Sultanahmet is the heart of Istanbul’s Old City, where history, culture, and breathtaking architecture come together. This is where you’ll find Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, from Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to Topkapı Palace and Basilica Cistern.
I’ve spent countless days wandering through Sultanahmet’s cobbled streets, exploring hidden gems, and enjoying some of the best Turkish cuisine in the city. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back to soak in its charm, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your time in Sultanahmet, Istanbul.
Sultanahmet at a Glance
Sultanahmet is the most historic and tourist-friendly district in Istanbul. It’s the city’s cultural hub, packed with world-famous sites and surrounded by stunning Ottoman-era architecture.
✔️ Home to Istanbul’s Top Attractions – Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, Basilica Cistern, and more!
✔️ Rich History & Architecture – Walk in the footsteps of sultans and emperors in the city’s oldest quarter.
✔️ Easy to Explore – A compact, pedestrian-friendly area perfect for sightseeing.
✔️ Great Food & Cafés – Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine in charming Ottoman-style restaurants.
✔️ Breathtaking Views – See the Bosphorus, Golden Horn, and Marmara Sea from iconic spots.
Sultanahmet (the Old City) is one of the most visited sites in Istanbul. A tourist center combining the history, architecture, culture and art, Istanbul’s old city and historical zone, communications hub and an important sightseeing, entertainment & shopping area for the tourists for having a nice Istanbul old city walking tour.
It is the historical part and heart of Istanbul. It is the former heart of the Ottoman Empire and so named after the Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I. Istanbul is known as a city of seven hills, and Sultanahmet is the first hill of Istanbul.
With the popular sights from the three empires, such as the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome and the Basilica Cistern, Sultanahmet is a natural magnet to millions of tourists in Istanbul also with its variety of souvenirs and carpets, restaurants and cafe, hotels and guest houses. The relatively traffic free region makes it easy to explore around on foot and by tram.
As you wander through its narrow streets, every building and every stone you encounter unveils deep traces of the past. Sultanahmet is an indispensable stop not only for tourists but also for history enthusiasts and photography lovers.
If you only have one day in Istanbul, Sultanahmet should be at the top of your list!
Since Sultanahmet Square and its surrounding area are closed to vehicle traffic and the attractions are very close to each other, you can easily explore Sultanahmet on foot. If you want to go to Eminönü or Beyazıt, you can use the tram.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Sultanahmet For a Day: Our Best Itinerary
Spending a day in Sultanahmet? Here’s the perfect itinerary to explore the area’s top sights, historic landmarks, and local flavors in just one day. You don’t have to do ll of them of course.
Morning: Start with History
- Hagia Sophia – Arrive early to beat the crowds and admire one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.
- Blue Mosque – Just across the square, step inside this architectural masterpiece and soak in its stunning Iznik tiles.
- Million Stone – A quick stop at this ancient marker, once used to measure distances across the Roman Empire.
- Topkapı Palace – Explore the Ottoman sultans’ grand residence, visit the Imperial Treasury, and walk through the beautiful courtyards.
- Gülhane Park – Take a short break in this serene green space before heading to lunch.
Lunch: A Taste of Ottoman Cuisine
- Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine – Try historic dishes inspired by the Ottoman Palace kitchen.
- Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi – For something quick, enjoy the famous grilled köfte (meatballs) with piyaz (bean salad).
- Seven Hills Restaurant – If you prefer stunning rooftop views, this is the place to be.
Afternoon: Museums & Hidden Gems
- Basilica Cistern – Step underground to see the mystical Medusa Heads and ancient water reservoir.
- Istanbul Archaeology Museums – A must-visit for history lovers, featuring artifacts from Mesopotamia, Anatolia, and ancient Egypt.
- Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum – Home to rare manuscripts, calligraphy, and stunning Turkish carpets.
- Soğukçeşme Street – Stroll through this picturesque Ottoman-era street, lined with charming wooden houses.
- Hürrem Sultan Hamamı – Unwind with a traditional Turkish bath experience.
Evening: Sunset & Dinner
- Sultanahmet Square – Relax in the main square as the sun sets over Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
- Arasta Bazaar – Shop for handmade Turkish textiles, ceramics, and souvenirs.
- Spice Bazaar – For authentic Turkish delights, spices, and dried fruits, this is the best stop.
- Dinner in Kumkapı – Head to this famous seafood district for a lively dinner experience with fresh fish and mezes.
Night: A Magical End to the Day
- Whirling Dervish Show – Witness the spiritual Sufi dance performance at the Hodjapasha Cultural Center.
- Bosphorus Night Cruise – If time allows, enjoy a dinner cruise with live entertainment along the Bosphorus Strait.
- Turkish Coffee at a Historic Café – End the night with a cup of strong Turkish coffee at Hafız Mustafa or Pierre Loti Café.
This one-day itinerary covers the best of Sultanahmet, blending history, culture, and delicious food for a memorable experience!
Things to Do & See
Sultanahmet is rich in places to visit and activities to do. The first stop should definitely be Hagia Sophia. With its thousands of years of history, it presents the finest examples of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. With its mosaics, dome, and historical atmosphere, Hagia Sophia offers visitors a journey through time.
Right across from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque dazzles with its blue tiles and six minarets. Walking through the courtyard of the mosque and breathing in the serene atmosphere inside provides an unforgettable experience.
A short walk from Sultanahmet Square takes you to Topkapi Palace, ideal for those who want to discover the splendor and administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. The Harem section of the palace offers insights into the private lives of the sultans, while the palace gardens and views showcase the beauties of Istanbul.
The Basilica Cistern is also a must-see. This underground water reservoir offers a mesmerizing experience with its mystical atmosphere and columns. In Sultanahmet, it is possible to encounter new historical and cultural riches at every corner.
As a tourist area, Sultanahmet also has countless cafes and restaurants. Here, you can relax, sip your tea, and enjoy the delicious flavors of Turkish and international cuisine.
Sultanahmet Square
Sultanahmet square, also known as Hippodrome and surrounded by the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, is a popular meeting point and very impressive tourist zone of Sultanahmet leading to all historical sites around Sultanahmet.
The 4th century hippodrome from the Byzantium era, the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpentine Column, the Colossus or Column of Costantine Porphyrgenitus, the German Fountain are the main sights in the square.
Highlights:
- Million Stone – A Roman-era marker that was once the “zero point” of the world for measuring distances in the Byzantine Empire.
- Obelisk of Theodosius – An ancient Egyptian obelisk, brought to Constantinople by Emperor Theodosius in the 4th century.
- German Fountain – A gift from Kaiser Wilhelm II, this stunning fountain stands as a symbol of Ottoman-German relations.
- Sultan III. Ahmet Fountain – An 18th-century Ottoman fountain with intricate floral motifs and calligraphy.
Wanna learn more about Sultanahmet Square?
Obelisk (Dikilitaş)
Located in Sultanahmet Square, the Obelisk has a history that stretches from ancient Egypt to Istanbul. This granite obelisk was erected by Pharaoh Thutmose III in the 15th century BCE and was brought to Istanbul by the Byzantine Emperor Theodosius I. The Obelisk stands out with its hieroglyphic inscriptions and magnificent craftsmanship.
The history of the Obelisk reveals Istanbul’s multicultural heritage and the traces of different civilizations. The monument reflects both the splendor of the Byzantine period and the rich history of the Ottoman Empire.
Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque) is one of the most beautiful mosques and landmarks in both Istanbul and the world. It was built in the 17th century (1603-1617) with the order of Sultan Ahmet I.
Its name comes from the very beautiful blue interior “Iznik tiles”. It is a great sample of the Turkish and Islamic architecture and one of the most visited sights and mosques in Istanbul.
Tip: Visit outside prayer times to avoid waiting in long lines.
Hagia Sophia
Dating back to 325, Hagia Sophia is a former church and museum and declared as one of the world’s greatest architectural works and accepted as the 8th wonder of the world. Hagia Sophia is also one of the most visited landmarks and museums in Istanbul and in the world.
Serving as a museum since 1935, a decree on 10th of July 2020 to formally declare the Hagia Sophia as a mosque, after Turkey’s administrative court annulled a 1934-dated decision that paved the way for the use of Hagia Sophia as a museum.
Don’t Miss:
- The massive Byzantine dome and golden mosaics.
- The Weeping Column, believed to bring good luck.
- Stunning Islamic calligraphy alongside Christian artwork.
Skip-the-line Tickets
- Hagia Sophia Skip the line Ticket with Audio Guide and Augment Reality
- Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Ticket with Audio Tour
- Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Ticket & Museum Option
Combo Tours & Tickets
Topkapi Palace Museum
One of world’s richest museums, Topkapi Palace Museum is a magnificent oriental palace and one of the world’s greatest architectural works. It was the residence of the Ottoman sultans as well as the administrative and educational center of the Empire. It houses the finest samples of seal, book binding, jewelry and box craftsmanship as well as inscriptions.
The former imperial kitchen houses the finest collection of Chinese porcelain in the world. The Sultans’ costumes also exhibited there. The Treasury has a breathtaking and excellent collection of jewels such as emeralds, rubies and diamonds adorn turban crests, swords, golden thrones embroidered with seed pearls.
And finally comes the famous Harem, the private part of the palace where the wives and concubines of the sultans were lived.
Highlights:
- The Harem Section (separate ticket needed).
- The Imperial Treasury, showcasing priceless artifacts.
- The Palace Gardens, perfect for relaxing.
Skip-the-line Tickets
- Guided Entry - Topkapi Palace & Harem Skip the line Ticket with Audio Guide
- Topkapi Palace & Harem Museum Ticket & Audio Guide
- Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour Skip-the-Line Ticket
Guided tours with Fast Track Tickets
Combo Tours & Tickets
Sogukcesme Street
Sogukcesme Street is a captivating place that transports visitors to the past with its historical texture. This narrow street, paved with cobblestones, is surrounded by wooden houses dating back to the Ottoman period.
The houses on the street showcase Istanbul’s old way of life with their elegant architecture and historical texture. As you walk along the street, you can feel that each house has its own unique story.
At one end of Sogukcesme Street lies Hagia Sophia, while at the other end stands Topkapi Palace. Thanks to this location, it is only a few steps away from Istanbul’s most important historical sites.
Hagia Irene Museum
Dating back to 4th century, the Hagia Irene, formerly church, now a museum, also serves as a center cultural activities and exhibitions and it is situated inside the 1st court of the Topkapi Palace Museum.
It consists of three sections that include; the naos, narthex and atrium, while the standing atrium is the only surviving sample from the Byzantine period. Read more about Hagia Irene Museum
Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
Located at the Ibrahim Pasha Palace, Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts is one of the most important buildings of 16th century Ottoman civil architecture. The museum displays very unique, more than over 40,000 items at the carpet, manuscript, wood, glass-metal-ceramic and ethnography sections.
Istanbul Archaeology Museums
One of the richest archaeology museums in the world, Istanbul Archaeology Museums consist of three separate museums on the site that include the Archaeology Museum, the Museum of the Ancient Orient and the Tiled Pavilion.
Museums house over one million immense collection from various civilizations such as Assyrian, Hittite, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman civilizations that had deep effect throughout the history.
Basilica Cistern
One of the most impressive and mystical buildings in Istanbul, Basilica Cistern is a very quiet and peaceful place conveyed by the columns through impressive arches. The columns, including the legendary Medusa Heads, were compiled from the ancient structures and sculpted of several kinds of marbles.
Tip: Bring a camera—this place is Instagram gold!
Skip-the-line Tickets
- Basilica Cistern Tickets with Fast Track Entry & Audio Guide
- Basilica Cistern Fast-Track Entry w/ Audio Guide
- Basilica Cistern Skip the Line Ticket
Guided tours with Fast Track Tickets
- Basilica Cistern Guided Tour & Skip the Line Ticket
- Basilica Cistern Tour and Skip The Line with Guide
- Basilica Cistern Skip the Line Tickets + Tour
- Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Ticket with Guided Tour
Combo Tours & Tickets
Arasta Bazaar
A smaller and more relaxed alternative to the Grand Bazaar, Arasta Çarşısı is a hidden marketplace behind the Blue Mosque.
- Browse for handmade carpets, ceramics, jewelry, and Turkish souvenirs.
- Enjoy the less chaotic shopping experience with friendly vendors and authentic local products.
Great Palace Mosaics Museum
Also known as Istanbul Mosaics Museum, Great Palace Mosaics Museum is an impressive mosaics museum situated in the Arasta Bazaar within the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque) complex. The mosaics at the museum has themes from daily life, nature and mythology.
Hurrem Sultan Hamam (Turkish Bath)
Located between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, this historical hammam was commissioned by Roxelana (Hürrem Sultan), the wife of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent.
- Experience a traditional Turkish bath and massage.
- Admire the classical Ottoman architecture inside the hammam.
Fountain of Sultan Ahmet III
Located in front of the Topkapi Palace Impreail Gate, it is a very beautiful baroque style fountain that was built in 1728.
German Fountain
Located in between the Sultanahmet Square and the Blue Mosque, the German Foutain, also known as “Fountain of Kaiser Wilhelm II”, is a very beautiful fountain with that has great architecture with columns and a beautiful dome.
From Sultanahmet to Beyazit
A walk from Sultanahmet to Beyazit turns into a captivating journey through Istanbul’s history-laden streets. This route showcases the rich past of the city by passing through its most significant historical and cultural landmarks.
As you continue past Cemberlitas, you’ll encounter the enchanting world of the Grand Bazaar. With over 4,000 shops, this historic bazaar is filled with a variety of goods such as gold, silver, carpets, and spices.
After exiting the bazaar, you will reach Beyazit Square. At the center of the square lies the Beyazit Mosque and surrounding historic buildings that carry traces of the Ottoman era. Beyazit Square also hosts the main gate of Istanbul University.
Before leaving Beyazit Square, be sure to visit the Sahaflar Book Market, where you can lose yourself among old books and antiques.
Cemberlitas
Cemberlitas is located between Sultanahmet and Beyazit. The column, erected by Byzantine Emperor Constantine I in the 4th century AD, is one of Istanbul’s oldest monuments. Despite undergoing various restorations over time, Cemberlitas still retains its original grandeur.
Surrounding the column are the Cemberlitas Bath and other historical structures, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of this area. The bath is an excellent stop for those wanting to experience the traditional bath culture of the Ottoman period.
Beyazit Square
Beyazit Square is a significant meeting and transit point in Istanbul’s historic peninsula. At the center of the square stands the Beyazit Mosque, built by Sultan Bayezid II in the 15th century, exemplifying beautiful Ottoman architecture.
With its historical buildings, spacious square, and surrounding shops, Beyazit is an ideal spot for those who wish to experience both historic and modern Istanbul simultaneously.
Sahaflar Book Market
Sahaflar Book Market is located right next to Beyazit Square, behind the Grand Bazaar. This market is a paradise for book lovers, having been a center of book trade since the Ottoman period. As you walk through its narrow streets, you can lose yourself among shops filled with old and new books, rare works, and antiques.
Here, you can find a wide range of items, from Ottoman books to old magazines, historical documents to maps.
From Sultanahmet to Sirkeci
Walking from Sultanahmet to Sirkeci, you pass through Gulhane Park and eventually reach Sirkeci Station. This historic station, which once welcomed passengers from all over Europe, symbolizes Istanbul’s connection to the world.
Upon arriving in Sirkeci, you’ll be greeted by the lively and bustling atmosphere of the area. Fish restaurants, coffeehouses, and historic shops add a unique color to the region.
If you continue your walk towards Eminönü from here, you can explore the vibrant, spice-filled world of the Spice Bazaar and experience the charm of the historic peninsula with the cool breeze of the Bosphorus.
Gulhane Park
Located in between the Sultanahmet and Eminonu, Gulhane Park (Rose Garden) is undoubtedly one of Istanbul’s most famous and most visited parks, ranking among the top Istanbul parks. Known for its beautiful gardens, flowers, fountains, and resting areas, Gülhane Park was once used to cultivate roses for the Topkapı Palace during the Ottoman period.
There is also a Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam in the park, a unique one in the world that worth a see.
Sirkeci Station
Sirkeci Station is one of the most important transportation hubs in the historic peninsula. This magnificent structure, opened in 1890, became famous as the final stop of the Orient Express.
The station’s architecture reflects a style where East and West meet. This structure, blending neo-classical elements with Ottoman architecture, stands out with its rich details and elegant design.
