Places to see in Sirkeci

Sirkeci Train Station (TCDD Railway Museum): Never miss a visit to Sirkeci Train Station, one of the most historic places in Istanbul. