The Old City of Istanbul (Turkish: Eski İstanbul, also Tarihi Yarımada and Suriçi, “Historical Peninsula”, and “Walled City” respectively) is the oldest part of Istanbul and the location of most of its historical sights.
Being a peninsula bounded by bodies of water to the north, east, and south (the Golden Horn, Bosphorus, and the Sea of Marmara, respectively) and by the old city walls to the west, this part of the city is essentially what used to be called Constantinople, as the rest of what is today Istanbul was part of independent cities, towns, villages, fields or even complete wilderness later absorbed by the city. This process is still going on as Istanbul grows with increasing speed.
Istanbul, or Byzantium as it was called then, was first settled by Greek colonists from Megara in Greek mainland in 667 BC. They founded their city at Seraglio Point (Sarayburnu) which is now occupied by Topkapı Palace. However, recent discoveries in a metro construction site in Yenikapı (on the southern coast of the peninsula) date the very first date of Istanbul's settlement back to about 8000 years ago, which makes the city one of the oldest still-inhabited spots in the world.
This peninsula was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985.
Sultanahmet, walking distance to the all historical sights of Istanbul named old city.
Being one of the most central parts of the city, getting to the Old City by public transport is easy. The waterfront often hosts cruise ships, providing passengers (not on tours) with easy, self-arranged access to sights and shopping.
Trains from Europe and European Turkey have their termini at Sirkeci station, which is located in this district. It's also possible to take the suburban trains (banliyö treni), which have about 30-min intervals and cost 1.50 TL pp, from Bakırköy and other coastal suburbs in the west to Sirkeci.
A modern tram line lies all along with the old city, connecting it with Galata and other places north, and the suburbs in the west. Tram stations are located at Eminönü, Sirkeci, Gülhane, Sultanahmet, Beyazıt, and Aksaray among others.
With the cancellation of public bus line T4 between Taksim and Sultanahmet, the easiest way to get to the old city from Taksim by public transport now is to take the funicular from inside the metro station at Taksim Square and then transfer on to the tram at Kabataş station. You have to buy two tokens at the metro station (3TL each). If you travel with 2 or more then a taxi may be cheaper.
A metro/light rail line connects Atatürk International Airport and the main bus station (otogar) outside the city with Aksaray. From Aksaray, you can take the tram (follow the ‘tramvay’ signs) for places deeper into the Old City (such as Sultanahmet). If you are approaching the airport, you can also change from metro to tram in Zeytinburnu. Changing at Zeytinburnu is better than changing at Aksaray, as the metro and tram stations in Zeytinburnu are much nearer to each other (making it highly unlikely to get lost!) and it’s the first station along the line, which means you can easily secure a seat after your long flight. The metro comes to every 15 min and the journey from the airport to Sultanahmet (including changing trams at Zeytinburnu) takes around 45minutes. The metro is clean and climate-controlled. Cheaper and, especially if arriving or departing during Istanbul's rush-hour, much faster than any other transportation option.
Istanbul New Airport (IST) To Sultanahmet Old city:
Going from the New Istanbul Airport (IST) to the Sultanahmet Old City is very easy. Please follow these steps:
1. Go to the second floor of the IST airport and go towards the area for public buses;
2. Use the vending machine to get an "Istanbul" card. The card costs 8 Turkish Liras. Next, load 20 Turkish Liras into your Istanbul card;
3. Go to Bay # 16, where it says Sultanahmet; and
4. Tap the Istanbul card, and pay 18 Turkish Liras. The bus from the IST airport will take you directly to Hagia Sophia.
Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) To Sultanahmet Old city:
Going from the Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) to the Sultanahmet Old City is also very easy. Please follow these steps:
1. Get an Istanbul card for public transport;
2. Get the bus from Sabiha airport to Taksim Square; and
3. Use the metro and the tram to go to Sultan Ahmet Old City from Taksim. Good directions are available from Google Maps.
Public buses connect various spots in the old city with various other places. For the traveler, the most useful lines are as follows:
61B Taksim – Beyazıt (very near the Grand Bazaar; also about 10-15 min walk or 3-4 min tram ride away from Sultanahmet)
96T the bus from Atatürk Airport to Taksim also passes through some parts of the old city. The stop nearest to Sultanahmet is Aksaray/Valide Sultan. From there, you can take the tram.
You can get on any bus which goes to Eminönü or Beyazıt since both places are very close to Sultanahmet if you would like to go there. You can either walk (about 10-15 minutes) or take a tram from both places. However, there might be traffic at certain times. Sultanahmet also makes your travel easier to catch a bus to other touristic destinations you can check how it will be possible here.
In Istanbul, there are a lot of yellow taxis, and fares are not expensive. From Ataturk Airport (Old Istanbul Airport) to Sultanahmet is about ~20 km. and the fare is ~60.00 TRY. Also from Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) to Sultanahmet is about ~46,2 km. and the cab fare is ~170.00 TRY. Uber is also available throughout Istanbul.
Liners from Kadıköy and Üsküdar across the Bosphorus moor at Eminönü. There are also smaller private boats plying on the same routes. Another option is to take the boat from Üsküdar to Kabataş and take the tram.
If you are arriving in Istanbul by one of the fast ferries from towns across on the southern and southeastern coast of Marmara, your likely point of entry to the city is Yenikapı on the southern shore of the peninsula.
Most of the sights in the old city are close enough to be negotiated on foot, as they are located in or around Sultanahmet Square. For many others, just follow the tram line. However, between Eminönü/Sirkeci and Sultanahmet, it is faster to take the shortcut through Ankara Caddesi (Street) and stray away from the tramline as the tramline follows an arch through that part of the city.
The sidewalk along Hüdavendigar Caddesi between Sirkeci, Gülhane, and Sultanahmet Square is not very wide and trams pass along fairly close to the sidewalk, so watch your steps especially when you hear the tram's horn.
Main footpath of Gülhane Park lined with plane trees
Many of Istanbul’s historical gems, mostly consisting of Byzantine and Ottoman-built monuments are in Old City. Most are located a short walk away from, if not immediately on the edges of, Sultanahmet Square. Some other sights are dispersed throughout the peninsula.
The Museum Pass İstanbul [1] is a good way to visit multiple museums with one ticket and without having to queue. This ticket costs 1750 TL (as of May 2023) and is valid for 5 consecutive days from first use. There are also discounts for other museums and shops. The card is available in several hotels or at the entrance to any of the included museums. If you want to save time and not line up to buy the museum pass, you can use the machines dedicated to that at the entrance of some of the above museums (at least Hagia Sofia and Topkapi Palace) but keep in mind that these machines only accept credit card (no cash).
As of May 2021, the Museum Pass includes admission to the following thirteen museums: Istanbul Archaeological Museums, Topkapi Palace Museum, Topkapi Palace Harem Museum, Hagia Irene Museum, Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art, Great Palace Mosaics Museum, Galata Tower Museum, Galata Mevlevi Museum, Rumeli Fortress Museum, Turbes Museum, Adam Mickiewicz Museum, Museum of the History of Islamic Science and Technology, and Fethiye (Pammakaristos) Museum.
Archeology Museums (Arkeoloji Müzeleri), Osman Hamdi Bey Yokuşu, Gülhane (tram: Gülhane; take the first right after entering Gülhane Park), ☎ +90 212 520-77-42, [x]. Tu-Su 09:00-19:00. Tickets stop being sold at 16:00. The first museum of Turkey, consist of there museums in same courtyard and different buildings; Archaeological Museum, the Ancient Orient Museum (Eski Şark Eserleri Müzesi) and Tiled Kiosk Museum (Çinili Köşk Müzesi). The museums houses of over 1 million archeological objects. One of the best pieces is Sumerian tablets such as the oldest poem (8th century BC), Alexander the Great Sarcophagus, Treaty of Kadesh (oldest agreement in the world), wall of Babylon, Gezer Calendar (10th century BC), and much more! Note, that as of October 2016, many of the exhibits are unavailable (eg Alexander Sarcophagus) due to restoration work.20 TL (as of Oct 2016) or with the Museum Pass. (41.011625,28.981429)
Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici). Yerebatan Cad., Sultanahmet [2], 09:00-18:30. A giant underground cistern was built by Justinian in 532 to provide water to the city in cases of siege. A wooden walkway winds between the pillars, and lights and piped music add to the eerie atmosphere. Bring some type of fish food as you'll see enormous fish swimming below your feet, and throw a coin into the pool to make a wish. The statues of Medussa are impressive. 5 TL for Turkish citizens, 20 TL ( May 2019 -no concessions. Turkish currency, NO credit cards accepted, NO Museum Pass accepted.).
