Things To Do
in Beyşehir

Beyşehir is a small lakeside town in Konya Province, central-south Turkey, known for the vast blue expanse of Lake Beyşehir and well-preserved Seljuk architecture. The town mixes rural Anatolian life with seasonal tourism — fishermen, shepherds and summer visitors share markets, cafes and a relaxed waterfront promenade. Historical highlights include the timber-columned Eşrefoğlu Mosque and the ruins of the Kubadabad Palace on the lake shore.

Beyşehir is a good base for quiet nature activities: birdwatching, boating and hikes into the nearby Sultan Mountains and national park areas.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day by strolling through Beyşehir's historic center, where ancient architecture tells stories of bygone eras. Visit the iconic Eşrefoğlu Mosque, a stunning example of wooden architecture, and learn about its rich history from local guides. The morning sun casts a beautiful glow over the town, making it the perfect time for photography.

afternoon
:

After a leisurely lunch at a local café, continue your exploration by visiting the Beyşehir Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Turkey. You can rent a paddleboat or simply relax by the shores, enjoying the serene views and fresh air. The afternoon light is perfect for a picnic, surrounded by nature's beauty.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a traditional Turkish restaurant to savor local dishes like 'beyşehir kebabı' and fresh fish from the lake. The ambiance is lively, filled with the sounds of laughter and the aroma of spices wafting through the air. After dinner, take a serene walk along the lakefront, watching the moonlight shimmer on the water.

day 2
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Start your day at the Beyşehir Archaeological Museum, where you can marvel at artifacts from the region's rich history, including ancient pottery and coins. The knowledgeable staff will provide insights into the significance of each piece, deepening your appreciation for Beyşehir's past. Spend some time in the museum's garden, where local art installations are displayed amidst lush greenery.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, join a local art workshop to learn about traditional Turkish craftsmanship, such as tile-making or carpet weaving. This hands-on experience allows you to create your own piece of art to take home as a unique souvenir. Enjoy conversations with local artisans who share their stories and techniques, enriching your understanding of Beyşehir's cultural heritage.

evening
:

Wrap up your cultural day with a visit to a local theater for a performance that showcases Turkish folk music and dance. The energy in the room is infectious, as performers don colorful costumes and share their heritage through storytelling. After the show, mingle with locals at a nearby café, discussing the performance over a cup of Turkish coffee.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Cup of Turkish tea or coffee$0.50-2
🏨Budget hotel / pensions (per night)$25-60
🚕Short taxi ride (local)$1.5-5
🎟Museum/entry fees$1-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Scenic Lake Beyşehir with peaceful waterfront and good photo opportunities
  • Well-preserved Seljuk architecture (Eşrefoğlu Mosque, Kubadabad Palace ruins)
  • Quiet, low-cost destination with authentic rural Anatolian culture
  • Good for outdoor activities: boating, birdwatching, hiking
  • Limited nightlife and few upscale amenities
  • Public transport is limited—having a car is helpful
  • Some seasonal closures in winter and fewer dining options off-season
  • Fewer English speakers outside tourist spots
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Ne kadar?" - How much?
  • "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Yardım edin" - Help
  • "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me / I'm sorry

Places to Visit in Beyşehir

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Beyşehir Shoreline

Expansive water, reed beds and island views—excellent at sunrise and sunset for reflections and birdlife shots.

Kubadabad Palace Ruins

Seljuk-era palace ruins on the lake with stonework and views across the water—good for historical-architecture compositions and wide-angle landscape photos.

Eşrefoğlu Mosque

Interior wooden columns, carved details and atmospheric light—photograph both exterior Seljuk architecture and interior craftsmanship (respect rules about flash and prayer times).

Lakeside Promenade and Fishermen

Street-level scenes of daily life: nets, boats, fishermen and cafes—great for candid portrait and cultural documentary-style photos.

Sultan Mountains Lookouts

High vantage points overlooking the lake and surrounding steppe—ideal for panoramic landscape photos, especially in spring and autumn.

Culinary Guide

Food in Beyşehir

Beyşehir’s cuisine combines Central Anatolian staples with fresh lake fish and rural village fare. Expect simple, hearty dishes built around wheat (bread and pastries), lamb and seasonal vegetables, with fish and dairy products from the lake and surrounding farms.

Beyşehir Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Beyşehir Lake Fish (Balık)

Freshly caught local fish, often grilled or fried; try it at lakeside restaurants or from small fish vendors near the pier.

Must-Try!

Etli Ekmek

Long, thin flatbread topped with seasoned minced meat—Konya-region specialty widely available in local bakeries and eateries.

Gözleme

Thin hand-rolled flatbread filled with spinach, cheese, potato or minced meat; common at markets and village tea gardens.

Kaymak and Local Honey

Rich clotted cream (kaymak) often served with honey for breakfast or dessert; sourced from nearby villages.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Beyşehir Bazaar

Small morning market selling fresh produce, cheeses, olives and bakery items—excellent for sampling gözleme, seasonal fruits and local honey.

Lakeside Vendors

Stalls near the pier offering fresh fried fish sandwiches and tea; ideal for quick, scenic bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Beyşehir has a continental Mediterranean-influenced climate: hot, dry summers and cold winters with potential snowfall. Spring and autumn are transitional and often pleasant for outdoor activities. The lake moderates temperatures slightly near the shore, making nights cooler in summer and slightly milder in winter than some inland plateau areas.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting and Respect

Use polite greetings like 'Merhaba' (hello) and 'Teşekkür ederim' (thank you). Show respect to elders and use a soft, polite tone in public spaces.

Mosque Etiquette

Remove shoes and dress modestly when entering mosques; women may be asked to cover their heads. Observe prayer times and avoid photographing worshippers without permission.

Dress Code

Beyşehir is relatively conservative—dress modestly, especially in villages and religious sites. In touristy lakeside areas casual wear is widely accepted.

Photography of People

Always ask before photographing people, especially women and older residents; many will appreciate that courtesy.

Safety Guide

Safety

Beyşehir is generally safe with low violent crime; usual precautions against petty theft (watch your belongings in markets and on crowded promenades) are advisable. In winter be cautious of icy roads and sidewalks; in summer be mindful of sun exposure and drink water. Follow local guidance for boating, swimming only in permitted areas and wear lifejackets if venturing out on the lake.

Tipping in Beyşehir

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants leave around 5–10% if service is good; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common in cafés. Give a few TL to hotel porters for luggage and a small tip to cleaning staff. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest lira or leaving 5–10% is fine.

Payment Methods

Turkish lira (TRY) is the local currency; credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and hotels, but smaller shops, markets, and remote vendors prefer cash. ATMs are available in town; notify your bank before travel to avoid card blocks.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and dry inland conditions with daytime temperatures often warm to hot; ideal for boating, swimming and evening promenades. Expect more weekend visitors and local holidaymakers; lakeside spots can be busy. Bring sun protection and light clothing for daytime, but a light jacket for cooler nights by the water.

Autumn

Mild days and cool nights with pleasant hiking conditions and clear air—great for photography and birdwatching during migration. Fewer tourists than summer; some services may reduce hours.

Winter

Cold and potentially snowy—temperatures can drop below freezing and roads may be icy. Town life is quieter; if you plan outdoor activities prepare for winter driving and pack warm layers. Many seasonal businesses close or operate reduced hours.

Spring

Temperatures moderate and landscapes bloom—excellent for hiking, cycling and birdwatching as migratory species arrive. Early spring can be wet; carry waterproof layers and expect muddy trails in some areas.

Nightlife Guide

Beyşehir at Night

Nightlife in Beyşehir is low-key and community-oriented: evenings center around tea gardens, lakeside cafes and seasonal outdoor restaurants. In summer there are more activities, occasional live music and late promenades; there are no large clubs—most entertainment is relaxed and family-friendly.

Hiking in Beyşehir

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Beyşehir National Park Trails

Network of trails around the lake and wetlands with routes suitable for easy walks and birdwatching close to town.

Sultan Mountains (Sultandağları) Routes

More challenging hikes into the nearby mountain range with panoramic views over the lake and steppe; best in spring and autumn.

Kubadabad Shore Walks

Short coastal hikes around the Kubadabad ruins and nearby coves—good for combining history and landscape photography.

Village-to-Village Paths

Rural paths connecting small lakeside villages provide cultural insights, quiet scenery and opportunities to sample local food along the way.

Airports

How to reach Beyşehir by plane.

Konya Airport (KYA)

The closest major airport, roughly 1.5–2 hours by road depending on route; offers regional flights and is well connected by bus or private transfer to Beyşehir.

Isparta Süleyman Demirel Airport (ISE)

Approximately 1.5–2.5 hours away by car (distance varies by route); useful for travelers coming from the southwest of the region.

Antalya Airport (AYT)

Larger international airport approximately 2.5–4 hours away by road; useful for international travelers who want to combine a coastal trip with a Beyşehir visit.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center and lakeside promenade are very walkable on foot with short distances between cafés, markets and sights. Sidewalk conditions vary in residential areas and some attractions (like Kubadabad) require a vehicle or a longer walk. Uneven surfaces and cobbles are common near historic sites.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Turks

The majority of residents are ethnic Turks, with strong local ties to agriculture, fishing and small commerce.

Rural and Village Communities

Many inhabitants come from nearby villages and practice traditional trades—agriculture, animal husbandry, artisanal food production.

Seasonal Visitors

During summer months, visitors and holiday home owners from Konya and other Turkish cities increase the population and tourism activity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport across the region with local amateur teams and school competitions; community matches are common on weekends.

Fishing

Both recreational and small-scale commercial fishing on Lake Beyşehir; anglers often fish from boats or from the shore.

Water Sports

Boating, kayaking and occasional windsurfing on the lake—more common in summer months.

Hiking and Cycling

Popular among locals and visitors for exploring the national park and surrounding hills.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Beyşehir is generally light; congestion only builds on summer weekends and during local festivals. Roads to and around the lake can be narrow and winding—exercise caution, especially at night. Public transportation is limited to regional buses and local minibuses (dolmuş); renting a car or using private transfers gives the greatest flexibility for exploring surrounding natural sites.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Beyşehir.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are readily available: gözleme with spinach or cheese, mezze plates, lentil soup and vegetable stews. Inform staff that you don't eat meat ("Et yemiyorum") and ask for dishes without meat stock.

Vegan

More limited but possible—look for lentil soup, salads, olive oil–based vegetable dishes and bread. Carry snacks in remote areas and ask cooks about butter/egg in breads.

Gluten-free

Challenging due to heavy use of wheat (bread, gözleme, etli ekmek). Opt for grilled fish, meat dishes without breading, and salads; cross-contamination is common.

Halal

Most meat sold and served in Beyşehir is halal; restaurants and butchers generally follow local Muslim practices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Beyşehir has a state hospital (Beyşehir Devlet Hastanesi) and several family clinics and pharmacies for routine care and minor emergencies. For specialist or advanced treatment, the nearest major hospitals are in Konya (about 1.5–2 hours by road). Ambulance services are available; travel insurance covering medical evacuation is recommended for serious incidents.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide