Hotels in Sultanahmet

Located on the European side of Istanbul, Sultanahmet carries traces of almost the entire history of the Ottoman Empire and is one of the top places tourists wish to see when visiting the city. Boutique and small hotels in Sultanahmet are also highly popular. Serving as a central spot for many local and foreign tourists, Sultanahmet is home to endless beauties, historical sites, and historic structures. It still carries the traces of the deep-rooted civilizations it hosted throughout history. One of the district's must-see landmarks is the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, a magnificent structure with six minarets designed by Sedefkar Mehmet Ağa, a student of Mimar Sinan. Sultanahmet boutique hotels are typically centrally located and close to historical landmarks, often housed in restored old buildings. These hotels cater to both cultural and business travelers year-round. While relaxing in the comfortable and clean rooms, you can also enjoy delicious meals at their restaurants.

When to Visit Sultanahmet?

Sultanahmet is one of Istanbul's most popular tourist destinations and can be visited year-round.

How to Get to Sultanahmet?

Sultanahmet is located on the European side of Istanbul. Once you arrive in Istanbul, you can reach Sultanahmet and its hotels via various public transportation options.
There are many ways to get to Istanbul from major cities across Turkey, including rail, road, sea, and air travel.
If you plan to drive, here are some travel distances:

Ankara – Istanbul: Approximately 450 km (5 hours 40 minutes)
Izmir – Istanbul: Approximately 565 km (8 hours 15 minutes)
Bursa – Istanbul: Approximately 240 km (4 hours)
Eskişehir – Istanbul: Approximately 325 km (3 hours 40 minutes)

Must-See Attractions in Sultanahmet

Known as the Historic Peninsula, this area is home to Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Sultan Ahmed Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar, and Spice Bazaar.
After visiting Topkapi Palace, you can take a tram to Eminönü, walk across Galata Bridge, and even climb the Galata Tower for a view of Istanbul.
At the Grand Bazaar, built in the 15th century, you can find regional clothing, jewelry, ceramics, antiques, and souvenirs. The Spice Bazaar is renowned for its spices and food items.
You can also visit the Cağaloğlu Hammam, dating back to the 1700s.
Don't miss Sultanahmet Square, Sultan Ahmed Mosque (also known as the Blue Mosque), Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern, and the 3rd Ahmet Fountain.
Sultanahmet is also home to the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, the Great Palace Mosaic Museum, and the Museum of the Ancient Orient.

Shopping Recommendations in Sultanahmet

• Grand Bazaar: One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, featuring around 4,000 shops selling jewelry, carpets, textiles, antiques, and more. Don't forget to bargain!
• Spice Bazaar: Famous for spices, nuts, teas, and souvenirs.
• Arasta Bazaar: Near the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, this market offers handmade carpets, ceramics, silverware, and other crafts.
• Tile Shops: Traditional Turkish tiles and ceramics, especially miniatures of the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, make for great souvenirs.

Entertainment in Sultanahmet

Museum and Historical Site Visits: Explore Hagia Sophia, Sultan Ahmed Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern for a journey through history.
Walking around Sultanahmet Square: Enjoy the lively atmosphere, shop at local stores, or relax at nearby cafés.
Dining Experiences: Taste traditional Turkish cuisine at the many restaurants and cafés around the area.
Traditional Turkish Night Shows: Enjoy local music and dance performances at some restaurants.
Tram Tour: A convenient and enjoyable way to explore Sultanahmet’s historic streets and nearby sites.

The History of Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet is one of Istanbul's oldest districts, with a history spanning thousands of years. Originally part of the ancient Greek colony of Byzantium, it later became an important area in the Roman and Byzantine Empires. When Emperor Constantine I rebuilt the city in 330 AD, this area became the city's center. The iconic Hagia Sophia was built by Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century. After the Ottoman conquest, Sultanahmet continued to be a significant cultural, religious, and commercial center. Today, it is one of the most visited tourist destinations worldwide.

Famous for Sultanahmet

Hagia Sophia: Initially a Byzantine church, later a mosque, and now a museum, built by Emperor Justinian I.
Topkapi Palace: The residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultans.
Sultan Ahmed Mosque: Known for its six minarets and also called the Blue Mosque.
Hippodrome: An ancient Roman racecourse and gathering space.
Basilica Cistern: The largest historical cistern in Istanbul.
Grand Bazaar: A vast shopping area with over 4,000 shops.

Where to Swim Near Sultanahmet?

Although Sultanahmet is near the sea, it is more of a historical and cultural area rather than a swimming spot.

Food and Drink Recommendations in Sultanahmet

Balıkçı Sabahattin and Magnaura Cafe & Restaurant for seafood.
Matbah Restaurant for Ottoman cuisine (also Michelin-awarded).
Erzincanlı Ali Baba in Süleymaniye for traditional kuru fasulye (bean stew).
Çağ Kebabı in Sirkeci for a delicious kebab experience.
Şahin Usta Döner for döner kebab near the Grand Bazaar.
Saade Kahvaltı for breakfast in Sultanahmet.
Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi or Kurukahveci Nuri Toplar for authentic Turkish coffee.
Sultanahmet Çiğdem Pastanesi for pastries.
Kuveloğlu Han's Historical Pide Bakery for delicious Turkish pide.