Exploring Sultanahmet, Istanbul: Things to Do, See – Our Best Tips

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.

Why Visit Sultanahmet?

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.

What Makes Sultanahmet Special?

✔️ 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.

If you only have one day in Istanbul, Sultanahmet should be at the top of your list!

Best Things to Do & See in Sultanahmet

There’s so much to explore in Sultanahmet, but these are the absolute must-visit landmarks that make this neighborhood famous.

Hagia Sophia

One of the most iconic buildings in the world, Hagia Sophia has stood for over 1,500 years. It has been a church, mosque, and museum, and today, it serves as a working mosque.

💡 Don’t Miss:

• The massive Byzantine dome and golden mosaics.
• The Weeping Column, believed to bring good luck.
• Stunning Islamic calligraphy alongside Christian artwork.

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)

Directly across from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque is famous for its six minarets and beautiful blue-tiled interior.

💡 Tip: Visit outside prayer times to avoid waiting in long lines.

Topkapı Palace

Once the home of Ottoman sultans, Topkapı Palace is filled with royal treasures, secret courtyards, and stunning Bosphorus views.

💡 Highlights:

• The Harem Section (separate ticket needed).
• The Imperial Treasury, showcasing priceless artifacts.
• The Palace Gardens, perfect for relaxing.

Basilica Cistern

Basilica Cistern, the famous underground water reservoir is one of Istanbul’s most unique attractions. With ancient Roman columns, mystical lighting, and the famous Medusa Heads, it’s a must-see!

💡 Tip: Bring a camera—this place is Instagram gold!

Sultanahmet Square – Hippodrome of Constantinople

Once the center of Byzantine sports and political events, the Hippodrome is now a public square with historic monuments like:

• 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.

Explore Istanbul’s Best Museums

Sultanahmet is a paradise for history and art lovers, with several must-visit museums:

• Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts – Features priceless carpets, manuscripts, and calligraphy from the Islamic world.
• Istanbul Archaeology Museums – A complex of three museums housing ancient artifacts from Mesopotamia, Anatolia, and Egypt.
• Great Palace Mosaics Museum – Showcases mosaics from the Byzantine Imperial Palace, depicting scenes of daily life and mythology.

Shop at 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.

Walk Along Soğukçeşme Street

A hidden gem near Topkapi Palace, Soğukçeşme Street is a charming cobblestone street lined with historic wooden mansions. It’s a peaceful spot away from the crowds, perfect for taking photos and enjoying the ambiance.

Relax at Hürrem Sultan Hammam (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.

Nearby Places to Visit & See

Sultanahmet to Beyazıt

• Çemberlitaş (Column of Constantine) – A historic Roman column built by Emperor Constantine in 330 AD, marking the center of Constantinople.
• Beyazit Square – A lively square near Istanbul University, home to Beyazıt Mosque and the entrance to the Grand Bazaar.
• Sahaflar Çarşısı (Old Book Bazaar) – A historic book market selling rare manuscripts, Ottoman prints, and second-hand books, located near the Grand Bazaar.

Sultanahmet to Sirkeci

• Gülhane Park – Once the outer gardens of Topkapı Palace, now a peaceful park with scenic views and the Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam.
• Sirkeci Train Station – A historic train station, once the last stop of the Orient Express, featuring an on-site museum.
• Spice Market – A bustling market filled with spices, dried fruits, Turkish delights, and teas, perfect for souvenirs.

Sultanahmet to the Coastline

• Little Hagia Sophia – Originally a Byzantine church dedicated to Saints Sergius and Bacchus, later converted into a mosque.
• Sokollu Mehmet Pasha Mosque – A masterpiece by Mimar Sinan, featuring exquisite Iznik tiles and relics from the Kaaba.
• Kadırga – A quiet historic neighborhood with Ottoman-era houses, traditional cafes, and art galleries.
• Cankurtaran – A small coastal district with scenic sea views, historic wooden houses, and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Kumkapı – A vibrant area famous for its seafood restaurants, offering fresh fish and traditional mezes in a lively setting.

Best Places to Eat & Drink in Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet is packed with delicious restaurants serving authentic Turkish cuisine. Here are my top picks:

🍽️ 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.

🥙 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.

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.

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 Istanbul 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.

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! 🚶‍♂️✨

How to Get to Sultanahmet

🚋 By Tram (Easiest Option!)

Take the T1 Tram Line to Sultanahmet Station. From here, all major sights are within walking distance.

⛴️ By Ferry

If coming from Kadıköy or Üsküdar, take a ferry to Eminönü, then transfer to the T1 tram.

🚶 On Foot

If you’re staying in Sirkeci or Eminönü, you can easily walk to Sultanahmet in about 10 minutes.

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.

📍 Have you explored Sultanahmet? Let me know your favorite spots in the comments!