Sirkeci Station functions not only as a train station but also as a cultural center hosting various events, such as Whirling Dervishes Show. Exhibitions, concerts, and other activities here offer visitors the chance to be immersed in art and culture in a historical setting. Additionally, the nearby cafes and restaurants provide a perfect place to relax and enjoy the historic atmosphere.
Spice Bazaar
The Spice Bazaar is a shopping haven renowned for its spices, dried fruits, and vibrant market atmosphere. Built in 1660, this historic bazaar was originally known as the “New Bazaar” during the Ottoman period but became known as the “Spice Bazaar” due to the goods from Egypt sold here.
As you step into the bazaar, the aromas of spices and the lively colors reveal Istanbul’s rich trade history. The Spice Bazaar offers a variety of spices, herbal teas, dried fruits, Turkish delight, and many other traditional products. Each of these meticulously displayed items offers visitors a visual and sensory feast.
After leaving the bazaar, you can take a short walk to the Galata Bridge and other historic points in Eminönü, spending an unforgettable day in the heart of Istanbul.
From Sultanahmet to the Coast
On the roads descending from Sultanahmet to the coast, you will have the chance to discover different faces of Istanbul as you move among old Ottoman mansions and historical structures. Especially the areas of Küçükayasofya, Kadırga, Cankurtaran, and Kumkapı are among the most interesting stops on this walk.
Küçük Ayasofya
Küçük Ayasofya (Little Hagia Sophia) is an important area located close to Sultanahmet. It takes its name from the Küçük Ayasofya Mosque in the area, a site of historical significance. The mosque was originally built as the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus during the Byzantine period and was later converted into a mosque in the Ottoman era.
Küçük Ayasofya is also famous for its historical and cultural richness. With its narrow streets, old houses, and historical texture, it sheds light on Istanbul’s past. The area is preferred by both tourists and locals, and offers a rich experience for visitors with its historical and architectural significance.
Sokullu Mehmet Pasa Mosque
Built by the renowned architect Mimar Sinan in 1557, the Sokollu Mehmet Pasha Mosque is situated in the Küçük Ayasofya neighborhood, commanding a prime position on the historic peninsula. It is a 10-15 minute walk from Sultanahmet Square towards the sea.
Kadırga
Kadırga is a charming neighborhood located slightly outside Sultanahmet, in a quieter, more local corner of the historic peninsula. It is filled with many mosques, baths, and fountains from the Ottoman period. Kadırga Square is considered the heart of the neighborhood, surrounded by historical structures like the Kadırga Bath and Sokollu Mehmet Pasha Mosque, showcasing the area’s rich history.
Kadırga is also a place where you can witness Istanbul’s local life as you walk through its streets. Small shops, neighborhood markets, and traditional eateries will make you feel the authentic atmosphere of the area.
Cankurtaran
Cankurtaran is a charming neighborhood located right next to Sultanahmet and along the shore of the Marmara Sea. At the junction of history and the sea, the area is one of the rare places where the old Istanbul atmosphere is still preserved. With its narrow streets, wooden Ottoman houses, and historical structures, Cankurtaran takes its visitors on a journey through time.
While walking in Cankurtaran, you can take a break in Cankurtaran Park, an ideal spot to relax by the sea. From here, you can enjoy the sea view and feel the cool breeze of the Marmara Sea. The coastal walking paths are perfect for morning and evening strolls. Various cafes and restaurants in the neighborhood offer many options to taste Turkish cuisine with a sea view.
One of the most striking points in Cankurtaran is the historic Istanbul Walls. These walls, dating back to the Byzantine period, were an essential part of Istanbul’s defense system.
Kumkapı
Kumkapı is another lively and colorful district located along the Marmara Sea. Known for its seafood restaurants, Kumkapı has been a popular spot for fishermen and sailors since the Ottoman period. As you walk through the streets of the district, you can smell the sea and encounter numerous restaurants offering fresh seafood at every corner.
Kumkapı comes alive, especially in the evening. The seafood restaurants offer a delightful dining experience with live music. Popular among both locals and tourists, these restaurants serve the freshest fish and seafood in the most delicious ways. Walking through the streets, you can feel the old Istanbul atmosphere and pass by historic buildings and colorful houses.
Another notable feature of Kumkapı is its Armenian and Greek churches, reflecting the district’s rich cultural and religious diversity.
Old City (Sultanahmet) Walking Tours
Istanbul Highlights Small-Group Walking Guided Tour
This is one of the best one that covers all the must-see sights along the historical peninsula in Istanbul. Has great traveler ratings and comments. A Small-group tour with a maximum of 14 people ensures personalized attention from a guide.
This is an innovative and new generation city walking tour with professional guides. You can experience and enjoy the unlimited sights and sounds of the city at this Walking Tour, discover the very best of Istanbul, experience local markets, taste Turkish delights and visit the most popular Instagram spots.
Read more & Book this Walking Tour
Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Guided Tour w/ Tickets
This is offered by Walks in Europe and we highly recommend. You’ll discover and enjoy all the historical buildings from outside that surround the ancient imperial square of Istanbul. Between the monuments, your guide will take you through the ages of Istanbul – from antiquity to modern times.
Read more & Book this Walking Tour
Topkapi, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Tour
You’ll visit the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern in Istanbul on a tour with priority entry tickets. Explore the heart of the old town of Sultanahmet and see the major highlights.
Read more & Book this Walking Tour
Bespoke Tour with Guide and Skip-the-Line Entries
This is a superb private experience and introduction to Istanbul especially for the first-time visitors. You’ll enjoy this private guided full-day tour to discover the best of Istanbul. The tour can is fully customizable to suit your needs, simply tell your tour guide what interests you the most.
Read more & Book this Walking Tour
Best of the City Private Full-Day Walking Tour
This is a great private walking tour of Istanbul that you’ll enjoy a royal welcome to Istanbul with a full-day private guided tour. Get whisked to the front of the queue at the city’s most popular attractions with your guide’s priority entrance pass.
Read more & Book this Walking Tour
Hagia Sophia & Hippodrome Tour with Local Expert
This is also a great private walking tour of Istanbul that you’ll combine an old city tour with a Hagia Sophia tour. Choose the time that suits you best, meet your guide at the Dsign Cafe in front of the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum located on the Hippodrome, right next to Egyptian Obelisk, and enter together. Enjoy a highlights tour and learn all the interesting facts about the building with an audio guide.
Read more & Book this Walking Tour
Dining in Sultanahmet – Popular Restaurants
Sultanahmet is famous not only for its rich history but also for its gastronomic diversity. Sultanahmet is live for 24 hrs. and this popular tourist zone of course offers wide range of dining opportunities from luxury restaurants to very famous quality restaurants and cafes where both tourists and locals go. You are able to find every kind of food & beverage, Turkish & world cuisine for your taste in Sultanahmet.
Best Restaurants in Sultanahmet
✔️ Matbah Restaurant – Perfect for Ottoman-era cuisine in a historic setting.
✔️ Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine – Fancy sultan-style dishes with great service.
✔️ Balıkçı Sabahattin – A must-visit for fresh seafood lovers.
See Our Picks of the Best Restaurants in Sultanahmet
Best Local Eateries
✔️ Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi – Famous for Turkish meatballs (köfte).
✔️ Sofya Kebab House – Cozy spot for grilled kebabs and pide (Turkish pizza).
✔️ Fuego Café & Restaurant – Great for casual meals and Turkish tea.
Best Cafés & Dessert Shops
✔️ Hafiz Mustafa 1864 – The best baklava and Turkish delight in Istanbul!
✔️ Seven Hills Restaurant – Amazing rooftop café with Hagia Sophia views.
✔️ Pierre Loti Café – Relax with a Turkish coffee and Bosphorus view.
Where to Go Shopping
Sultanahmet is home to some of Istanbul’s most famous bazaars and specialty shops, making it a great area for picking up souvenirs, handicrafts, and unique gifts.
- Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) – One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops selling jewelry, carpets, ceramics, spices, and leather goods.
- Arasta Bazaar – A smaller and quieter alternative to the Grand Bazaar, located behind the Blue Mosque, known for handmade textiles, kilims, and ceramics.
- Spice Market – A paradise for Turkish spices, dried fruits, tea, coffee, and traditional sweets.
- Old Book Bazaar – A historic book market near the Grand Bazaar, offering rare manuscripts, second-hand books, and antique prints.