Bayezid II Turkish Bath Culture Museum (II Bayezid Türk Hamam Kültürü Müzesi). Balabanağa, No:2, Kimyager Derviş Paşa Sk. Part of Istanbul University, this restored 16th-century Turkish bath (hammam) is now a free museum showcasing its architecture and displays of hammam artifacts, as well as ancient sculpture. Well worth a half-hour if you're in the neighborhood. Next door is the Istanbul University Rıdvan Çelikel Archaeological Museum (Universitesi Arkeoloji Müzesi).
Cistern of Philoxenos (Binbirdirek Sarnici). İmran Öktem Sokak 4. Second largest cistern in Istanbul after the Basilica Cistern.
Divan Yolu Street / Yeniçeriler Street (Divan Yolu Caddesi / Yeniçeriler Caddesi), (between Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya Camii) and Pertevniyal Valide Sultan Mosque (Camii)). A little over 2km in length, this main street became a showplace for the empire of the Ottoman sultans. Today it is lined with impressive mosques (Camii) and tombs (türbesi), mainly from the 16th and 17th centuries. Also along the way are a few museums, the Column of Constantine (Çemberlitaş Sütunu), plenty of shops and restaurants, and vibrant street life. The Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) is just north of the midpoint. Walk one direction and take the light rail back.
Great Palace Mosaics Museum (Büyük Saray Mozaikleri Müzesi), Arasta Çarşısı, Sultanahmet (just south of Blue Mosque), ☎ +90 212 518-12-05 (fax: +90 212 512-54-74), [x]. Tu-Su 09:00-16:30. Located in Arasta Bazaar, this museum hosts the pavement mosaics of the Byzantine-era Great Palace of Constantinople, which once occupied all the way from Sultanahmet Square, then the Hippodrome, to the coast of the Sea of Marmara.15 TL (as of Oct 2016) or with the Museum Pass.
Hagia Sofia
Inside Hagia Sofia
Sultanahmet a.k.a Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque, close-up
Gülhane Park (near Sultanahmet, and next door to Museum of Archaeology). This park was royal hunting grounds in the past. Today it’s a public park with lots of seasonal flowers, including huge patches of tulips in early April, and huge plane trees (Platanus)— which means lots of shade as well. The high walls on one side of the park separate it from Topkapı Palace. At one end of the park are a group of nice outdoor cafés— all of which basically serve the same drinks and snacks— with a view of Bosphorus, a view that is as charming as the view from the Palace situated right above. Those cafés sell tea by teapot (which holds over 5 glasses of tea) and cost 6 TL or 8 TL for two persons for which you will get a slightly bigger teapot (note that while tea in each teapot is enough for two persons, they only serve one glass if you order one-person-teapots which cost 6 TL). On your way to the cafés, don't forget to check out the Column of the Goths (Gotlar Sütunu), a Corinthian-style marble pillar dating back to Roman times, located just behind the entrances of cafés. It was erected in honor of the victory over Goths of either Claudius II Gothicus (r. 268-270) or Constantine the Great (r. 306-337), and it likely is the oldest artifact dating back to a Roman-era that is still intact in the city and possibly predates the foundation of Constantinople, with some badly deformed Latin inscriptions on its pedestal. Also near the café is the ruins of a monastery dating back to Byzantine times. The park has two gates, one near Sultanahmet (on the street between Sultanahmet Sq and Sirkeci, the street on which tram runs), and the other on the avenue lying on the coastline. To get to Sirkeci/Eminönü from the latter, turn left after exiting the park.Free.
Hagia Irene (Aya İrini), (on the grounds of Topkapı Palace), [x]. Hagia Irene, which you will notice to your left after entering the outer yard of Topkapı Palace, is one of few Byzantine-era cathedrals which was never converted to a mosque (though not used for religious purposes either during the Ottoman period). Hagia Irene is now (October 2016) open to the public but going through renovation, so there is very little to see and might not be worth it if you don't have the Museum Pass. There are no audio guides or information signs within the building.20 TL (as of Oct 2016) or with the Museum Pass.
Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya)[3] , Sultanahmet Square (by tram: Sultanahmet), +90 212 522-17-50. Tu-Su 09:00-18:00. 25€ and up as of June 2024, depending on which ticket you opt for. Dating from the sixth century, it was originally a basilica constructed for the Eastern Roman Emperor Justinian I. A masterwork of Greek engineering, the huge 30 m diameter dome covers what was for over 1000 years the largest enclosed space in the world. The church was looted by the fourth Crusaders in 1204 and became a mosque in the 15th century when The Ottomans conquered the city. It was converted into a museum in 1935, and back to a mosque in 2020. Don't miss the excellent mosaics, including those in the gallery, reached by a stone ramp to the left of the entrance.
Hippodrome, adjacent to the Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia. This was the center of Roman and Byzantine Constantinople and is a great place to begin one's tour and to watch people. The building no longer stands, but the obelisks and sculptures that have been collected here since Theodosius' time in the fourth century remain. The four bronze horses in the facade of St. Marco in Venice used to be on top of the Emperor's box in the Hippodrome and they were looted by the crusaders in 1204. While you are on your way to the hippodrome, don’t forget the German Fountain (Alman Çeşmesi), a neo-Byzantine style fountain building at the square leading to Hippodrome. It was a gift sent by German Kaiser Wilhelm II to the Ottoman Sultan.
Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art, (Sultanahmet), [x]. Carpets, rugs, calligraphy, pottery. With the same ticket, you can visit also the Ethnographic Museum next door where you can learn about the lifestyle of the Turks and their ancestors.20 TL (as of Oct 2016) or with the Museum Pass.
Soğukçeşme Street (Soğukçeşme Sokağı), (between Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and the gate of Gülhane Park). A car-free downhill cobbled street just behind Hagia Sophia, with renovated (or totally re-built) traditional wooden houses two- or three-storeys tall typical of Ottoman era, leaning against the outer wall of Topkapı Palace grounds/Gülhane Park. Worth a look to see what the typical streetscape of Istanbul was like before the concrete came over. While around there, don't forget to check out Fountain of Sultan Ahmed III, at the square in front of the outer gate of Topkapı Palace, a huge standalone fountain building built in typical Ottoman Rococo style in 1728.
Stone of Million (Milyon Taşı). Divan Yolu Street (Caddesi), close to the entrance of Basilica Cistern. While this partially intact marble pillar dating back to the 4th century AD may seem unremarkable, it was the starting point of any distance measured within the empire during the Byzantine era, so it may be nice to think that you are in the center of where all the roads lead to (or rather start from). As of May 2021, inaccessible due to construction.
Sultanahmet Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii, aka Blue Mosque) [4], At Meydan Sokak 17, Sultanahmet (by tram: Sultanahmet), +90 212 518-13-19. May-Oct 09:00-21:00, Nov-Apr: 09:00-21:00. With its six minarets and sweeping architecture, the Sultanahmet or 'Blue' Mosque impresses from the outside. Unlike Haghia Sophia, this is still a working mosque, entry is through the courtyard on the SW side which is the backside of the mosque. No shorts or bare shoulders (shawls are provided) and you will need to remove your footwear (bags are provided that you can place your shoes in). Entrance is free, but donations are welcome upon exit. The mosque is closed during ritual prayer but mosque volunteers provide you with a free presentation about the Mosque and also about Islam during that period. The venue for this event is the Mosque's conference hall. It is the building with the "Free Event" sign that will be on your left while you are approaching the Mosque from Hagia Sophia. There is no entrance fee, and there are even free refreshments. Women need to wear headscarves, which can be bought in nearby shops for 5-15TL or borrowed at the mosque for free. Everyone needs to cover their legs (no shorts or short skirts).
Theodosius Cistern (Şerefiye Sarnici). Piyer Loti Cd., Sultanahmet [5], 09:00-18:00. Though smaller than the Basilica cistern, Theodosius Cistern is your option of choice if you want to avoid the crowds, but still, soak in the atmosphere of an underground cistern. The lighting of the columns is much better than in Basilica Cistern. Free entrance (May 2019)
Topkapı Palace (Topkapı Sarayı) [6], Bab-i Hümayün Caddesi (by tram: Gülhane/Sultanahmet), +90 212 512-04-80. M,W-Su 09:00-17:00. The imperial enclave of the Ottoman emperors for four centuries. Lavishly decorated, with four courts of increasing grandeur. In the second court of the entrance to the Harem (admission extra, only by joining a guided tour) and the State Treasury, housing a weaponry display. The third court has the Imperial Treasury. Both Islamic and Christian relics, rugs, porcelain. The views from the Fourth Court over the Bosphorus are spectacular. You can also see Prophet Mohammed's belongings. As of October 2016, the entrance fee is 40 TL (no concessions, credit cards and Turkish currency accepted. Harem 25 TL extra)or with the Museum Pass.
