Private Konya Mevlana Tour from Istanbul with Flights

Embark on an unforgettable private day trip from Istanbul to the spiritual heart of Turkey — Konya, the city of Rumi and the Whirling Dervishes. Your journey begins with a domestic flight from Istanbul, whisking you to central Anatolia in comfort and style. Upon arrival in Konya, your private guide will greet you and lead you through this culturally rich city at your own pace. Visit the magnificent Mevlana Museum, the resting place of the great Sufi poet and philosopher Jalaluddin Rumi, where you'll admire exquisite collections of manuscripts, textiles, and sacred relics. Continue to the Alaaddin Mosque, one of Konya's oldest and most beautiful Seljuk-era mosques, perched atop the historic Alaaddin Hill. You'll also explore the Mosque and Tomb of Shams-i Tabrizi, Rumi's beloved spiritual companion. Throughout the day, your private guide will share captivating stories of Sufi mysticism, Seljuk architecture, and Konya's enduring legacy as a center of tolerance and wisdom. After a fulfilling day, you'll fly back to Istanbul with memories of a truly unique cultural experience.

Mevlana Museum

Explore the sacred Mevlana Museum, tomb of poet Rumi
Discover the ancient Seljuk-era Alaaddin Mosque in Konya
Visit the Mosque and Tomb of Shams-i Tabrizi
Experience Konya's rich Sufi mysticism with a private guide
Enjoy round-trip domestic flights from Istanbul to Konya
Marvel at exquisite Seljuk architecture and sacred manuscripts
Discover Konya's legacy as a center of tolerance and wisdom
Travel at your own pace on a fully personalized excursion

Full-Day

Private Konya & Rumi Heritage Itinerary from Istanbul

Your private driver picks you up from your hotel in Istanbul and transfers you to Istanbul Airport for your morning flight to Konya. Your guide will ensure a smooth check-in process before you board your approximately one-hour flight to this culturally rich city in the heart of Anatolia.

Upon arrival at Konya Airport, a local private guide and driver greet you and begin the scenic drive into the city center, passing through Konya's wide boulevards lined with Seljuk-era architecture and modern landmarks.

Your first stop is the magnificent Mevlana Museum, the spiritual heart of Konya and the final resting place of the great Sufi mystic and poet Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi. Your private guide walks you through the ornate halls displaying Rumi's manuscripts, personal belongings, and the iconic green-tiled mausoleum that draws visitors from around the world. Explore the dervish cells, the ceremonial hall, and the stunning collection of ancient Qurans at your own pace.

Next, stroll to the nearby Sultan Selim Mosque, an impressive Ottoman imperial mosque that towers over the Mevlana complex. Admire its grand dome and elegant interior while your guide shares stories of its construction and significance.

Continue to the Alaaddin Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Konya, perched atop Alaaddin Hill. This Seljuk masterpiece features a forest of ancient columns and houses the tombs of several Seljuk sultans.

Afterward, visit the Mosque and Tomb of Shams-i Tabrizi, dedicated to the wandering mystic who profoundly influenced Rumi's spiritual transformation. Your private guide explains the deep bond between these two figures and the legacy they left behind.

Then explore the Karatay Madrasa, a 13th-century Seljuk theological school now serving as a tile museum. Marvel at the cobalt-blue tilework adorning the interior dome, showcasing some of the finest examples of Seljuk artistry.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, where you can sample Konya's famous cuisine, including etli ekmek (flatbread with minced meat), bamya çorbası (okra soup), and the city's signature fırın kebabı (oven-roasted lamb).

After lunch, visit the Ince Minareli Madrasa, known for its intricately carved stone portal and slender minaret. Now a museum of stone and wood carving, it offers a remarkable window into Seljuk craftsmanship and artistic expression.

Take a final walk through Konya’s old quarter, browsing local shops for traditional felt crafts and Mevlevi-inspired souvenirs. Your private transfer will then take you to Konya Airport for your return flight to Istanbul. Upon landing, your private driver will meet you at the arrivals gate to transfer you comfortably back to your hotel. End of our services.

Private airport transfers in Istanbul
experienced local guides for the listed guided visits; guide assignments may vary by destination, day or segment
Private vehicle throughout
Round-trip domestic flights between Istanbul and Konya
Entrance fee to Mevlana Museum (Rumi's Tomb)
Entrance fees to all sites mentioned in the itinerary
Lunch at a local restaurant in Konya
Bottled water during the tour

Personal expenses and souvenirs
Gratuities for guide and driver
Additional food and beverages not mentioned in inclusions
Travel insurance
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary

What is the best time of year to visit Konya?

Konya can be visited year-round, but spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) offer the most pleasant temperatures for sightseeing. Summers can be hot and dry, while winters are cold with occasional snowfall.

How long is the flight from Istanbul to Konya?

The direct flight from Istanbul to Konya takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Flight schedules vary, so exact departure and return times will be confirmed closer to your travel date.

What is included during the free days in Istanbul?

Free days include hotel accommodation and breakfast only. Entrance fees, guided tours, meals, and transportation during free days are at your own expense. Your One Nation Travel representative can help arrange optional activities upon request.

Can additional guided tours be added to my free days in Istanbul?

Absolutely. We offer a range of private guided Istanbul tours, including Old City tours, Bosphorus cruises, and food tours. Contact your One Nation Travel representative to customize your itinerary with additional experiences.

Is the Konya day trip suitable for travelers with mobility challenges?

Most sites in Konya are accessible, though some historical sites involve uneven ground and steps. The Mevlana Museum is largely accessible. Please inform us of any mobility concerns in advance so we can tailor the itinerary accordingly.

What type of cuisine can I expect in Konya?

Konya is famous for its distinctive Central Anatolian cuisine. Signature dishes include etliekmek (a long, thin meat flatbread), fırın kebabı (slow-roasted lamb), and bamya çorbası (okra soup). Lunch during the tour will feature these local specialties.

Do I need to arrange my own airport transfers on arrival and departure days?

No, private airport transfers on your arrival and departure days are included in the tour package. A representative will meet you at Istanbul Airport and assist with your transfer to and from the hotel.

Private Konya Mevlana Tour from Istanbul with Flights

Overview:

Mevlana Museum

Itinerary

Private Konya & Rumi Heritage Itinerary from Istanbul

Inclusions:

Exclusions: