KONYA with MEVLANA Museum from Side

Discover Konya and the Mevlana Museum on a Day Trip from Side

This full-day tour to Konya from Side, Turkey offers a deep dive into one of Turkey’s most culturally significant cities. Priced at $138.21 per person, the tour spans approximately 10 to 11 hours, making it an ideal choice for those eager to explore history, art, and spirituality in a single day. Starting early at 6:00 am, the tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide, and entrance fees to key sites, providing a comfortable and informative experience. While the tour includes a visit to the Karatay Medrese Museum, the Mevlana Museum, and a short walk through Konya’s old town, it is especially noted for its focus on Mevlana Rumi’s legacy.

However, some visitors report disappointment at the lack of whirling dervish performances, which they expect from the spiritual reputation of Konya. This tour is best suited for those interested in cultural history and architectural monuments, and who are prepared for a full day of sightseeing. With most bookings happening 50 days in advance, it clearly appeals to those planning ahead for this meaningful journey.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $138.21 per person for 10-11 hours of guided touring
• Key Stops: Karatay Medrese Museum, Mevlana Museum, and Konya’s old town
• Includes: Entrance fees, transport, guide, insurance, pickup, mobile ticket
• Highlights: Artifacts from the Seljuk era, the mausoleum of Rumi, and the Mevlevi lodge
• Notable Limitation: No whirling dervish performances, which may disappoint those expecting a lively spectacle

Starting Early with Pickup and Modern Comforts

The tour begins at 6:00 am with pickup service, ensuring you avoid the hassle of navigating from Side. The air-conditioned vehicle transports the group comfortably across the roughly 200 km distance to Konya. This early start maximizes your day, and the tour maintains a steady pace through its stops, balancing culture with practical travel logistics. The inclusion of insurance and a mobile ticket adds convenience and peace of mind.

Exploring the Karatay Medrese Museum and Seljuk Art

The first stop at the Karatay Medrese lasts approximately 25 minutes and is included in the price. Here, visitors appreciate the beautiful faience works from the Seljuk period, which display intricate craftsmanship and artistic excellence. Historically, this site was an Islamic university, and it now provides a glimpse into Seljuk-era architecture and art. Visitors can also learn that Konya was once home to the first carpet manufacturers whose work inspired Marco Polo.

Visiting the Mevlana Museum: Rumi’s Mausoleum and Dervish Lodge

The highlight of the tour is the 1 hour and 30 minutes spent at the Mevlana Museum. This site is the mausoleum of Rumi, the famed Sufi mystic whose poetry and teachings continue to influence many. The museum includes the mausoleum of Baha ud-Din Walad, Rumi’s father, and the dervish lodge of the Mevlevi Order, renowned for their whirling dervish ceremonies. Visitors gain valuable historical context, understanding Rumi’s impact on spirituality and Turkish culture.

While the museum is full of artifacts and religious relics, it is important to note that the tour does not include the whirling dance performance itself, leading to some disappointment among those expecting an energetic show.

Walking Through Konya’s Old Town After Lunch

Following the museum visit, the tour offers a short walk through Konya’s old town, lasting about 1 hour. This walk provides a chance to see the modern city infrastructure, shopping centers, and local streets. The free walk allows for some casual exploration and appreciation of the city’s contemporary life alongside its historic sites.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour includes admissions to the Karatay Medrese and Mevlana Museum, ensuring that no extra fees are necessary. The group size is limited to 35 travelers, fostering a more personal experience. Visitors should plan to bring their own lunch as it is not included, and drinks, especially alcoholic beverages, are also extra.

The pickup and drop-off service makes the journey smooth, and the mobile ticket system offers ease in access. The tour ensures that most participants can join, with confirmation received at booking.

The Experience of the Guides and Cultural Narratives

While specific guide personalities are not listed, reviews highlight knowledgeable guides who effectively explain the history and significance of the sites visited. The guides help connect the artifacts and monuments to Rumi’s teachings and Konya’s cultural fabric. However, the reviews reveal that some visitors leave disappointed due to the absence of live whirling dervish shows, which are often seen as the most visually captivating aspect of Konya’s spiritual culture.

Considerations for Potential Participants

This tour is most suitable for those who seek a cultural and historical overview rather than a performance-focused experience. The full-day itinerary demands good stamina and comfort with long hours of travel and sightseeing. The pace is steady, and the stops are designed to maximize exposure to key sites without overwhelming.

Since breakfast is not included, travelers should have a light meal before departure, and lunch is at their own expense, often at nearby restaurants or cafes after the Konya visits.

Final Thoughts on the Konya Day Trip

The full-day tour to Konya from Side offers a cost-effective and well-organized way to explore a city known for its spiritual heritage and Seljuk architecture. The inclusion of the Mevlana Museum and Karatay Medrese provides a rich cultural experience, especially for those interested in Rumi’s teachings and Islamic art.

However, travelers should be aware that live whirling dervish performances are not part of this package, which may be a disappointment for some. The comfortable transport, professional guides, and carefully curated stops make this tour a solid choice for visitors wanting to enjoy Konya’s history without the hassle of planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included; participants are responsible for their own food during the day.

Are tickets included for all sites?
Yes, the admission fees for the Karatay Medrese and Mevlana Museum are included in the tour price.

Is there an opportunity to see a whirling dervish performance?
No, the tour does not include a live whirling ceremony, which has led to some disappointment among visitors expecting this experience.

What is the tour’s cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It is ideal for those interested in cultural history, art, and spiritual sites, and who are comfortable with long travel days and walking through historical areas.