In today's modern and trendy era, the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul still shines through. Once the throne for the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, the area sits perfectly preserved in all its glory so current and future generations can admire magnificent buildings from which rulers made critical decisions that shaped the world's future. Indeed, Sultanahmet Square's political, religious, and infrastructure buildings all sit close together.
Although you can see them all slowly and with plenty of time, they can also be seen in one day. Now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, a cluster of landmarks and streets takes tourists on a whirlwind tour through Constantinople's historical timeline, and there are many hotels where people can tour attractions at their doorstep. So, let's discover this famous neighbourhood's fascinating history and significant sights.
Guide to the Sultanahmet District of Istanbul
Topkapi Palace – Home of the Ottoman Sultans
Undoubtedly, Topkapi should be the first historical site to visit, as the former home to Ottoman sultans. Like a mini city, there are romantic kiosks, pavilions, sleeping quarters, kitchens, treasury, and the armoury behind the high stone walls. However, the harem attracts the most interest. At one point, 400 rooms, led by the Sultan's mother, were home to concubines and eunuchs. If the breathtaking sites of Ottoman homes delight you, see Dolmabahce Palace, the last residence of the Ottoman sultans. When you enter, look for the 18th-century Fountain of Sultan Ahmed III, an architectural style that reflects the well-known Ottoman tulip period.
Hagia Sophia Mosque
Just around the corner sits the majestic Hagia Sofia, the world’s largest domed building at one point. Starting as a cathedral, the Ottomans, upon invading Constantinople, converted the building into a mosque. The newly formed Turkish Republic transformed into a museum in the 20th century but is now a mosque again. Visitors enter through a large stone arch doorway into the domed hall, where Islamic calligraphy plagues look down from the ceiling. A pleasant blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architectural styles forms the two-story structure and most photographed landmark. If you do not have a guide, download the Hagia Sophia audio guide to truly understand this great building.
The Blue Mosque and Rich History
Directly opposite the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, dating from 1616, dominates the skyline with six minarets, which, at the time of construction, caused much controversy in Mecca. Two hundred sixty windows and 20,000 blue tiles adorn the interior, which non-Muslims are welcome to see outside prayer times. Also known as the Sultan Ahmed Cami, after the Ottoman Sultan Ahmet I, this building provides incredible insight into Islam.
The Byzantine Hippodrome Square - Site of Chariot Races
Sitting next door, the famous Hippodrome has no grand appearance or structure like its neighbouring landmarks. Yet, the historical importance of the famous Nika riots and social centres of Byzantine Constantinople warrants time spent in the small square. The 4th-century Theodosius obelisk outshines the Walled obelisk, repaired in the 10th century, making it the must-see landmark. Septimius Severus originally built the Hippodrome in the 3rd century AD, and it was later expanded and beautified by Emperor Constantine the Great in the 4th century AD.
Islamic Arts Museum
Crossing the road, a small household has fine antique carpets depicting the cultural traditions of nomadic Turk tribes. The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, based in a former home of Pargali Ibrahim Pasa, grand vizier to Ottoman sultan Suleyman the Magnificent, highlights nomad tribe life through ethnographic displays and Islamic art pieces that perfectly demonstrate Eastern art worlds. Established in 1914, the museum's extensive collection spans 1,300 years of Islamic art, from the 7th to the 20th century. It includes masterpieces from various Islamic dynasties and regions like the Ottoman Empire, Persia, the Seljuks, and the Mamluks.
Basilica Cistern and the Heads of Medusa
Down a winding flight of stone steps, the 6th-century Byzantine Cistern (yerebatan) remains hidden from public view. Yet, Turkey's busiest city's simple and humble appearance is a calming and soothing sight. Visited by Mark Twain and featured in the James Bond film Russia with Love, carp fish, illuminated by gentle lighting, swim their way around the ancient columns of the ancient cistern leading to the head of Medusa. Uniquely known because the statue is upside down, historians assume this is symbolic, so people avoid the evil glare that in mythology turned people to stone.
Istanbul Archaeology Museums
Walking back up as if to visit Topkapi, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum perfectly portrays the history and former lands of the Ottoman Empire that, at one time, nearly stretched across half the world. Separating into three sections, including the ancient Orient and the tiled kiosk collection, the Alexander sarcophagus is the most valuable artefact of the archaeological museum. Don't be misled by the name because it did not belong to Alexander the Great, but instead, show his character carved into murals on the side.
Gulhane Park for Relaxation
Lastly, if time allows, spend time in Gulhane Park. “Gülhane” means "House of Roses," which reflects the garden's origins as part of the palace grounds. Coming alive in April during the annual tulip festival, this historical Sultanahmet park once belonged to Topkapi Palace and then opened to the public in 1912. Besides being a great relaxing place, visitors also tour the History of Islamic Science and Technology Museum. The entrance is free, and the nearest tram stop is Gülhane Station on the T1 line.
Cagaloglu Hamami Turkish Bath
For the best reviews of Turkish baths, Cagaloglu always comes out on top for an authentic experience. Initially having two entrances, one for women and one for men, this 300-year-old building also features Lokanta 1741, which serves traditional Turkish food and has a Michelin star. A Turkish bath is the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing; however, don’t plan anything big for the evening because it will truly leave you feeling relaxed.
Arasta Bazaar
Within walking distance, the Arasta bazaar is a great market to shop for souvenirs and get an insight into Turkish culture through the traditional carpets and rugs sold within. Stores sit near cafes and restaurants should you want to eat in between sightseeing. Wandering the cobbled streets slowly, storekeepers will likely beckon you to buy other souvenirs like Turkish delight. However, the best version in Istanbul is Haci Bektas.
Grand Bazaar
This remarkable building sits about ten minutes away from the historic sights of Sultan Ahmet Square, yet is a must-see, as Turkey's largest and oldest covered market. Forget boutique markets because this is all about traditional Turkish shopping. Sellers are grouped according to what they sell, and for substantial purchases, bargain on prices because vendors expect it. If you want to continue the shopping experience, walk a short distance and visit the aromatic spice market near the 16th-century New Mosque in Istanbul’s Eminönü quarter. Also known as the spice bazaar, this smaller market with fewer crowds displays a bit of culture through delightful shopping experiences.
Cross the Galata Bridge for More Historic Sites
If you have more time to explore, cross the Galata Bridge to explore the other side of European Istanbul. Full of artisan neighbourhoods, Galata Tower’s viewing platform at the top, a short distance from the bridge, gives fantastic views over the Golden Horn. Galataport, the leading cruise port, is nearby; while heading further uphill is the beginning of Istiklal Street, which runs through the Beyoglu area to Taksim Square. This is Turkey's longest and busiest street, featuring beautiful buildings like the Flower Passage and Saint Anthony of Padua church.
Summary - Why is Sultanahmet Famous?
Sultanahmet is famous because it was the former ruling centre of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Known for architectural quality, many captivating buildings are 400 years or older. Since ancient times, it has been an important place, and these days, the fantastic sights are Turkey's top tourist attractions. It also portrays history and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
How to Get to the Sultanahmet District from Other Parts of Istanbul
The T1 Kabataş-Bağcılar Tram Line is the easiest and most convenient way to reach Sultanahmet. From Kabataş or Eminönü, travel eastward toward Bağcılar and get off at the Sultanahmet stop. From areas like Zeytinburnu or Aksaray, ravel westward toward Kabataş and get off at Sultanahmet. If you're coming from areas served by the M2 Metro Line, like Taksim or Şişli, take the M2 Metro to Vezneciler or Yenikapı and then transfer to the T1 Tram Line at Aksaray.
If you come from Asian Istanbul, the Marmaray Line stops at Sirkeci. From there, Sultanahmet is a 10–15 minute walk or a short ride on the T1 tram line. Several buses also run to Eminönü or Beyazıt, close to Sultanahmet. Taxi services are everywhere in Istanbul, and you can use apps like BiTaksi or iTaksi to ensure you’re using a metered taxi. Remember, if you use public transport to get an Istanbul Kart, the city's universal transportation card, to save money and make travel easier across all public transport modes.
Where to See the Old City Walls?
The old city walls, called the Theodosian Walls, after the 5th century Roman Emperor Theodosius II, surrounded ancient Constantinople and still exist at some point or have been renovated in others. At the southern end, near the Marmara Sea, is Yedikule Fortress, which has excellent views, including the Golden Gate. The Edirne Kapi section, near the Golden Horn, is the best-preserved part, and you can visit the nearby Chora Church (Kariye Mosque) while there. Additionally, the Blachernae Palace Section was integrated into the walls and is open to the public today as the Porphyrogenitus Museum. Any small-group walking tour will take you to view certain sections.
Is the Istanbul Museum Card Worth it?
The Istanbul Museum Card allows visitors to skip ticket lines and includes admission fees to museums and historical sites managed by Turkey's Ministry of Culture and Tourism. There are three versions, depending on how many sites you want to see, and they can be purchased online from the official website or at ticket booths surrounding attractions. Within Sultanahmet, the Museum card covers the Topkapi palace, but not the harem section, which needs an additional ticket, as well as the Istanbul Archaeological Museums. Even though the Hagia Sophia needs an entrance ticket, they have removed its inclusion from the Istanbul Museum card. They are worth purchasing if you plan to see everything but not if you want to visit a few sites.
More About European Istanbul
Sitting on the western Bosphorus Strait banks, the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul belongs to the European side, a mesmerising tapestry of Turkey's history, culture, and city life. Life seamlessly blends the remnants of ancient Constantinople with modern and cosmopolitan ambiences. Beyond the urban buzz, expect breathtaking natural beauty. Remember, this is Turkey's largest city, built on seven hills, with many beautiful landscapes. The European side is Turkey's number one tourist destination and a hub for buying real estate. (About the European Side.)
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