Day-Wise Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

• Morning: Arrive in Istanbul and check in to your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, two iconic sites in the heart of the city.
• Evening: Enjoy a walk through the Sultanahmet Square and a traditional Turkish dinner.

Day 2: Istanbul Exploration

• Morning: Explore the Topkapi Palace, home to Ottoman sultans, and see its Islamic relics.
• Afternoon: Wander through the Grand Bazaar for souvenirs and authentic Turkish goods.
• Evening: Take a Bosporus sunset cruise to view Istanbul’s skyline from the water.

Day 3: Travel to Konya

• Morning: Take an early flight or train from Istanbul to Konya (1-hour flight or 4.5-hour train ride).
• Afternoon: Arrive in Konya, check in to your hotel, and visit the Mevlana Museum, Rumi’s mausoleum.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Konya meal, such as etli ekmek (a local flatbread with meat).

Day 4: Şeb-i Arus Ceremony (Rumi’s Death Anniversary)

• Morning: Spend time exploring Alaeddin Hill and Alaeddin Mosque, a significant Seljuk-era mosque in Konya.
• Afternoon: Attend cultural events and lectures about Rumi’s philosophy and Sufi traditions.
• Evening: Participate in the Whirling Dervish ceremonies during the Şeb-i Arus event at the Mevlana Cultural Center, which marks the climax of the celebration of Rumi’s life and teachings.

Day 5: Konya Exploration and Departure

• Morning: Visit the Karatay Medrese Museum, an ancient theological school, or take a trip to the Tomb of Shams Tabrizi, Rumi’s spiritual mentor.
• Afternoon: Return to your hotel to pack up and depart for your return journey to Istanbul or your next destination.
• Evening: Fly back to Istanbul or connect to your flight home.