BEWARE Any bus or tram with a sign or indication that it heads for or calls at Topkapı will NOT take you anywhere near Topkapı Palace. Rather it will to a neighborhood named after the city gate near which it’s situated (“cannon gate”), which may be worth a trip to take a look at the impressive city walls. Topkapı neighborhood is located in the extreme western part of the old city, near the city walls, while Topkapı Palace is located in the extreme eastern part, which means the distance between each other is at least 7-8km. ‘Topkapı’ alone almost always refers to the neighborhood, not the palace. Taking a bus heading for Topkapı to go to the palace is a common mistake made by visitors. For the palace, the stop/station you should look for is 'Sultanahmet'.
Chora Church (Kariye Müzesi), Edirnekapı (near the city walls; bus: #87 from Taksim, or 31E from Eminonu), ☎ +90 212 631-92-41 (fax: +90 212 621-34-35), [x]. Th-Tu 09:00-16:30. Also known as the Church of St Saviour in Chora (chora translates "countryside" in Byzantine Greek, which refers to what the site of the church exactly was when it was built), this is 1000 year old Byzantine church, an example of a church somewhat out of the traditional center, but is an absolute must-see with precious mosaics and a captivating mood inside. The early church frescoes had been covered with plaster for nearly 500 years, as the building had been converted into a mosque, but were uncovered in the mid-twentieth century and have been partially restored. Mindblowing frescoes and mosaics now cover the entire inside of this church. An impressive section of Theodosian walls is right next to the church.30 TL (as of Oct 2016).
Column of Marcianus (Marcianus Sütunu), (İskenderpaşa). Erected by Tatianus (450-c.452) and dedicated to the Emperor Marcian (450-57).
Old City Walls. The old city walls, which were built during the reign of Byzantine emperor Theodosius II (r. 408–450), and enclosing entire western boundary of the peninsula from Golden Horn to the coast of the Sea of Marmara, are mostly intact although partially dilapidated, suffering from unsightly restorations of the early 1990s, and occasionally pierced by wide avenues into the old city. For a complete and detailed walking route along the walls, see "Theodosian Walls Walk" section of the main Istanbul article. Those too lazy to do the entire route may check out easily accessible sections around Chora Church, Pazartekke station of T1 tram line, or Yedikule Fortress.
Patriarchate of Constantinople (Fener Rum Patrikhanesi), Sadrazam Ali Paşa Caddesi, Fener (between S. Ali Paşa Cd. and İncebel Sokağı; northwest of old city, close to Golden Horn shore), ☎ +90 212 531-96-70 ([email protected], fax: +90 212 534-90-37), [x]. 08:30-16:00. Arguably the centre of World Orthodoxy, housed since 1586 in Church of St George (Greek: Agíou Geōrgíou, Turkish: Aya Yorgi), which is, despite its religious importance, an otherwise unremarkable and unimpressive building from outside, though its lavishly decorated interior is worth a look. While you are around, don't forget to check out the Phanar Greek College (Fener Rum Lisesi) just next to St George, which has an imposing tower made of red brick which seems to appear straight out of medieval times.
St Stephen Church (Sveti Stefan Kilisesi), Fener (on the southern shore of the Horn; close to waterfront, on the main avenue). A Bulgarian Orthodox church better known as Demir Kilise, i.e. "Iron Church", St Stephen is totally made of cast iron, a product of 19th century experimentation with prefabricated iron churches. This building combining neo-Gothic and neo-Baroque influences, has a richly ornamented exterior.
Valens Aqueduct as seen from southeast
Zeyrek Mosque with the three former churches making it up still distinguishable
Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii; about 15-20 min walk away from Beyazıt tram stop/Grand Bazaar, also the same distance away from Eminönü, but you should walk uphill from there). On the top of a hill overlooking Golden Horn is a work of Sinan, an Ottoman architect of the 16th century. The mosque is a fine example of Ottoman architecture of the era and inspired the architects of the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet) which was built later. Comparing these two mosques, Süleymaniye is noted for its gloomier and more atmospheric feeling. Next to the courtyard of the mosque are the tombs of Sinan himself, Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, and his Ukrainian spouse, Roxelana (known as Hürrem Sultan in Turkish). Free admission (both the mosque building itself and tombs in the courtyard). As of June 2010, the mosque is under construction with very little of the interior available to see. Currently, best seen from a distance.
Valens Aqueduct (Bozdoğan Kemeri), (over Atatürk Boulevard, north of Aksaray, south of Unkapanı). A double-story Roman one built during the reign of Valens (r. 364-378) to provide the city with fresh water coming from the surrounding forests, this 921-meter long aqueduct spans the valley occupied by what is now Atatürk Boulevard (Atatürk Bulvarı), which lies in the very middle of the peninsula, connecting Aksaray with Unkapanı on the bank of Golden Horn and then Taksim Square, behind the opposite shore of Golden Horn. The aqueduct is one of the symbols of the city and it will likely welcome you to the city on your way from the airport to the hotel if you are going to stay around Taksim/Beyoğlu.
Zeyrek Mosque (Turkish: Zeyrek Camii, also Molla Zeyrek Camii), Sinanağa Mah. İbadethane Sokak, Zeyrek (west of Atatürk Bulvarı/Unkapanı). Located in the neighbourhood of Zeyrek close to Fatih, Zeyrek Mosque is made by joining two former churches and a chapel all located next to each other. It represents the most typical example of the architecture of the Byzantine middle period and is, after Hagia Sophia, the second largest religious edifice built by the Byzantines still extant in Istanbul. A picturesque place, so prepare your camera! One word of caution, it is located in a somewhat rough neighborhood, so better visited when there is still daylight.Free.
Yedikule Fortress (Yedikule Hisarı), (suburban train: Yedikule). This fortress in the very southwest of the old city, next to the city walls was Porta Aurea, i.e. "Golden Gate" of Roman times when it was the main ceremonial entrance into the capital, used especially for the occasions of a triumphal entry of an emperor into the capital on the occasion of military victories. During the Ottoman era, a fortress was built next to it ("the Fortress of Seven Towers", a direct translation of its current Turkish name) and during the late Ottoman period, it served as a state prison for high-level detainees like ambassadors or pasha's. The fortress is closed at present (December 2015). You can walk around it, but don't expect nice views of the Golden Gate.
Walk along with the Golden Horn Poke around forgotten corners just over this hauntingly beautiful inlet from the Bosphorus. You make some thrilling - and chilling - "finds" on cobbled streets as you trace its narrow alleyways and ancient squares. The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate housing a column which is believed to have been used for the binding and flogging of criminals in Jerusalem is here. The magnificent Neo-Gothic, Neo-Baroque -well literally handmade dollhouse -St. Stephens Church is located on the western shores. The cascading domes and four slender minarets of the Imperial Suleymaniye Mosque dominate the skyline. One of Istanbul’s surviving medieval synagogues...and trendiest houses in town that are now enjoying their second or even third type of use. The highlight is the famous Chora the Byzantine marvel of mosaics and frescoes.
Most of Istanbul's historical Turkish baths, known as Hamam and are quite an inevitable part of any Istanbul experience, are located in Old City around Sultanahmet.
Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamamı. Open: 07:00 - 00:00. The Historical and Luxurious Art of Bathing, +90 212 5173535, The Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamam in Istanbul was designed and built by Mimar Sinan, the chief Ottoman architect. It was built at the request of Hurrem Sultan (Roxelana), the wife of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century (1556-1557 AD). It was built where the ancient public baths of Zeuxippus (100-200 AD) used to stand, between the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia. The area is also particularly significant as the site where the Temple of Zeus once stood. Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamam consists of baths, a restaurant, and a café, all located in the gardens of the hamam.
Cağaloğlu Hamamı, ☎ +90 212-5222424 ([email protected]), [x]. The Cağaloğlu Hamam was constructed in 1741 and is the last hamam to be built after a long period during the Ottoman Empire. It was constructed in İstanbul Eminönü. It is three blocks from the Hagia Sophia. It has separated sections. Popular and normally visited by tourists. You can get a "service" which means one of the staff helps you get scrubbing, and the most expensive option contain scrubbing and massage. The payment is done before, but if choose not to take a massage, don’t be surprised if one of the staff members will secretly offer you one, letting you decide how much to add to his tip. It should be said that the atmosphere is very touristic, and everything has a price. Once you are done, they give you a souvenir; a pair of underwear and a comb.Self-service €20, scrubbing €23, massage €30, self-service, scrubbing, and massage €40, and luxury service €45. Credit cards not accepted.
Çemberlitaş Hamamı, ☎ +90 212-5112535 ([email protected]), [x]. The Cemberlitas Bath is on Cemberlitas Square in the midst of some of Istanbul's greatest monuments. It was also built by architect Sinan in 1584. It has 2 sections, female and male.Entry €18, 39 TL for self-service, 59 for Turkish massage, 99 for Turkish massage and oil massage).
Süleymaniye Hamamı, Mimar Sinan Caddesi 20, ☎ +90 212-5203410 ([email protected]), [x]. Sultan Suleyman had this Hamam built by the famous Architect Sinan in 1550. Architect Sinan built this hamam for himself. He used this hamam for washing. Suleymaniye hamam is the only mixed hamam in Istanbul. There are no different sections for each sex, thus the families may comfortably enjoy this hamam together. Hamam also has two-way free shuttle services for the hotel guests if the booking comes through their receptionEntry €31.50.
Sultanahmet Hamamı, ☎ +90 212-5137204 ([email protected]), [x]. Open daily from 7AM until midnight, no entry after 10:30PM. A few steps from Sultanahmet tram station, the place is very much close to the main attractions at Sultanahmet. Of course, many of the visitors are tourists, however, it isn’t feeling too commercialized as the Cağaloğlu Bath one (e.g. No souvenirs are given, no tourist shop). There's a women section and mixed section. The place is nice, the hosting is kind, and the whole experience is fun. But, if you're looking for a strong, thorough, and long massage – you might find that disappointing. Tips can be given in one box by the doors, which reduces some of the "trading" fillings.40 TL for hamam only, 50 for hamam and massage (which is done by mean staff member in the Hamam room), and 60 for the.
Tarihi Şifa Hamamı, Sifa Hamami Sokak No. 24, ☎ +90 212-6383849. Established 1777, this is one of the cheaper options. It is entirely marbled throughout and the fittings might well be the originals. It has a mixed or separate female section. Enjoy a good scrub and clean, a massage, and an apple tea which is all included in the general service. The staff's English is limited, but they're also helpful to beginners.60 TL for a scrub and massage, 90 TL for scrub, massage, and an oil massage.
Istanbul's historical bazaars are located in Old City.
Bazaar 55 Rug House, Akbiyik Cad. 55, Sultanahmet, +90 212 6382289 [7]. The carpet shop is known to be most trustworthy.
Best Carpet Gallery, Binbirdirek Caddesi No. 3/36 , +90 535 722 01 75 [8]. buy online Rugs and Kilims.
Can Antik (Art and Antiques), Cadircilar Caddesi Lutfullah Sokak no 34/36, Beyazit (in the Grand Bazaar), ☎ +90 212 512-58-28, [x]. You will find Ottoman and other antique metalware here - copper bowls, jugs, pots Ottoman silver, furniture jewellery and big collection antique textile dating back to Ottoman era.
Chalabi, 6 Sandal Bedesten Sokak, +90 212 5228171. Grand Bazaars’ oldest family-run antique dealer offers Ottoman silver, furniture, and jewelry from old Ottoman families and other oriental treasures.
Chalcedony, 2 Ayasofya Caferiye Sokak, +90 212 5276376 [9]. One-stop shop for raw rocks, smooth stones, and finished jewelry of the pale-blue, semiprecious chalcedony.
Chalcedony. A semi-precious gemstone named after the nearby town of Chalcedon.
Deli Kızın Yeri Junior, 42 Halıcılar Çarşısı, +90 224 757 4229. The Grand Bazaar's first and only children's store, filled with Turkish-inspired toys and games for children of all ages.
Deli Kızın Yeri, 82 Halıcılar Çarşısı, +90 212 526 1251 [10]. Deli Kızın Yeri (The Crazy Lady's Place) was founded by The Crazy Lady herself, an American who has retired in Turkey, who specializes in creating flat, useful, packable items using traditional Turkish motifs, handicrafts, and fabrics. Items produced by local artists suiting the flavor of the shop comprise the rest of their inventory. The selection of items changes constantly, but generally includes items such as placemats, tablecloths, purses, doorstops, plastic bag holders, napkin rings, tea cozies, Turkish-flavoured teddy bears, and dolls, luggage tags, aprons, pillows, and limited edition clothing.
Derviş, 33-35 Keseciler Sokak, +90 212 514 4525 [11]. Turko-Californian spa shop with raw silk and cotton clothing.
Egyptian Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı, also known as Spice Bazaar) in Eminönü is also a covered bazaar, which is a lot smaller than Grand Bazaar, and as its name implies, houses herbalist and spice shops.
Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı). [12]. Istanbul's grand old bazaar with an estimated 4400 shops lined along covered walkways. It is said to be the world's oldest shopping mall, covers several blocks, and features a labyrinth of side streets to keep you lost for the better part of a day. The shops are organized around their wares, e.g. the silver jewelers are clustered together, the carpet shops are clustered elsewhere and the shoe shops are bunched together somewhere else. Parts of it now are rather touristy (most locals don't shop there) and you're likely to pay a little more for your purchase than elsewhere but with the vast selection you'll find what you're looking for and it's one of Istanbul's character pieces.
Heritage Nomadic Art Gallery, Cankurtaran Mh., Caferiye Sk. 10-1, 34122 Fatih/Sultanahmet/Fatih/İstanbul (North-West of Hagia Sofia, directly across the street in Caferiye Sk.), ☎ +90 553 126 94 97, [x]. 9-23. Beautiful, handmade souvenirs for reasonable prices. Large selection of skillfully painted ceramic bowls and fridge magnets. Hand-painted fridge magnets for 2,-.
Mehmet Cetinkaya Gallery, Kucuk Ayasofya Caddesi, 7 Tavukhane Sokak, +90 212 5176808 [13]. Glorious museum-quality textiles, a feast for the eyes.
Mevlana Rug Store, Torun sok. 1, Sultanahmet, +90 212 5171260 (fax:+90 212 5177476) [14]. Mevlana Rug store is the only store that is recommended by The New York Times.
Polisajci Brothers Antique Show, 37-39 Yaglikcilar Sokak, Ic Cebeci Han, +90 212 5261831. You will find Ottoman and other antique metalware - copper bowls, jugs, pots, and the like - once used in hammams and kitchens.
Rugs and kilims
You can buy tourist-kitsch souvenirs all around the city. A magnet with a colored picture of Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia will cost 2 TL each. Haggling over the price is the norm when shopping. Shopkeepers usually let you offer a price lower than the retail price; the best bet is to start from sixty percent of whatever is being asked by the shopkeepers. They would usually settle at 75 percent of their original demand after some bargain. Once a price agreeable to both is met, then the sale can be finalized.
Certain stalls selling tourist-kitsch souvenirs near tourist areas (e.g. Aya Sofya, Topkapi Palace) might have staff that is rude/uncouth and makes jokes' at tourists' expense during a sale. An example is the tourist-kitsch souvenir shop nearest the exit of Topkapi Palace, where the young sales staff there have been observed on several occasions to be rude and make jokes at the expense of foreign tourists. It is therefore advisable to buy from older traders, as they are more friendly and more respectful of tourists.
Historia, Vatan Caddesi (Adnan Menderes Bulv.) 2, Fatih (roughly at the midway between 'Aksaray' and 'Emniyet-Fatih' stations of M1 metro line; public bus stop 'İskenderpaşa' is right in front of the place), ☎ +90 212 532-02-02 ([email protected], fax: +90 212 531-10-10), [x]. Recently opened Historia is the only shopping mall in Old City (and likely will be the only one, as large-scale new development is restricted in most of this part of the city), and is the place to go if you are looking into something more modern and less touristy than Covered Bazaar. Usual selections of garment, electronics, and furniture stores, a large supermarket, as well as a bowling alley, fast food outlet, and a cinema. While there you may also want to check out Fenari İsa Mosque just next to Historia (across the narrow alley at the side of the mall), which is a small red-brick Byzantine church from the early era, which was renovated in the 1970s and now serves as a mosque after staying derelict since a fire damaged the building in 1918.
The best advice about eating in Sultanahmet is DON'T. Restaurants and Kebab places in Sultanahmet are mainly destined to tourists with prices much higher than in places such as Taksim for instance. Many restaurants also try to charge "service charges" or"covers" or "commissions"- be sure to check the menu for these charges before going in. Avoid restaurants that try to sneak these hidden charges into their menus.
If such charges are not written on the menu, but still appear on your bill, know that this is against the law and do not accept any excuses, even if they try to show you that they pay the government taxes on that service- it is still illegal if they did not write it on the menu NO MATTER WHAT. Do not think that it is only a few lire, or that it doesn't matter- tourists allowing themselves to be scammed has now caused ordinary Turks to suffer as well as more and more restaurants attempt to cheat locals.
For budget meals as well, it is advisable to avoid the restaurants along the tram line in the same area, although there are some really nice places there where a lunch can cost TL20 and they offer water-pipes and boardgames.
When having a look for a restaurant, there will be a lot of restaurants, where the person is trying to make one come inside. There is really a kind of competition between the restaurants to make one come inside. However, the best restaurants are not always the expensive tourist restaurants, but those small Lokantas where even the Turkish people go for having dinner.
Balkan Lokantasi. near to the tram within the restaurant area with very good and inexpensive food. Two floors. Real Turkish food and therefore a lot of Turkish guests.
Beydagi Restaurant, Klod Farer Cad. No.27/B (Go to the Hippodrome, walk west past the museum of Islamic Art and the Oriental Cafe and take the street to the right. You will reach an older small mosque and the restaurant is across the street.), ☎ (0212) 638 34 44. Chicken Shish for 10TL or Chicken Crepe for 8TL. The staff is friendly and the food is great. It does not have a Patio. Ignore this restaurant as they have inflated prices
Doy-Doy Restaurant, Sifa Hamamı Sokak No: 13, Sultanahmet, ☎ (0212) 517 15 88. An unassuming cafe spread out over three floors and a roof terrace with views over the Marmara Sea and the Blue Mosque. A bit of a hidden gem, and well worth the visit. Often recommended by locals and reviewed by Fodors. Serves a menu of simple kebabs, chicken and lamb stews, and pide (Turkish pizza) baked in a wood-burning oven. A variety of mezes are also available. Lunch specials include bean or lentil soup. Soups, meatless pizzas, veggie kebabs, and salad are great options for vegetarians. Friendly service. Cheap. Open late. *Update from November 2015. This restaurant has now mealed for YTL 20+. The roof terrace was closed.meals under YTL 10.
Esmer Chef, Ankara Caddesi No. 225 (Across from the Otogar and Sirkeci tram stop - near McDonals and Burger King). This new (as of April 2013) restaurant is an utterly refreshing change from the rest of the over-priced offerings in this area of town. They serve traditional Turkish food and a good selection of pasta and pizzas however the atmosphere is what makes this place unique. It's an open concept place and you can see the (seemingly always happy and smiling) cook prepare your food (generous portions for TL10-15). Perhaps due to the fact that it recently opened, but the entire staff was supremely nice and courteous. If in Sultanahmet, do come here for a break from the tourist traps.Cheaper than most places in Sultanahmet.
Full-screen Galata Bridge Fish Sandwiches, Galata Bridge (Lower Level). Balik ekmek! That's what you listen out for when you're heading down to the lower level of the Bridge on the Eminonu side. Once a raucous tradition for the local fishermen to sell their 'fish in bread' straight of the side of the boat&mdash. As of April 2016, Fish in Bread (Balik Ekmek) is 8 Lira. Mackerel is best during winter. Wash it down with fresh pickle juice.
Hayat Cafe, Corner of Akbıyık Cad. and Mehmet Ağa Cad., Sultanahmet, Istanbul. this restaurant is closed.about YTL 10.
Karadeniz Aile Pide ve Kebap Salonu, Divanyolu Cad. Hacı Tahsinbey Sok. Sultanahmet (about five meters down a side street just a bit west from the Sultanahmet tram stop), ☎ +90 212 528 62 90, [x]. Their specialty is pide, and at this they excel. Prices are ordinary for a quality pide place. Friendly staff.around 10-15 TL for mains, 4 TL soup/salad, complementary Turkish tea.
Lale Restaurant (The legendary '''Pudding Shop'''), [x]. In Sultanahmet, very near the tram station."> as known by Hippies of 60’s, is still open but without its former glory and crowd.
Meshur Köfteci (Selim Usta), (near the Sultanahmet tram stop (150 meters downhill).). Three-floor restaurant. Meshur means famous, and they rightly claim that title. Their specialty is meatballs (in a slightly different form, called köfte). Take it with a piyaz (beans salad) and ayran. Service is very swift and attentive, prices ordinary.
Sait Balik, Çapari Sokak No: 55, Kumkapi, Istanbul, ☎ 0212 355 65 65 ([email protected]), [x]. An ideal place to go for raki and fish. Restaurant serves fresh fish varieties and special Turkish mezes. Try their special desert "selale". 70-80 TRY with wine/person.
Sofa Cafe & Restaurant, Mimar Mehmet Aga Caddesi No:16 | Fatih, İstanbul 34122, Türkiye (close to 'Arasta Bazaar'), ☎ +90 212 458-36-30 (fax: +90 212 458-36-30), [x]. Romance,Local cuisine,Dining on a budget. Price of main from 22 TRY to 38 TRY.
Tarihi Subaşı Lokantası, Çarşıkapı, Nuruosmaniye Cad. No:48-2 (close to 'Nuruosmaniye' gate of Grand Bazaar), ☎ +90 212 522-47-62 (fax: +90 212 511-62-19), [x]. Traditional Ottoman/Turkish cuisine. A must go place.
Vivaldi Restaurant, Mustafa Kemalpasa Cad. No 52/A, Yenikapi (Take a tram to Laleli - buy some leather shoes/bags! - and then stroll down towards the water on Ataturk Blv/Mustafa Kemal Cad. Look for the Efes Beer umbrellas), ☎ (0212) 458 68 27. Definitely try the bitter wrap or mixed pide. Friendly staff who will insist on giving you free Turkish tea in this quiet little cafe situated in a non-tourist-trap area.meals under YTL 10.
Green Corner. Nice, lovely little open-air café just down the road from the Basilica Cistern. Eat a gözleme whilst lying down and smoking a Turkish pipe.
Rumeli Cafe a.k.a Mozaik Cafe, Ticarethane Sokak No:8 (near Divanyolu Caddesi, about one block from the Basilica Cistern), 212 512 00 08. On a relatively quiet street but close to all the attractions of Sultanahmet. Serves mostly traditional Ottoman and Turkish dishes, with lots of lamb on the menu. The staff is friendly and there are tables both indoors and on the sidewalk. 35-55 YTL per person (main, appetizer + one drink).
Akyar Balik, Karakoy Iskelesi, Balikci carsisi, Eminonu Istanbul, 90 212 455 55 62 [15]. Akyar Balik is a Turkish traditional fish restaurant where you can enjoy hot and cold mezes, fresh fish, and Turkish deserts. 50 USD/per person including wine or raki.
Asitane[16], at Edirnekapi. Asitane specializes in traditional Ottoman cuisine, based on meticulously researched recipes used in the royal palaces of the Ottoman empire. The main theme of these recipes is unique blends of meats and fruits. In spite of the traditional nature of the menu, the restaurant decor would not be out of place in London or New York. Pay special attention to the lamb dishes.
Konyali 1897 Lokantası, ☎ +90 212 513 96 96, [x]. Topkapı Palace Konyali 1897 Restaurant, which established in the year 1969 in Topkapı Palace Museum, has served many high-level statesmen, bureaucrats, artists and guests with the taste of Ottoman - Turkish cuisine for years with great admiration, became the pride of Turkish tourism.
Cheers, Akbiyik Caddesi 20, in Sultanahmet, +90 5324096359. Daily, 10AM-2AM. Offers the cheapest beers in town to a crowd of travelers.
The restaurants located on the lower level of the Galata Bridge which connects Old City with Galata also double as beerhouses even if you have no intention of having something to eat. Open-air parts of these restaurants beside the bridge railings offer a beautiful view of the mosque domes and towers and the Topkapı Palace dominating the Old City's skyline.
For something more typical, check out these cafés:
Cagaloglu Hamami Café, Prof. K.I. Gurkan Caddesi, Cagaloglu. A café located in a former hammam, dating 1741, where you can listen to live traditional Turkish music.
Sark Kahvesi', Yaglikcilar Caddesi 134 (in the Grand Bazaar) [17]. The most famous cafe in the market and a time warp into days gone by, full of traders playing backgammon. Turkish coffee NTL 1.5.
Accommodation in the peninsula is mostly around Sultanahmet. Cankurtaran, a neighborhood just south of Sultanahmet Square towards the coast of the Sea of Marmara, is one of the places where hotels/hostels cluster most.
Istanbul has a large community of CouchSurfing.com users who will allow you to stay at their home free. It is customary to take your host out for a meal and spend time sharing your culture with them.
Alp Guesthouse Hotel, Akbiyik street, adliye small street, Sultanahmet, ☎ +90 212 517 7067 ([email protected]), [x]. All the rooms have ensuite bathroom, TV, wired/wireless free internet connection, mini-bar, safe box. There is open buffet breakfast service on the terrace which has marmara sea and asian continent view. breakfast is included to room rates.Single 35/55 Euro, double 55/70 Euro, triple 65/80 Euro, Family room 80-100 Euro.
Antique Hostel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, Kutlugun Street No:51, 34122 Sultanahmet/Istanbul,Turkey (just around the corner from the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome, and only a few minutes' walk from Topkapi Palace.), ☎ +90 212 638 1637 ([email protected], fax: +90 212 518 3025), [x]. Breakfast and all the taxes included in price. Rooms include air-con, TV, laundry, free wireless connection and internet. Starts at €40/60 for singles/doubles.
Asmali Hotel Sultanahmet, Küçük Ayasofya Caddesi Sultanahmet, ☎ +90 212 638 3534 ([email protected]), [x]. * <sleep name="Bahaus Guesthouse" address="Bayramfirin Sokak No:11, Sultanahmet" phone="+90 212 638 65 34" fax="+90 212 517 66 97"> Friendly staff with lots of useful objective information to share. Dorm room around €12 including breakfast. Rooftop bar beer 5 YTL (can't bring anything except water to hostel). Free internet.Deluxe Double From 49 EUR To 149 EUR. Hotel Asmali consists of 15 rooms including a Suite Room with a sea view and jacuzzi also Standard and Deluxe Rooms which are decorated with ancient Turkish style. Our rooms are pretty wide and comfortable with double or separated beds and sitting groups.
Big Orange Hotel, Akbıyık Değirmen Street No: 3 Sultanahmet, ☎ +90 212 518-10-61 ([email protected], fax: +90 212 518-10-62), [x]. Breakfast included, linen included; luggage storage, wi-fi in the lobby, free internet in the rooms, air-con. No curfew, 24 hour check in, airport pick up available.Starts at €30 for a single room; credit cards accepted.
Deniz Konak Hotel, Küçük Ayasofya Caddesi No:14 Sultanahmet, ☎ +90 212 518 95 95 ([email protected]), [x]. Rooms with own bathroom, wireless internet access, cable TV, possibly sea view with balcony, minibar, free breakfast, 24 h reception, air-conditioning, terrace, laundry service.Double room 50 USD in high season (other rooms available as well) as of 09/2009.
Dongyang Hotel/Hostel Istanbul, Alemdar Cad. Tramway Yolu Üzeri No: 7 Sultanahmet, ☎ +90 212 511 24 14 ([email protected], fax: +90 212 528 95 33), [x]. Rooms with en-suite bathroom, satellite TV, and internet access.From € 10 for dorm rooms, from €40 for double rooms.
Grand Anka Hotel, ☎ +90 212 635 20 20 ([email protected], fax: +90 212 534 18 55), [x]. Istanbul Hotel Grand Anka Serves with hospitality, greetingly respectfully from 1996.
Istanbul Holiday Hotel, Küçük Ayasofya Caddesi No:28 Sultanahmet, ☎ +90 212 512 29 61 ([email protected], fax: +90 212 512 31 54), [x]. Rooms with en-suite bathroom, satellite TV, and internet access.From € 30/40 for a single/double room.
Istanbul Hostel, 35 Kutklu Gun Sokak, Sultanahmet (Next to Blue Mosque and Four Season Hotel), ☎ +90 212 516 93 80, [x]. checkin: 11am; checkout: 10-11am. Six and eight bed dorms, street-level tables, rooftop restaurant and lounge area with amazing views and mediocre food, basement bar/cafeteria/patio, where free Turkish breakfast is served every day. Free wireless and free internet at two aging computers in the lobby. The staff is very helpful and friendly. Staff can arrange transport to and from the airport, and the hostel has a travel agency that can set you up with other hostels and trips in the country. The atmosphere is good. Downstairs rooms may be noisy; the upstairs rooms share a single (working) shower (which doesn't get hot) in an unventilated restroom. no real common room.dorms 20 YTL.
Istanbul Hostel Sinbad, Kucuk Ayasofya Mh., Demirci Resit Sokak, Sultanahmet [18]. Offers budget accommodations for backpackers. They offer discounts for students and hostels' card holders, together with some other amenities as free breakfast. Sinbad has a total of 22 rooms - 92 beds. Dorm rooms have six beds, only female dorms, single, double, triple, quad rooms are available.
Lamp Hotel Istanbul[19]. This lovely budget hotel is situated at the heart of the old city of Istanbul. Some rooms have a good view of the Sultanahmet mosque which is the symbol of the old city. You can find rooms for 40 euros and the staff is really friendly and they make your visit easy in the town.
Mavi Guesthouse, Kutlugün Sokak No:3, Sultanahmet, +90 212 517 72 87 (fax: +90 212 516 58 78, [email protected]) [20]. Breakfast is included in the price and this guesthouse is close to the Four Seasons Hotel and many other backpackers. Staff can arrange transport to and from the airport (approx 12 YTL). Internet is available for a nominal fee or free with a wireless LAN Laptop. Small (cozy) TV room etc. €10/11 for 6 bed/4 bed dorm rooms, private rooms for €20-33.
Mavi Onur Hotel, Küçük Ayasofya Mahallesi, Aksakal Sokak No:28, 34410 Sultanahmet, ☎ +90 212 4580690 ([email protected], fax: +90 212 4580692), [x]. Small, family run guesthouse. Offering six rooms that have their own private shower, toilet, hair-drying facilities and air conditioning. The breakfast is included in the price and they have a rooftop terrace.from 11 euro for a dorm bed to 42 euro for a triple room (high season prices).
Old City Hostel, Bestekar Osman Sokak, Sultanahmet, ☎ +90 212 522 78 45 ([email protected], fax: +90 212 522 83 31), [x]. checkin: 12:00; checkout: 11:00. Just in the heart of Old City, in 5 minutes walk distance to all important attractions. Clean, comfortable, safe. 20€/night in 8-bed mixed/female only dorms including breakfast. Cafe/Bar, rooftop with sea view, free wi-fi.
Olimpiyat Hotel, Ebusuud Caddesi Erdogan Sokak no: 6 (Just next to Topkapi Palace), ☎ +90 212 511 96 59 ([email protected], fax: +90 511 99 16), [x]. Breakfast and all the taxes included in price and free airport transfer offered. Rooms include air-con, TV and minibar, laundry, free wireless connection and internet.Starts at €40/50 for singles/doubles in high season.
Orient Hostel, Yeni Akbiyik Cad 13, Sultanahmet, +90 212 517 9493 (fax: +90 212 518 3894, [email protected]), [21]. Hostel in a good location in Sultanahmet. The staff is friendly and willing to help. Cafe/bar upstairs, rooftop lounge area overlooking the Golden Horn, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the oldest mosque in Istanbul (it's small and has one minaret, just go down the street towards Topkapi). Pretty cheap rooms, but the travel agency downstairs is overpriced, as is the beer in the bar. Belly dancers two or three nights per week in the basement bar, but expect competition for her affections from older local businessmen. 18/20 YTL for 8 bed/4 bed dorm rooms, private rooms 40-70 YTL.
Petrol Palace Hotel, Divanyolu cad. Dr.Emin Pasa sok. No:4, Sultanahmet, ☎ +90 212 511 53 33 - 34 ([email protected], fax: +90 212 522 31 50), [x]. Hotel Petrol Palace is housed in a hundred-year-old neoclassical Turkish house. Smoking and no smoking rooms are available.€ 49/59/77 for single/double/triple rooms. Cheaper Nov-Mar.
Serenity Hotel Istanbul, Kucukayasofya Mahallesi Kasaposman Sokak No:27 Sultanahmet (Just next to Blue Mosque), ☎ +90 212 638 2802 ([email protected], fax: +90 212 638 2804), [x]. Breakfast and all the taxes included in price. Rooms include air-con, TV, laundry, free wireless connection and internet.Starts at €40/60 for singles/doubles.
Star Holiday Hotel, Divanyolu Street No:10 Sultanahmet (right in front of the Blue Mosque), ☎ +90 212 512 29 61 ([email protected], fax: +90 212 512 31 54), [x]. Breakfast on a nice terrace (right in front of the Blue Mosque) is included in the price at this standard hotel. Rooms include air-con, TV and minibar.Starts at €40/50 for singles/doubles in high season.
Stone Hotel Istanbul, Binbirdirek Mah.Sehit Mehmet pasa yokusu Sk.No 34 Sultanahmet, ☎ +90 212 638 1554 ([email protected], fax: +90 212 517 6330), [x]. Rooms with en-suite bathroom, satellite TV, and internet access.From € 45/55 for a single/double room.
Tulip Guesthouse, Akbiyik cad. Terbiyik Sokak No:15/2, Sultanahmet, ☎ +90 212 517 65 09 ([email protected]), [x]. Very friendly and helpful staff, two guys both university educated, intelligent, well acknowledged about Turkish history and Middle East politics, always eager to let you know about Istanbul's cultural events and highlights. Kitchen has a great view to Marmara with free coffee and Turkish tea.Dorm beds €10, en-suite rooms from €45.
Yeni Otel, at a side street 100 m from Sirkeci station. Go towards Sultanahmet and turn into the first street on the left. Shared basic bathrooms, hot water. Manager is friendly but has a limited knowledge of English.50 TL for a basic double.
Armada Hotel, Ahirkapi Sok. 24, 34122 Cankurtaran, Istanbul. Semi modern hotel. Free wireless. Located in Sultanahmet between the sea and the Blue Mosque. Working aircon, fridge. Own bathroom. The restaurant at the top of the building with a nice view of the sea and the Blue Mosque. Price via hotels.com: 42 EUR double room.
Armagrandi Spina Hotel, Utangac Sok. 19, 34400 Sultanahmet, +90 212 638 1727 ([email protected]) [22]. A beautifully renovated boutique hotel that has excellent off-season deals (€60/night via hotels.com) and decent mid-range prices during peak season. Smaller rooms are great for couples. Breakfast on terrace included, with an amazing view of Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia. You may see one or both from your room window, too. Elevator, no frills minibar, free wifi, exceptional staff.
Aslan Apartments Istanbul (Aslan Apartments Istanbul), Emin Sinan Mah. Satir Sokak No:5 Sultanahmet Fatih (About 350 meters downhill from Cemberlitas Tram Stop), ☎ +90 553 221-4224 ([email protected], fax: +90 212 381-7688), [x]. checkin: 14:00; checkout: 11:00. 5 beautifully furnished self catering apartments in the same building walking distance to Istanbul Old City Center: The Hippodrome Square. Each accommodation type offers a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, air conditioning, and a washing machine. A private bathroom comes with a shower or bath. The private kitchen has a stove, microwave, and refrigerator. A dishwasher and a dining table are also provided. Nearby restaurants and cafes offer dishes and drinks that suit all kinds of culinary tastes.from EUR 69. (41.00659900000001,28.97021590000001)
Berkin Hotel, Alemdar Mahallesi, Divan Yolu Caddesi Çatalçeşme Sokak, No: 18 - 20 Sultanahmet Istanbul. [23] hotel in a very central location in Sultanahmet.10 mins to Blue Mosque by cab. Free wireless is available in the reception area. Clean but small rooms. Double rooms starting at €75/night.
Blue House Hotel (Mavi Ev), Dalbasti Sokak No:14, Sultanahmet, +90 212 638 90 10/11/12/13/14/15/16 (fax: +90 212 638 9017, [email protected]) [24]. Opened in July 1997 and is located at the heart of the old city center, steps away from the world-famous Blue Mosque. €120/140 for single/double in high season.
Dersaadet Hotel, Kapiağasi Sokak No:5, Sultanahmet (one block below Kucukayasofya Caddesi), +90 212 458 07 60 (fax: +90 212 518 49 18 [email protected]) [25]. Boutique hotel on a quiet street 5-10 minute walk from the Blue Mosque and Ayasofya. Rooms are decorated in 19th-century Ottoman-style and come with air-con, TV, mini-bar, and safe, and all guests can use the high-speed internet/Wi-Fi in the lobby. The rooftop terrace looks out over the Sea of Marmora and part of the Blue Mosque. The room rate includes breakfast. €95/105 for single/double in high season, suites are €120 - 240 depending on the time of year and room (10% discount if paid in cash).
Empress Zoe, Adliye Sokak No:10 (near Akbiyik Caddesi), Sultanahmet, +90 212 518 2504 (fax: +90 212 518 5699, [email protected]) [26]. A wonderful little hotel in a quiet street just off Sultanahmet, with spartan but elegant rooms decorated in Turkish style and beautiful views over the Hagia Sophia from the rooftop terrace. All mod cons including bathroom, air-con, safe. Rooms from €90 and suites from €220, including breakfast.
Erguvan Hotel Istanbul, Aksakal Cad. No:3 Sultanahmet, +90 212 4582784 ([email protected]) [27]. Rooms with air-con, satellite TV.
Esans Hotel Old City Istanbul, Ishakpasa Cd. Yenisarachane Sokak No:4, Sultanahmet Old City Istanbul, +90 212 516 19 02 (fax: +90 212 516 19 03 [email protected]) [28]. Traditional Family-Run Unique hotel on a quiet street 3 minutes walk from Ayasofya. Rooms are decorated in 19th-century Ottoman-style with air-con, TV, mini-bar and safe, Wi-Fi in the lobby. Complimentary International Phone Call and selected essence to be placed in the room. The rooftop terrace looks out over the Sea of Marmara and Princess Islands. The room rate includes breakfast. €95/110 for single/double in high season, suites are €120 - 190 depending on the time of year and room (5% discount if paid in cash and free airport transfer with 4 nights).
Eski Konak Hotel Istanbul, Cankurtaran Mahallesi Akbiyik Cad. No:44, Sultanahmet, +90 212 458 74 23 ([email protected]) [29]. In the heart of the historical Sultanahmet, one of Istanbul's newest hotels. Just a short walk to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. Friendly multilingual staff. 9 rooms.
Garden House Hotel-Sultanahmet, Kucuk Ayosofya Mahallesi Sehit Mehmet Pasa Sok.Sultanahmet, Istanbul ([email protected] 0212 517 9111). is one of the best lodging options in Istanbul Sultanahmet Old City. Located in a typical and recently remodeled 19th Century Ottoman House building, it is a peaceful setting in a residential area and proximity minutes by walk to St Sophia Church, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar make it the perfect hotel for both leisure, Honeymoon and family stays. This Boutique and Luxury Hotel has a stunning design, elegant and romantic, each room tastefully decorated and has the very well signs of 19th Century Turkish architecture displaying the immaculate attention to detail reconstructed to provide the ideal blend of color, texture, and atmosphere. The hotel gets its name from the Gardens it has.
Ibrahim Pasha, Terzihane Sok. No. 5, Adliye Yani, Sultanahmet, +90 212 518 0394 (fax: +90 212 518 4457, [email protected]) [30]. A lovely boutique hotel just steps away from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. The room rates include a full Turkish breakfast in the dining area off the main lobby. The hotel has a rooftop sitting area with direct views of most of the major sites in Sultanahmet - an incomparable vista as the moon rises on a clear evening. The comfortable rooms have all mod-cons, including wi-fi. The staff is attentive, courteous, and helpful. Highly recommended. Rooms from €125 for a standard.
Inter Istanbul Hotel (Budget rates on mid-range facilities), Mithatpasa Cad. Buyuk Haydar Efendi Sok. No: 29 Beyazit, (+90 212) 518 35 35 (Fax: (+90 212) 518 35 38, [email protected]) [31]. Away from the crowd and touts of Sultanahmet yet within walking distance (approx. 7-10 minutes). Located on a quiet street stone-throw away from the Grand Bazaar, Beyazit tram station, and buses that goes to Taksim and other parts of Istanbul (2-minute walk). Modern-style rooms, comfy beds, TV with English programs and news, wi-fi connection in rooms and a free PC use at the lobby, helpful staff that make-up rooms and replaces towels daily. €35/40 single, €45/50 double, €55-60 triple, €65-80 family (winter/summer) inclusive of breakfast. 10% discount on cash payments and free airport-hotel pick-up (min. 3 days stay).
Istanbul Hotel Bulvar Palas (Budget rates), Atatürk Bulvarı, No: 36 Saraçhane,Fatih, İstanbul (+90 212) 528 58 81 , [email protected]) [32]. Rooms with en-suite bathrooms, air-con, satellite TV, and free internet access. From € 50/70/90/100/120 for single/double/triple/quad/family rooms.
Med Cezir Hotel, Tevkifhane Sok. No: 6 Sultanahmet, +90 212 517 59 35 ([email protected]) [33]. Small hotel and restaurant located right beside the Four Seasons Hotel. Comfortable and well-appointed guest rooms with or without a private bathroom. Offering exceptional views of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, the terrace bar is the perfect place for a drink in the evening. 24-hour room service is available. 10 rooms.
