Karaman

Introduction

Located in Central Anatolia and situated north of the Taurus Mountains, Karaman serves as the seat of both its namesake province and district. You will find this city positioned in south central Turkey, nestled at a high elevation within the heart of the region.

During your visit to the area, you can explore local history at the Karaman Museum, which stands as one of the major sights for travelers exploring the city.

Before you go

Prepare for your visit to Karaman by understanding its deep historical roots on the fertile plateau of central Anatolia. You will find a region defined by its agricultural heritage, where the land produces durum wheat for bulgur, various pulses, fruits, and local confectionery. The city's history is marked by its past as Laranda and its significance as a medieval buffer state under the Karamid dynasty. Because the regional capital moved away centuries ago, you can explore a medieval center that remained largely intact.

Getting there

You can reach the city by plane via Konya or Çukurova airports, both of which host daily flights from Istanbul. If you prefer rail travel, high-speed YHT trains provide connections from Ankara and Istanbul, passing through Konya and Çumra before arriving at the station located on the northern edge of the old town. Additionally, the Toros Express runs each morning from Adana, making several stops along the route.

Bus travel offers a direct connection to major hubs including Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya, Konya, and Adana. For those traveling toward the coast, buses run south to Silifke where you can transfer to a dolmus for the ferry port at Taşucu. From there, a hydrofoil serves foot passengers traveling to Girne in Northern Cyprus during the warmer months, while an overnight car ferry operates year-round.

Getting around

You can reach every point of interest within the city on foot. For travel along the main streets, dolmuses are available to transport you across the area.

To visit the caves and canyons located beyond the city limits, you will need your own transportation, an organized tour, or a negotiated taxi for a few hours.

Where to stay

You can find various accommodations depending on your specific needs in Karaman. For a central stay, options are available near the heart of the city where you can enjoy a clean environment despite some street noise. If you prefer modern amenities, you can choose a facility featuring a spa and pool.

Depending on your mode of transport, different areas offer convenient access:

• A hotel located near the railway station serves as a practical choice for those making a quick stopover.
• For those arriving by bus or traveling by car, a modern high-rise at the edge of town provides convenient access to the highway and conference facilities.

Food & drink

You can find numerous affordable dining options along the streets of Ismet Paşa Cad, which runs east from the museum, and Istasyon Cad, heading north. These areas provide convenient spots to grab a meal while exploring the city.

What to see and do

Explore the historical layers of the town center, where you can visit the Karaman Castle. This fortress features three concentric ramparts and sits within a public park that replaced former residential buildings. Nearby, you can explore the Karaman Museum to see artifacts spanning from the Stone Ages to the Ottoman period, or visit the ornately decorated Hatuniye Medresesi adjacent to it. Other local landmarks include the Aktekke Mosque, which houses the tombs of the family of Mevlana Jelaluddin Rumi, and the Yunus Emre Mosque, which holds the tomb of the poet and Sufi mystic.

You can experience traditional architecture by visiting Ottoman houses such as Tartan House or Hürrem Dayı Evi. For a different atmosphere, travel to the outskirts to see the Manazan caves in a limestone gorge or visit Incesu cave, which features stalactites and travertine pools. If you prefer a scenic drive, head to Güldere to view its canyon or explore Binbirkilise, a region on the slopes of an extinct volcano dotted with ruins of Byzantine Christian buildings. For outdoor activities, the Turkish World Culture Park offers sports fields and picnic areas where barbecues are permitted.

Day one, you can begin your journey by exploring the historic sites of the city. You can visit the Karaman Museum to learn about the local history and then walk through the nearby area to see the ancient structures.

Day two, you can head toward the outskirts to explore Karaman Castle. This site offers a look into the region's past as you take in the surroundings of this historic fortification.

Day three, you can spend your final day wandering through the local streets, such as Istasyon Cad or Ismet Paşa Cad, to experience the atmosphere of the city before your departure.