Where to Stay?
Sultanahmet is one of the best places to stay in Istanbul. Mostly preferred with the travelers that are a true enthusiast of history and want to see the city’s historic sites, such as the most visited museums, palaces, mosques, etc.
Sultanahmet, offering various accommodation options, caters to all kinds of visitors. From best Sultanahmet hotels where you can feel the historical texture to luxurious accommodation alternatives, many options are available.
See Our Picks of the Best Hotels in Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet by Night
While Sultanahmet is quieter at night compared to areas like Taksim or Karaköy, there are still plenty of things to do after sunset.
- Admire Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque at Night – The illuminated facades of these landmarks create a breathtaking view, perfect for an evening walk.
- Enjoy a Rooftop Dinner with a View – Many restaurants, such as Seven Hills and Olive Anatolian Restaurant, offer panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus.
- Experience a Traditional Whirling Dervish Show – Visit the Hodjapasha Cultural Center to witness the mystical Sufi dance performance.
- Relax in a Historic Turkish Bath – Try a hammam experience at Cağaloğlu Hamamı or Hürrem Sultan Hamamı for a traditional Turkish bath ritual.
- Sip Turkish Tea at a Cozy Café – Enjoy a late-night çay (tea) or salep (hot milk drink with cinnamon) at a local tea house near Gülhane Park or Soğukçeşme Sokağı.
- Catch a Bosphorus Dinner Cruise – Some night cruises include live music, belly dancing, and traditional Turkish performances, all while sailing along the Bosphorus Strait.
Sultanahmet may not have the wild nightlife of Beyoğlu, but it’s a magical place to explore after dark, offering relaxing and cultural experiences.
Whirling Dervishes Show
Whirling Dervishes Show is one of the most visited Istanbul attractions with the tourists. It is because that this ceremony is a very unusual event for the tourists and when they hear about it, majority of them try to catch this one hour show and witness the miracle of the whirling dervishes.
There are two popular venues that you can watch this show. Book your tickets online in advance as they are selling out quickly.
Buy Whirling Dervishes Show Tickets at Hodjapasha Culture Center
Buy Whirling Dervishes Show Tickets at Orient Express Hall
Wanna learn more about Whirling Dervishes Show?
How to Get to There?
Public Transportation
Getting to Sultanahmet is very easy as Sultanahmet is one of the most popular hubs for both tourists and locals in Istanbul. For intercity transportation, you may find many transportation options. It is possible to access Sultanahmet;
- From Kadikoy and Uskudar; by public ferries to Eminonu and taking the Bagcilar-Kabatas tram (T1 line) from the Eminonu stop to Sultanahmet.
- From Taksim, you may take the Bagcilar-Kabatas tram (T1 line) from the Kabatas stop or the other stops along the Galata Bridge. To get to tram stops; from the Taksim Square, you may take the Taksim-Kabatas funicular (F1 line), get to Kabatas tram stop and take the tram for Sultanahmet.
- And from the end of the Istiklal Avenue, on the Tunel Square, you may walk downwards or take the Tunel-Karakoy funicular (F2 line) to get to Karakoy tram stop and take the tram for Sultanahmet.
- Check the Istanbul Railway Network Map for the Tram stops and Istanbul Ferry Lines Map for ferries.
- Also note that the Sultanahmet Square and most of the connecting roads are closed for vehicle traffic except tram and tour buses. Getting to Sultanahmet by your private car is not recommended. You’ll need to leave your car far away.
From Istanbul Airports
- please read our How to Get from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Sultanahmet page.
- please read our How to Get from Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) to Sultanahmet page.
Best Tips for Visiting Sultanahmet
✔️ Go early! – The area gets crowded, so start your day by 9 AM.
✔️ Dress modestly – Especially for Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque (women should bring a scarf).
✔️ Use a city pass – The MegaPass or E-Pass includes entry to Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and Basilica Cistern.
✔️ Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll be walking a lot on cobblestone streets.
✔️ Try local street food – Grab a simit (Turkish bagel) or roasted chestnuts.
Is Sultanahmet Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Sultanahmet is the soul of Istanbul—packed with history, stunning architecture, and incredible food. If it’s your first time in the city, this is where you should start your adventure.