Exploring Sultanahmet in Istanbul – Our Top Recommendations

There is something unique about “the city of the world’s desire” that words may never fully capture. If you’re planning a trip to Turkey, you’ve likely heard of Sultanahmet.

Commonly known as the “Old City,” it is one of the most famous areas in Istanbul, celebrated for its historic buildings, bustling bazaars, Ottoman mosques, and rustic charm.

Why did we choose to stay in Sultanahmet?

During our recent trip to Turkey, we chose to stay in Sultanahmet—and here’s why! Located in the heart of Istanbul, Sultanahmet is unmatched when it comes to showcasing the city’s rich culture.

If you live by the saying, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do,” then this is the perfect place for you to stay.

This historic area, which once served as the capital of both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, is also conveniently close to all of Istanbul’s major attractions—making travel one less thing to worry about.

Warning! Why you should not stay in Sultanahmet Istanbul!

Before making your decision, consider some of the drawbacks of staying in Istanbul’s Old City. While the area is beautiful and we thoroughly enjoyed our time there, it might not be the ideal choice for everyone—so we encourage you to keep the following points in mind:

• As a prime tourist location, Sultanahmet is extremely crowded. If you prefer staying in a quieter, more remote area, Sultanahmet may not be the right option for you.

• Due to its popularity among tourists, Sultanahmet tends to have higher prices for accommodations, restaurants, and souvenir shops compared to other neighborhoods in Istanbul, Turkey.

• Sultanahmet is not known for its vibrant nightlife. If you enjoy lively bars, clubs, or late-night entertainment, consider staying in areas like Beyoğlu or Kadıköy, which are better known for their nightlife scenes.

 

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Make the most out of your time in Sultanahmet, things you cannot miss!

Sultanahmet is full of surprises and stunning tourist attractions, but here are some places you absolutely cannot miss:

Hagia Sophia Mosque

If you’re someone interested in history, religion, and culture, Hagia Sophia Mosque is a must-visit! Built in 537 AD, it was once the largest cathedral in the Byzantine Empire. Today, it has been restored as a mosque and also functions as a museum.

We were personally amazed by its magnificent Turkish architecture and the fascinating story of how it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman Empire took over.

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is a colossal structure that will leave you in awe of the skill and vision of Ottoman architects.

With a majestic central dome surrounded by six minarets and eight smaller domes, the Blue Mosque is definitely a must-visit in Sultanahmet, Istanbul.

We especially loved the intricate blue İznik tile work in the interior, which gives the mosque its iconic color and name!

Topkapı Palace

Of all the places in Sultanahmet, Topkapı Palace has perhaps the most historical significance in Ottoman history. It served as the royal court for the Ottoman sultans and was the site of many strategic decisions.

The palace hosted important coronations and diplomatic meetings throughout the empire’s history. When we visited, we truly felt the royal vibe of the place—it spoke volumes about the Ottoman Empire’s grandeur and legacy.

Grand Bazaar

If you’re a shopaholic, you’ll love the Grand Bazaar—one of the most iconic landmarks in Sultanahmet’s Old City. For us, walking through the bazaar was an adventure in itself.

We bought plenty of gifts and souvenirs for friends and family. A word of advice: beware of people who try to scam tourists by quoting high prices. This is quite common in the bazaar. Be sure to bargain—vendors often quote triple (or even ten times) the actual price once they know you’re a tourist.

Dervish Performance

Your Old City Sultanahmet itinerary must include watching a Dervish performance.

Although you’ll find performances all across the city, we highly recommend experiencing one at the Hocapaşa Culture Center.

You’ll thank us later! This iconic ceremony has been declared a UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. If you’re traveling with kids, it’s something they’ll likely enjoy and remember.

 

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Gülhane Park

There was a time when Gülhane Park supplied roses to the Topkapı Palace. Located right next to the palace, it allows visitors to enjoy both the serenity of nature and the majesty of Ottoman heritage. It’s easily one of the most beautiful places we visited in Old City Sultanahmet.

With its enchanting rose gardens, scenic pathways, and peaceful atmosphere, it offers a welcome escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The best time to visit is during the Tulip Festival, when the park bursts into vibrant color with blooming tulips and roses.

The Old City at Night

While not known for flashy nightlife with clubs and pubs, Old City Istanbul has its own charm after dark. Here are a few things we enjoyed—and highly recommend you consider:

• Take a leisurely stroll around Sultanahmet Square to admire the beautifully illuminated Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

• Walk along the shores of the Bosphorus and soak in the stunning nighttime views of Istanbul’s skyline.

• Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner with your partner or family at one of the cozy local restaurants serving authentic cuisine.

• Attend a mesmerizing Dervish performance for a unique and cultural end to your day.

Sign up for Photo Tours

Street and rooftop photoshoots are quite popular in Istanbul. Dress to the nines and get ready to hit the streets with your personal photographer in Sultanahmet. There are many photo studios in the area, and your photographer can capture your special moments beautifully.

There are also small photo studios where they let you wear traditional Turkish dresses and take excellent pictures for you. One such amazing photo studio in Sultanahmet is PHOTTOMAN.

There’s something magical about Old City Istanbul, and I’ve done my best to capture that through this blog. We had an amazing time there and wish the same for you. I hope this little piece helps you make the right decisions while planning your itinerary.