Eminonu and neighboring Sirkeci are also one of the most popular tourists areas in Istanbul, as well as one of the most dynamic, bustling and tourist neighborhood of the historical peninsula. We can also call the area as oriental district. The area is also one of the main transportation hubs in Istanbul. Here you’ll find a quick guide to explore Eminonu & Sirkeci with top things to do and see plus insider advice.
Eminonu means “in front of justice” that its name came from the courts/customs associated with the docks. And Sirkeci means “vinegar-seller” while there is no records with this.
Eminonu & Sirkeci at a Glance
✔️ Home to some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, including the Spice Bazaar and New Mosque
✔️ A paradise for food lovers, featuring Turkish street food, fish sandwiches, and Ottoman sweets
✔️ A transportation hub, with ferries, trams, buses, and trains connecting all parts of Istanbul
✔️ A shopper’s dream, offering spices, textiles, souvenirs, and traditional Turkish goods
✔️ Breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and Golden Horn
Best Things to Do in Eminonu & Sirkeci
Strolling around the Eminonu Sqaure, enjoying the market area and lively city atmosphere in the company of historic buildings, having a walking by sea, watching the ferries and rest at the variety of restaurants and cafes around, is one of the best things to do in Eminonu.
The historical Egyptian Spice Bazaar, the Sirkeci Train Station and the Yeni Mosque are the main sights of Eminonu and Sirkeci. The back streets of Eminonu and Sirkeci are home to cheap electronic goods and also low-budget restaurants.
Explore Eminonu Square
Eminonu Square, is the main attraction area of Eminonu where you can see loads of locals and tourists for all day long. The tram stop, ferry docks are situated by the square, as well as the Yeni Mosque and the Egyptian Spice Bazaar.
Visit the Spice Market (Mısır Çarşısı)
The historical Egyptian Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) or so-called Spice Market, is a colorful and mystical covered spice market lined with spice stalls, situated just by the Eminonu sqaure. It is also one of the most popular covered markets in the world, together with famous Grand Bazaar.
Also called as Egyptian Spice Market, it is a popular points of interest and a perfect place with the tourists to end their Istanbul visit by shopping for some souvenirs for their beloved ones before leaving Istanbul.
What to Buy?
✔️ Saffron and Sumac – Used in Turkish and Middle Eastern dishes.
✔️ Turkish Delight (Lokum) – Available in flavors like rose, pomegranate, and pistachio.
✔️ Dried Fruits & Nuts – Great for snacks and gifts.
✔️ Herbal Teas – Traditional blends for relaxation, digestion, and energy.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Tip: Bargain with shopkeepers, especially if buying in bulk!
See the Stunning Yeni Cami (New Mosque)
Located right next to the Spice Bazaar, the New Mosque (Yeni Cami) is one of Istanbul’s most beautiful Ottoman mosques. Built in the 17th century, it features an impressive courtyard, intricate tilework, and a peaceful interior.
Tip: Visit during sunset for a spectacular view of the mosque against the Golden Horn.
Take a Ferry from Eminonu
Eminonu is one of the best places to start a ferry journey in Istanbul, offering scenic rides to the Asian side, the Princes’ Islands, and the Bosphorus.
Best Ferry Routes from Eminonu:
✔️ To Kadıköy – A lively district on the Asian side known for its food and shopping.
✔️ To Üsküdar – Visit Mihrimah Sultan Mosque and Maiden’s Tower.
✔️ Bosphorus Tour – Take a cruise along the Bosphorus to see palaces and mansions.
Tip: The sunset ferry to Kadıköy offers stunning skyline views!
Pass the Galata Bridge
The Galata bridge is situated at the mouth of the Golden Horn and connects Galata and Eminonu neighborhoods. There are several cafes and restaurants under the bridge.
Relax at Gulhane Park
Located in between the Sultanahmet and Eminonu, Gulhane Park (Rose Garden) is one of the most beautiful parks in Istanbul for both tourists and locals. The park covers a huge area. There are variety of very beautiful gardens, trees, pools and outdoor cafes with the impressive views of the Bosphorus.
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.
Visit the Museum of Islamic Science and History of Technology
Located located in the Imperial Stables building in Gulhane Park, the Museum of Islamic Science and History of Technology displays samples of tools and devices, some of which are surviving original pieces and some prepared by the University of Frankfurt’s Institute of Arabic and Islamic Sciences according to drawings and descriptions in reference books.
Explore Sirkeci Station – The Last Stop of the Orient Express
Sirkeci Station is one of Istanbul’s most historic train stations, once the final stop of the legendary Orient Express.
Inside, you’ll find:
✔️ The Orient Express Restaurant – A classic Ottoman-style café.
✔️ The Railway Museum – Showcasing historical locomotives, tickets, and photos from the golden age of train travel.
Tip: If you love history, Sirkeci Station is a fascinating stop for photography and nostalgia.
Entertainment
Mystical night out at the Whirling Dervishes Show
Whirling Dervishes Show or Ceremony (“Sema” in Turkish) is one of the most visited attractions in Istanbul with the tourists. The best performances take place at the Hodjapasha Cultural Center in Sirkeci, within a 550 years old historical building that was once an Ottoman bath.
Note that as this show is very popular among the majority of the tourists, you should buy your tickets at least 2 or 3 days before the show.
Fun night out at the Rhythm of the Dance Show (Turkish Dance)
The Rhythm of the Dance Show, also called as Turkish Dance, is one of the one time experiences in Istanbul for the tourists in an exclusive and cozy show atmosphere. The show takes place at the famous Hodjapasha Cultural Center.
Eating Out
Eminonu and Sirkeci offers wide range of dining opportunities from luxury restaurants to very famous quality restaurants and cafes where both tourists and locals go. The artisan restaurants are also very popular and offer budget dining. You are able to find every kind of food & beverage, Turkish & world cuisine for your taste in Eminonu and Sirkeci region.
Walk Along the Eminonu Waterfront & Try a Fish Sandwich
Fish sandwich, called as “Balik Ekmek” in Turkish, is a very famous and delicious street food served from the fishing boats, made of grilled white fish, raw onions, and salad stuffed in a half loaf of white bread. It is a classic for both locals and tourists when they have a break in Eminonu shore, on the Golden Horn side.
Where to Go Shopping
Eminonu & Sirkeci are historic shopping districts of Istanbul, home to bustling markets, spice bazaars, and hidden local gems.
If you’re looking for authentic Turkish products, souvenirs, or gourmet delights, this is the perfect place to shop.
- Mısır Çarşısı (Spice Bazaar) – One of Istanbul’s most famous bazaars, offering spices, dried fruits, Turkish delight, and herbal teas.
- 💎 Mahmutpaşa Bazaar – A lively street market where you can find affordable textiles, scarves, accessories, and traditional clothing.
- 🍯 Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi – The best place for Turkish coffee, where you can buy freshly ground beans or pre-packaged coffee.
- 🛍️ Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) – While technically in Beyazıt, it’s just a short walk away and a must-visit for carpets, jewelry, ceramics, and leather goods.
- 👜 Ali Muhiddin Hacı Bekir – The oldest Turkish delight shop in Istanbul, serving authentic lokum and Ottoman sweets since 1777.
- 📿 Tahtakale Markets – A maze of wholesalers selling everything from home goods to perfumes and accessories.
Tip: Bargaining is expected in most shops and markets—start with a lower price and negotiate with a smile!
Eminonu & Sirkeci by Night
Although Eminonu is quieter after dark, Sirkeci has a lively food scene and evening activities. Here’s how you can enjoy the area at night:
- Galata Bridge Walk – Stroll along the bridge at sunset, watch the fishermen, and admire the Bosphorus views.
- Balık Ekmek at Eminonu – Try the famous grilled fish sandwich from a docked boat near Eminonu Square.
- Pandeli Restaurant – A historic Ottoman-style eatery inside the Spice Bazaar, serving classic Turkish dishes.
- Hafız Mustafa 1864 – Famous for Turkish desserts like baklava, kazandibi, and rice pudding.
- Hodjapasha Cultural Center – Watch a mesmerizing Whirling Dervish performance in a historic setting.
- Bosphorus Dinner Cruise – Enjoy a scenic cruise with dinner and live music, departing from Eminonu or Sirkeci piers.
Tip: Many historic restaurants and dessert shops in Sirkeci stay open late, making it a great spot for a sweet treat before heading back to your hotel.
Where to Stay in Eminonu & Sirkeci
For those who want to stay close to Istanbul’s historic sites, Eminonu & Sirkeci are fantastic options.
- Luxury Stay: Legacy Ottoman Hotel – A beautiful Ottoman-style hotel in the heart of Sirkeci.
- Mid-Range Stay: Euro Design Hotel – A stylish boutique hotel just steps from the Spice Bazaar.
- Budget Stay: Second Home Hostel – A friendly and affordable place for backpackers.
Tip: Sirkeci hotels offer easy access to the tram and ferry, making it a great base for exploring Istanbul.
Nearby Attractions
- Topkapı Palace – The former residence of Ottoman sultans.
- Hagia Sophia – Istanbul’s most famous landmark.
- Grand Bazaar – One of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets.
- Basilica Cistern – A stunning underground water reservoir from Byzantine times.
- Galata Bridge – A great place to watch fishermen and enjoy Istanbul’s skyline.
How to Get to Eminonu & Sirkeci
- By Tram – Take the T1 tram line to Eminonu or Sirkeci.
- By Metro – Use M2 metro to Haliç Station, then walk.
- By Bus – Many buses stop at Eminonu Square.
- By Ferry – Eminonu has ferry services to both the Asian and European sides.
Tip: The T1 tram is the easiest way to reach Eminonu & Sirkeci from Sultanahmet and Taksim.
Eminonu & Sirkeci For a Half-Day: Our Best Itinerary
Explore the historic heart of Eminonu and Sirkeci with our half-day itinerary, covering historic landmarks, food, and culture.
Morning: Start with Iconic Landmarks
- Visit the Spice Bazaar – Wander through the historic marketplace filled with Turkish delights, spices, and souvenirs.
- Stop by the New Mosque – A stunning Ottoman-era mosque next to the bazaar.
- Walk along the Eminonu waterfront – Watch ferries come and go while soaking in the Bosphorus views.
Midday: Food & Culture
- Grab a famous Balık Ekmek (Fish Sandwich) – Enjoy this local favorite at one of the boats along the waterfront.
- Explore Sirkeci Train Station – The former last stop of the legendary Orient Express.
- Visit the Istanbul Railway Museum inside the station for a glimpse of old travel history.
Afternoon: Shopping & Scenic Views
- Browse the shops around Sirkeci – Find unique Turkish souvenirs and artisan goods.
- Relax in Gülhane Park – A peaceful green escape just steps away from the bustling streets.
- Sip traditional Turkish tea at a café with views of the Golden Horn.
Tip: If you have more time, head to Topkapi Palace or Hagia Sophia, just a short walk away!
Is Eminonu & Sirkeci Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Eminonu & Sirkeci are the beating heart of Istanbul, where history, culture, food, and daily life come together.
From bustling bazaars and ferry rides to delicious street food and historic landmarks, this area is a must-see for first-time visitors.