Karaman Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Karaman, Turkey with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the must-visit attractions, tips, and tricks for your trip.


Introduction to Karaman

Nestled in central Anatolia, Karaman is one of Turkey’s hidden gems. Being relatively unknown to tourists, this city is a great spot for travelers seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience. Karaman is a perfect destination for travelers who love exploring nature, history, and culture. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at what Karaman has to offer, including the best things to do, dining and accommodation options, and transportation options. Let’s get started!

List of Places to Visit in Karaman

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Karaman is rich in history, and the best place to learn about it is at one of its museums or historical sites. Here are a few places that should make it on your list:

  • The Karaman Museum: This museum showcases artifacts of the region’s past, including archeological finds and ethnographic objects.
  • The Karaman Castle: The castle’s towering walls date back to the Seljuk era and offer breathtaking views of the city and beyond.
  • The Mut Castle: This historic castle is located in the town of Mut, a short drive from Karaman. It’s a great place to explore and learn about Turkish history.

Natural Attractions of Karaman: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Karaman is known for its stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the best ways to experience it:

  • Binbirkilise: This UNESCO World Heritage site features rock-cut churches, temples, and tombs, scattered throughout a vast valley.
  • Goksu River Valley: Take a stroll or ride an ATV in this scenic valley, known for its lush, green landscape and stunning rock formations.
  • Karaman Mountains National Park: This park encompasses over 36,000 hectares of forests and mountains, making it a popular spot for camping, hiking, and wildlife watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Karaman

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, Karaman has plenty of trails waiting to be explored. Here are a few must-see routes:

  • The Kizilini Valley Trail: This 14 km trail takes you through the beautiful Kizilini Valley, where you’ll find impressive rock formations, abandoned houses, and a refreshing stream.
  • The Hamitler Trail: This 7 km trail is a combination of nature and history, as it takes you through some of the region’s most beautiful landscapes, including the picturesque Hamitler Waterfall.
  • The Taurus Mountain Trail: This 25 km trail traverses the Taurus Mountains and boasts spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Best Things to Do in Karaman: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and sightseeing, Karaman has plenty more exciting activities and tours to offer, such as:

  • Visiting the local bazaars: The bazaars in Karaman are a great place to pick up souvenirs, local handicrafts, and other unique finds.
  • Spice and Condiment Workshops: Join a workshop and learn the art of Turkish cooking, with a focus on the region’s specialties.
  • Horse Riding: Take a horseback ride through Karaman’s beautiful countryside.
  • Paragliding: Get a bird’s eye view of Karaman’s stunning landscapes from the skies above.

Week-Long Itinerary for Karaman

Here’s a suggested itinerary to get the most of Karaman in a week:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival in Karaman, explore city center
Day 2 Visit the Karaman Castle and Karaman Museum
Day 3 Hike the Kizilini Valley Trail
Day 4 Visit Binbirkilise and explore Mut Castle
Day 5 Paragliding or horseback riding
Day 6 Visit spice and condiment workshops and explore local bazaars
Day 7 Departure from Karaman

Food and Drink Scene of Karaman

Must-Try Dishes

Karaman boasts a rich culinary tradition, with dishes typically featuring lamb, beef, and chicken. Here are a few must-try dishes:

  • Sac Kavurma: A savory lamb dish served on a cast-iron skillet with vegetables.
  • Etli Ekmek: A flatbread with minced meat and tomatoes.
  • Biberli Ekmek: A flatbread with cheese and green peppers.

Local Beverages

In Karaman, Ayran, a refreshing yogurt drink, is a popular choice among locals. Turkish tea and coffee are also widely available.

Where to Stay in Karaman: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Karaman has a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here are a few options for every budget:

  • Mavisu Hotel: This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center.
  • Kampus Apart Hotel: A budget-friendly option featuring self-catering apartments, located close to the city center.
  • Karaman Otel Patalya: A centrally located option with free Wi-Fi and a restaurant on-site.

What to Buy in Karaman: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Karaman is known for its handicrafts, with traditional kilims, carpets, and ceramics being popular souvenirs. Local spices and condiments, such as chili flakes, mint, and sumac, are also must-buys.

Local Culture and Customs of Karaman

Karaman, like the rest of Turkey, has a rich cultural heritage. Dress codes are generally conservative, with women being expected to dress modestly. Friday is the Muslim holy day, so many businesses may be closed.

Best Time to Visit Karaman

The best time to visit Karaman is between April and June, and September to November when the weather is cooler, and the crowds are smaller.

Do’s and Don’ts of Karaman

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Respect the local customs and dress code.
  • Haggle prices at the bazaar.

Don’t:

  • Visit religious sites in revealing clothing.
  • Photograph locals without their permission.
  • Touch or disturb historical artifacts.

Safety and Health

Safety in Karaman

Karaman is generally a safe city, with low levels of crime. However, it’s always advisable to take necessary precautions, such as avoiding dark alleys at night.

Health in Karaman

Medical facilities in Karaman are good, with several hospitals and clinics in the city center. Always carry adequate insurance when traveling abroad.

Getting to Karaman: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Karaman

The nearest airport to Karaman is the Konya Airport, which has flights to several destinations in Turkey.

Bus Stations Near Karaman

Karaman has a central bus station with regular services to major cities, including Ankara, Istanbul, and Antalya.

Other Options

A rental car is a convenient option for exploring the region, but it’s advisable to be aware of the driving conditions and regulations in Turkey.

How to Get Around in Karaman

Karaman’s city center is small and easy to explore on foot. Taxi and minibus services are available for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Karaman: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time in Turkey, there are several nearby destinations to explore. Here are a few:

  • Cappadocia: Known for its otherworldly rock formations and hot air balloon rides, Cappadocia is just a two-hour drive from Karaman.
  • Antalya: A popular coastal city with beautiful beaches and ancient ruins, Antalya is about a four-hour drive from Karaman.

Conclusion

Karaman is a hidden gem in Turkey, with a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its excellent hiking trails, unique cuisine, and rich history, it’s a great destination for adventurous travelers. By following our comprehensive guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Karaman.

Karaman Castle Karaman Castle Church ruins of Binbirkilise Church ruins of Binbirkilise Nefesi Sultan Medresesi Nefesi Sultan Medresesi