Niles Istanbul Hotel, Dibekli Cami Sokak No:19, Beyazit, +90 212 517 32 39 (fax: +90 212 516 07 32, [email protected]) [34]. Another Ottoman mansion converted to a hotel is located five minutes from the Grand Bazaar. Rooms come with air-con, TV, mini-bar, and Wi-Fi, and there is high-speed internet in the lobby. Complimentary breakfast is served on the rooftop terrace, which overlooks the Sea of Marmora. €55/65 for single/double in high season (10% discount if paid in cash).
Ottoman Hotel Imperial, Caferiye Sokak No:6/1 Sultanhamet, +90 212 513 61 51, [35]. An unbeatable view of Hagia Sophia Museum and Sultanahmet Square and a blend of Ottoman and Istanbul cuisine is what you'll experience at the Ottoman Hotel Imperial. With its exquisitely furnished guest rooms reflecting the Ottoman art, trend-setting restaurants and bars, extensive guest services, and in-house amenities, Ottoman Hotel Imperial responds to the needs of the most demanding leisure and business travelers. Rooms start at €100/120 for single/double in high season.
Rose Garden Suites Kucukayasofya mah sehit mehmet pasa sokak no : 5 Sultanhamet, +90 212 514 00 80 (fax: +90 212 517 00 80, [36], [email protected] The Rose Garden Suite’s have only 13 rooms with a unique design or Turkish architecture. The hotel is located very close to the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Covered Bazaar. The rates are from 49 to 219 Euro All year around
Sultan Hill Hotel, Tavukhane sok. No:17-19-21 Sultanahmet, +90 212 5183293 ([email protected]) [37].The hotel has been completely restored to resemble the original 18th century Ottoman house previously on the site. The panoramic view from the terrace is stunning with views of the sea and the Blue Mosque. The hotel is located within walking distance of all the major tourist attractions. There are 17 rooms, a traditional courtyard, and a roof terrace bar. All rooms have air-con, mini-bar, TV, wi-fi and a safe. Room rates include breakfast. Room rates: single room 60 EUR, double 80 EUR, triple 120 EUR, and family 140 EUR throughout the year.
Sultanhan Hotel Piyerloti Caddesi No:15/17 Sultanhamet, +90 212 516 32 32 (fax: +90 212 516 59 95, [email protected]), [38]. This five-floor hotel features 40 guestrooms, all of which have Ottoman-style decor with patterned fabrics and chestnut furnishings. All are equipped with internet connections, satellite television, and minibars. €190/230 for single/double in high season.
Tashkonak Hotel, Kucuk Ayasofya Cad. Tomurcuk Sokak 5 Sultanahmet, (+90 212) 518 28 82 (Fax: (+90 212) 638 84 91, [email protected]) [39]. This quaint hotel offers great rooms, exceptionally friendly staff, and some of the best views of the Sea of Marmara anywhere in Sultanahmet. They also have free wi-fi, TV with English channels, and a complimentary breakfast buffet every morning. Prices range from €50 for a single room up to €165 for a family room. 8% discount if paying with cash and free airport pickup is available.
Tulip House, Katip Sinan Cami Sok. No:28 (close to Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet tram stop), ☎ ''+90'' 2124588403, [x]. Beside everything required in a mid-class hotel such as open-buffet breakfast, wi-fi, clean rooms, bathrooms etc, Tulip House has very large rooms with high ceilings and perfect sea view, try to rent a room on the seaside with balcony, for a perfect evening. The guys running the place are exceptionally helpful, especially Emrah who has a very large acknowledge bout Istanbul and Turkish history.
Yasmak Sultan Hotel, Ebusuud caddesi no: 14 34110 Sirkeci, +90 212 528 13 43 [email protected] , [40]. Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar are at your doorstep, and the City Center is within walking distance of the Yasmak Hotels which offer an array of comforts and services to render your stay a delightful experience. Yasmak Sultan, one of the oldest hotels in Istanbul, has been home-away-from-home to countless guests since 1965. This hotel offers a boutique ambiance and first-class amenities in the hotel quality. Room rates and prices start at €75/100 for single/double in high season.
Celal Aga Konagi Hotel at Beyazit, Sehzadebasi, Balabanaga Mah. Sehzadebasi Caddesi No:5/7, Sehzadebasi-Eminönü, +90 212 519 09 09 (fax: 90 212 514 09 09), [41]. With free spa and pool facilities and free wireless internet, Celal Aga Konagi Hotel provides luxurious accommodation in the heart of Istanbul. A 5-minute walk away and the Grand Bazaar and Blue Mosque is just a 20-minute walk away. Standard rooms start around $350.
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, Tevkifhane Sokak No:1, Sultanahmet-Eminönü, +90 212 638 82 00 (fax: 90 212 638 82 10), [42]. A converted prison in the historic Sultanahmet district. Offers stunning views of the Haghia Sophia, but no pool. Standard rooms start at around $420.
Oba Hotel Istanbul (Sultanahmet hotels Ottoman House Hotel in the old city), KüçükAyayofya Mah.Özbekler Sok., 26 (280 meters south of Hippodrome and Blue Mosque), ☎ +905324216164, [x]. checkin: 14:00; checkout: 12:00. This boutique hotel is in the center of Sultanahmet, the heart of the city and history, is just steps away from the Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia Museum, Sultanahmet Mosque, Archeological museum, The Basilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar and its distance to the Istanbul Ataturk Airport is only 17km. It is situated in a calm neighborhood at Kucuk Ayasofya, right across of the Sokullu Mehmet Pasha Mosque, near the seaside of Kadirga and Kumkapi neighborhoods.Appx. 30 EURO. (41°00'18.0N,28°58'17.7E)
Prince Hotel, Nobethane Caddesi Kargili, Sok. No: 5 Sirkeci, i Istanbul Turkey, ☎ +90 (212) 513 25 50 ([email protected], fax: +90 (212) 522 43 59), [x]. Hotel offeres 127 modernly decorated rooms for business and leisure travellers.
Sirkeci Mansion Hotel, Taya Hatun Sokak 5, Sirkeci, ☎ +90 212 528 43 44 ([email protected], fax: +90 212 528 44 55), [x]. A charming hotel which offers rooms with air-con, satellite TV, free wireless internet connection. While listed here as a 'splurge', the room prices are generally similar to many mid-range hotels. The New York Times called it "a reasonable option" getting "all As for effort and implementation". Guests are served a complimentary breakfast.
Sultania Hotel, Ebusuud caddesi Mehmet Murat Sokak No: 4 Sirkeci Sultanahmet, +90 212 528 08 06 (fax: 90 212 511 99 16), [43]. A new hotel opened in 2010 with 42 unique rooms which all the rooms are dedicated to the famous sultan wives. This is a concept hotel offering boutique hotel services and amenities. The room rates start at 120 € as a discounted opening year rate.
The focal point of the peninsula for travelers, Sultanahmet Square, is safe and policed during day and night, so by staying within the realms of common sense, you shouldn't encounter problems there. However, there are some issues to keep in mind for the rest of the old city:
The dilapidated, though picturesque, neighborhoods around Süleymaniye, Zeyrek, the banks of Golden Horn west of Atatürk Boulevard (i.e., neighborhoods of Balat, Fener, Ayvansaray), along the old city walls, and along the Marmara coast (especially Kumkapı west to Yedikule) are home to the impoverished recent immigrants to the city. While this doesn't automatically translate to unsafety, you may feel more comfortable if you avoid these places (especially narrow back alleys) during the evening and night. Around the main tourist sights, and the main streets leading to them, in these neighborhoods, such as Süleymaniye Mosque or the taverns at Kumkapı, are perfectly safe, though.
Scams involving extremely overpriced drinks are common at nightclubs around Aksaray, which are best avoided completely. These are quite dangerous with the possible involvement of organized crime. See the "stay safe" section of the main Istanbul article for more details on this.
Around Aksaray and Laleli, there are a number of illegal brothels which are not controlled by health authorities in any way. If you choose to engage in such activity, keep in mind that the (usually Eastern European and Central Asian) women you will encounter are more often than not involuntarily forced into prostitution to "pay off" the cost of their trip to Istanbul (where they were hoping to get decent jobs) and had their passports seized by their "boss". 24-hr national hotline phone # 157, with operators speaking in English, Russian, and Romanian in addition to Turkish is where you can report such incidents to bring the victims to safety.
In Eminönü's crowded underground passages (and in the rest of Eminönü, in general), be extremely wary of pickpockets, especially when climbing up and down the stairs.
Istanbul Police Department has a "tourism police" office with multilingual staff in Sultanahmet, just across the street from Hagia Sophia, where you can report passport loss or any other problems.
This is a usable article. It has information for getting in as well as some complete entries for restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please plunge forward and help it grow!
