Things To Do
in Selçuklu
Selçuklu is a western district of Konya in central Turkey, blending contemporary neighborhoods with a backdrop of storied history. It offers modern amenities, leafy parks, and easy access to Konya's cultural heart, including Alâeddin Hill and the Mevlana tradition. The area is a comfortable base for exploring both the city center and nearby natural scenery.
With a continental climate, it suits visitors who enjoy outdoor strolling in mild seasons and culturally immersive experiences year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Selçuklu Mosque, where you can admire its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, soaking in the rich history and vibrant culture that surrounds you. Stop by a local café for a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring fresh bread, olives, and feta cheese.
Head to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the world. Spend your afternoon wandering through the remarkable structures, including the Library of Celsus and the grand amphitheater, while imagining the life of ancient Romans. As you explore, be sure to take plenty of photos to capture the beauty and grandeur of this historical marvel.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant in Selçuk that offers delightful views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a dinner of traditional Turkish dishes, perhaps sampling kebabs or mezes, paired with a glass of local wine. After dinner, take a peaceful evening walk around the town, enjoying the illuminated sights and sounds of Selçuk as night falls.
Embark on a scenic drive to Pamukkale, known for its stunning white travertine terraces and thermal springs. Upon arrival, spend your morning soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters that have been cherished since ancient times. Take a moment to marvel at the natural beauty and unique geological formations that make this site a true wonder.
After enjoying the thermal pools, explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, located adjacent to Pamukkale. Stroll through the well-preserved ruins, including the ancient theater and the Necropolis, as you uncover the fascinating history of this once-thriving Roman spa town. Make sure to take a dip in the antique pool, where you can swim among ancient columns and ruins.
Return to Selçuk and unwind after a day filled with exploration. Dine at a local eatery that showcases regional specialties, savoring the flavors of Turkish cuisine. End your evening with a leisurely walk through the charming streets, perhaps stopping for a sweet dessert like baklava to conclude your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨1-night hotel in mid-range | $25-60 |
| 🚇Public transit day pass | $2-5 |
| 🧺Souvenir or small gift | $3-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and close proximity to Mevlana traditions
- Good value for money and diverse food scene
- Walkable city center with scenic viewpoints and parks
- Wide range of day trips to nearby historic villages and nature
- Less nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Summer heat can be intense for outdoor activities
- Some taxi and transit options may require cash payments
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Nerede bu?" - Where is this?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "İngilizce konuşur musunuz?" - Do you speak English?
- "Burası güvenli mi?" - Is this area safe?
- "Vegetarian" - Vegetarian
Places to Visit in Selçuklu
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic city views at sunset with minarets and the historic skyline providing dramatic silhouettes.
Historic market arches and stone façades that glow in golden hour light and offer atmospheric street photography.
Riverside paths, ancient churches, and a calm backdrop ideal for reflective landscape shots.
Modern green spaces with sculptures, water features, and tree-lined alleys perfect for candid portraits.
Pastel reflections on the canal, with bridges and traditional storefronts for compositions.
Food in Selçuklu
Selçuklu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Konya's signature long flatbread topped with seasoned minced meat, usually cooked in a wood-fired oven; best found in traditional lokantas and kebab houses.
Must-Try!
Tiny dumplings served with garlicky yogurt and peppery butter sauce; Konya mantısı is smaller and crispier than some regional styles.
Okra soup with tomatoes and herbs, a comforting starter in many Konya eateries.
Layered baked meat and peppers, often finished with melted cheese; a hearty regional specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market near the old center for street snacks, dried fruits, spices, and friendly vendor chats.
Historic covered market offering fresh produce, nuts, honey, and traditional sweets; ideal for a quick bite or a small purchase.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; address people with respectful forms and use basic Turkish greetings like 'Merhaba' (Hello).
Dress modestly, especially at religious sites; remove shoes where required and ask before photographing people or inside places of worship.
Be mindful around spiritual spaces and ceremonies; avoid loud behavior near mosques and shrines.
Safety
Tipping in Selçuklu
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a 5-10% tip is customary if service charge is not included.
Turkish Lira is widely used; cards are accepted in most shops and restaurants, with growing contactless and mobile payment options.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with abundant sunshine. Seek shade, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Cold with occasional snow. Layered clothing is essential; indoor cultural sites and cozy cafes are ideal refuges.
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes make it ideal for walking tours and photography around parks and historic sites.
Pleasant weather and harvest flavors in markets; great for day trips and outdoor exploration without the heat.
Selçuklu at Night
Hiking in Selçuklu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible river valley hike with historic sites and gentle terrain suitable for a half-day excursion.
Rolling hills near Selçuklu offering scenic overlooks and peaceful paths for a modest hike.
Airports
How to reach Selçuklu by plane.
Domestic and some international flights; located about 18-25 km from central Konya; accessible by taxi or airport shuttles.
Major international airport offering connections to Konya via bus or high-speed rail; about 260-300 km away from Konya, depending on route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant student population due to nearby universities, contributing to a lively daytime scene around campus-adjacent venues.
Residential areas with parks and schools create steady family activity, especially on weekends.
Diverse mix of long-time residents and newcomers, with strong traditions and community networks.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local matches and community leagues throughout the year.
Common in schools and sports centers; city facilities often host amateur leagues and pick-up games.
Occasional traditional wrestling and cultural sports tied to seasonal festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Selçuklu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Konya, vegetarian options include lentil soups, pide with vegetables, yogurt-based dishes, and mezze; politely request no meat and ask for ‘zeytinyağlı’ preparations where available.