the Sufi mystic Rumi and the place where he spent the last 50 years of his life. Another not-to-be-missed destination is the 13th-century Selimiye Mosque. It has a grand and beautiful stone exterior, and the inside has towering domes and colorful tiles.
Indulge in local cuisine
Konya is famous for its unique cuisine, which is a mix of Turkish, Ottoman, and Arabic dishes. Do try the sac kavurma, which is a dish made with grilled meat and served in a metal tray. Another must-try dish is the etli ekmek, a flatbread topped with ground beef, tomato, and peppers. You can also visit the local bazaars to try out different street foods like simit and gozleme.
Enjoy the music and dance
Konya is also known for its traditional music and dances. You can witness the Whirling Dervishes, a Sufi meditation ceremony accompanied by music, on many evenings around the city. Moreover, you can attend concerts and musical events held at the Konya Cultural Center and other venues around the city.
Take a stroll around the parks
Konya has numerous groves and city parks, making it an ideal spot for an evening walk. One such park is the Ataturk Park that houses traditional architecture, fountains, and lots of greenery. Another excellent option is Alaaddin Hill with a castle on top of it.
Where to start
Konya is easily accessible through cheap flights by landing at the Konya Airport. From there, one can take a bus or a taxi to reach the city center. The city is also well-connected by train and road. Once in the city, one can explore the place on foot or use public transportation like buses and trams.
So next time you plan to travel to Turkey, don't forget to add Konya on your itinerary!
When is best to visit Konya
- If you are planning to visit Konya, Europe, you might be wondering when the best time to visit is. Well, the answer to that question depends on your preferences and what you are looking for in your trip.
- One thing worth considering is the weather. Konya has a continental climate, which means that summers can get hot and winters can get cold. If you prefer milder temperatures, you might want to avoid the peak summer season (June to August) and the peak winter season (December to February). Instead, you could visit Konya during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November).
- Another factor you may want to consider is the crowds. If you want to avoid the crowds, you might want to skip the peak season altogether and opt for a less busy time of year. However, keep in mind that some attractions may have limited opening hours or be closed during the low season.
- If you are on a budget, you might want to look for cheap flights to Konya. The prices of flights and accommodations can vary depending on the time of year, so it's worth doing some research and comparing prices. Generally speaking, the low season may offer more affordable options.
- Lastly, it's worth noting that some events and festivals take place in Konya throughout the year. For example, the Mevlana Festival (commemorating the death of the Sufi poet Rumi) is held in December, while the Whirling Dervishes Festival takes place in May and December. If you are interested in attending these events, you might want to plan your trip accordingly.
- In summary, the best time to visit Konya depends on your preferences. Consider the weather, crowds, prices, and events when planning your trip.
What to eat in Konya
Konya, located in Europe, is a city famous for its culture, UNESCO-listed sites, and delicious cuisine. If you're planning a trip here (and why wouldn't you with all the cheap flights available?), make sure you try the following dishes.
Etli Ekmek (Meat Bread)
A Konya specialty, Etli Ekmek is made by topping a round of dough with ground meat, tomatoes, peppers, and onions, then baking it in a wood-fired oven. The end result is a crispy yet chewy bread with a delicious meaty topping.
Firin Kebab
Firin Kebab is a lamb dish that has been slow-cooked for hours in a wood-fired oven. The meat is so tender that it falls off the bone and is usually served with one or two pieces of flatbread.
Tirit
If you're looking for a soup dish, try the Tirit. It consists of shredded meat, tomatoes, and peppers, served in a rich tomato-based broth with cubes of bread.
Pide
Pide is a Turkish version of pizza, but instead of tomato sauce, it's topped with a variety of meats, vegetables, and cheese. It's usually cut into small pieces and served hot.
Baklava
No meal is complete without delectable sweet treats such as Baklava. This dessert is made with layers of flaky phyllo pastry filled with chopped nuts and honey syrup.
So when in Konya, make sure you try these dishes that are incredibly filling and guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds.
Top 5 attractions in Konya
Konya, Europe. Top 5 Attractions
Konya, a city in central Turkey, is a special place that fairy tales are made of. Its mysticism is largely influenced by the spiritual leader and poet Rumi, who spent most of his life in Konya. This Turkish city is an ideal destination for people seeking culturally rich experiences, delicious cuisine, and a peaceful environment. Plus, with the availability of cheap flights to Konya, traveling here won't break the bank. Here are five must-visit attractions in Konya.
- Mevlana Museum. Also known as the Green Mausoleum, this 13th-century building is home to the tomb of Rumi. It's a place of spiritual significance to Muslims, and a marvel of historical architecture that cannot be missed.
- Alaeddin Mosque. Situated atop a rocky hill with a fantastic view of the city, the Alaeddin Mosque is a great place to visit. Built in the 13th century, it has intricate decorations and a beautiful courtyard. It is also a great spot for sunset watching.
- Ince Minaret Medrese. This is one of the unique attractions in Konya. The medrese, built-in 1260, has an unusual shape and architecture that makes it a wonder of the world. Today, it serves as a museum and holds valuable artifacts.
- Konya Archaeological Museum. For those history buffs, the Konya Archaeological Museum is an excellent place to visit. It houses remarkable displays of ancient artifacts including Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman period pieces.
- Sille Village. This charming village is located 8 km from Konya and provides a different type of experience compared to the city. Sille Village is known for its traditional architecture, walking trails, and the beautiful Seljukian Hanging Bridge, which is the only concrete bridge with a single span built in the 13th century.
Konya is brimming with history and culture. These five Konya attractions offer a glimpse of its rich heritage and provide breath-taking views that visitors are guaranteed to cherish.
Places like Konya worth visiting
- Konya, Turkey Konya is a city in Turkey and is famous for its whirling dervishes, who are followers of the Islamic philosopher Rumi. This city is also known for its historical and cultural heritage sites, such as the Mevlana Museum, Karatay Madrasa, and the Alaeddin Mosque. Additionally, Konya serves as the perfect gateway to explore the Cappadocia region and enjoy hot air balloon rides, hiking, and sightseeing tours.
- Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina and is famous for its Ottoman-style architecture, lively markets, and delicious food. It is a beautiful city that offers awe-inspiring mountain views and plenty of cultural experiences, such as visiting the Latin Bridge, seeing the Olympic bobsled track, and touring the Sarajevo War Tunnel.
- Plovdiv, Bulgaria Plovdiv is a historic city in Bulgaria and is also known as the cultural capital of Europe. This charming town is built around seven hills and has a rich history dating back to the Roman era. Plovdiv offers a mix of ancient ruins, beautiful architecture, and vibrant nightlife. As a bonus, Plovdiv is also significantly cheaper compared to other European cities!
- Krakow, Poland Krakow is a beautiful city and an ideal destination for anyone looking for a historical and cultural experience. It is known for its well-preserved medieval buildings, stunning main square, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Krakow is also an excellent base to explore the nearby concentration camps from WWII if you're interested in learning about the city's darker history.
- Valencia, Spain Valencia is a cheerful city located on the coast of Spain and is famous for its stunning beaches, historical buildings, and delicious food. From the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences to the popular Central Market, Valencia offers plenty of attractions to keep you busy. If you're a fan of paella, Valencia is the birthplace of this iconic Spanish dish, and you'll find some of the best paella in the world here! Plus, with many low-cost airlines offering cheap flights to Valencia, it's a great city to visit on a budget.