Things To Do
in Kulu
Kulu is a historic town in Konya Province, Turkey, set on the Anatolian plains where agriculture shapes daily life. It blends Ottoman-era architecture, narrow cobbled streets, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that invites slow exploration. The town serves as a gateway to rural Anatolia, offering markets, mosques, and scenic byways through nearby hills and orchards.
With its relaxed pace and nearby nature, Kulu is ideal for authentic Turkish experiences and easy day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the quaint town of Kulu, surrounded by breathtaking views of nature. Check into a local bed-and-breakfast that offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy a hearty Turkish breakfast featuring fresh bread, olives, and local cheeses.
Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets, exploring small shops and artisan stalls. Visit the local museum to learn about Kulu's rich history and cultural heritage. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café, savoring traditional Turkish dishes.
As the sun sets, sit down for dinner at a scenic restaurant overlooking the town. Try a traditional kebab meal paired with a glass of local wine. Wrap up your day by relaxing at a nearby park, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
After breakfast, set out for a hiking adventure on one of Kulu’s famous trails. The lush greenery and the sounds of nature create an invigorating start to your day. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture stunning vistas along the way.
Pack a picnic lunch and find a scenic spot to relax while enjoying delicious homemade snacks. Spend the afternoon hiking to explore hidden waterfalls and natural springs that Kulu is known for. This is a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and recharge.
Return to Kulu and freshen up before heading to a local tavern for dinner. Engage with locals and share stories over an authentic Turkish meal. Spend the evening strolling along the quiet streets of the town under a star-filled sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Lunch at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
| 🏨1 night in a budget hotel | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and genuine small-town atmosphere
- Friendly locals and easy day trips to nature
- Delicious Anatolian cuisine and authentic markets
- Limited nightlife and fewer Western-style amenities
- Private transport is helpful for out-of-town sites
- Seasonal crowds can affect markets and popular trails
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Afedersiniz" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Burası neresi?" - Where is this place?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Kulu
Visit one of these nice places.
A vantage point along the town’s historic lanes offering sweeping views of terracotta roofs and the surrounding plains.
The covered market arches glow with warm lamps as evening light settles over narrow alleys.
A quiet, symmetrical space with arches and soft light ideal for architectural shots.
Golden light over fields and scattered trees provides compelling rural landscape photography.
Food in Kulu
Kulu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A long, crisp flatbread topped with spiced minced meat; best found at local lokantas near the town square.
Must-Try!
Creamy wheat and meat dish; often served family-style and great for sharing at traditional eateries.
Turkish dumplings with yogurt and garlic sauce; multiple local spots offer their own take.
Slow-cooked vegetable or meat stew in a clay pot, often enjoyed with fresh bread.
A refreshing yogurt-based drink that pairs perfectly with meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market selling fresh produce, olives, cheeses, herbs, and piping-hot köfte or gözleme from street vendors.
Simit slices, gözleme, and other quick bites along the market lanes; great for a casual lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Merhaba and a smile; handshakes are common, especially among men; in conservative settings, allow women to initiate contact.
Dress modestly in public, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites; cover shoulders and knees for mosque visits.
Ask permission before photographing people, particularly in private spaces or villages; be respectful in intimate settings.
Keep voices down in markets and residential streets; avoid loud public displays of affection in conservative areas.
Safety
Tipping in Kulu
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, add 5-10% if no service charge is included. For cafes, rounding up or leaving 1–5 TL is common.
Turkish Lira is the primary currency. Cash is widely accepted; many places also take credit/debit cards, especially in larger restaurants and hotels. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blossoming orchards make walking pleasant and colorful photos easy.
Hot days demand early mornings or late afternoons for outdoor activities; carry water and seek shade.
Harvest season brings comfortable weather and lush countryside; excellent for outdoor exploring and photography.
Cold with occasional snowfall; some trails may be icy but indoor attractions stay cozy and markets remain lively.
Kulu at Night
Hiking in Kulu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle 2 km loop along the town’s outskirts with city views and photo opportunities.
A 5-7 km hike through orchards and streams, suitable for a half-day excursion.
A hillside ridge walk about 30-45 minutes drive from town, offering panoramic countryside scenery.
Airports
How to reach Kulu by plane.
Regional airport offering domestic flights; typically the most convenient gateway to reach Kulu and the surrounding region.
Major hub with connections to international destinations; longer drive to Kulu but viable if arriving from abroad.
Another practical option with several domestic connections; could be convenient depending on your itinerary.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish families in agricultural and small-town settings; multi-generational households common.
Seasonal agricultural workers and students who travel to Konya or Ankara for education or work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widespread throughout the region; local matches and informal games common in towns and schools.
Occasional demonstrations of local or regional traditional games and wrestling in nearby towns during festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kulu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include mercimek çorbası (lentil soup), mercimek köftesi, vegetable pide, and assorted salads. In rural areas, ask for vegetables and legumes separate from meat-based dishes, and consider sharing mezzes that focus on vegetables and grains.