Pioneering smart technology in tourism
Konya has set itself apart with the extensive implementation of advanced digital solutions that enhance both urban life and tourism. The city’s Smart City Tracking Platform, the Intelligent Public Transportation System (ATUS) and the Central Traffic Operating System (METIS) are all key components of this transformation. Tourists and residents alike benefit from the integration of technologies such as live traffic updates, 360-degree virtual tours, and real-time noise control systems.
The city’s This is Konya app, available in Turkish, English, and Arabic, has become a key tool for visitors, offering personalised travel planning and real-time public transport information. Meanwhile, digital experience museums such as the Taş Bina Digital Museum and virtual exhibits ensure that visitors can explore Konya’s cultural offerings in innovative and engaging ways.
Sustainability through smart urban mobility
Konya’s vision for sustainability is deeply integrated into its urban planning, with a clear focus on green travel. The city's Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan has been instrumental in creating an extensive network of bicycle paths, the second longest in the world, while introducing smart waste collection systems and energy-efficient lighting. These initiatives have significantly reduced carbon emissions and promoted sustainable travel.
A notable example of the destination’s commitment to renewable energy is the Karapınar Solar Power Plant, which provides electricity to approximately two million people annually. Smart intersection systems and other digital solutions are helping the city optimise its use of resources and improve the quality of life for both residents and visitors.
A modern approach to accessibility
Equally focused on inclusivity, the city ensures that its tourism offerings appeal to a wide range of social groups. The restoration of iconic sites such as the Çatalhöyük Neolithic Site and the Mevlâna Museum has been designed with accessibility in mind, making them more accessible to all, including people with disabilities. The Line Announcement System at bus stations provides audio updates for visually impaired passengers, while various mobility solutions, such as dedicated bike lanes and accessible kiosks, enhance the city’s overall inclusiveness.
Celebrating culture through innovation
Konya has taken a dynamic approach to preserving and showcasing its cultural heritage. The Konya Culture Road Festival, which grew out of the city’s International Mystic Music Festival, offers a vibrant cultural experience, extending the tourist season and boosting the local economy. The festival, which incorporates digital displays and gamification, appeals to a global audience and reinforces the city's reputation as a modern cultural hub.
The smart restoration of historic sites such as Sille and the Hagia Elenia church also reflects the city’s innovative approach. By incorporating advanced scientific methods into these restorations, Konya is ensuring that its heritage is not only preserved, but also made more accessible and interactive for today’s visitors.
A data-driven strategy
The destination’s approach to smart tourism is anchored in measurable performance. The city’s environmental monitoring system tracks air quality and noise levels, while the success of tourism initiatives is evaluated through visitor data, such as the 661,000 visitors recorded at the Tropical Butterfly Garden in 2023. These insights allow Konya to continuously improve its offering, ensuring a dynamic, forward-looking tourism model that combines sustainability, accessibility, and cultural richness.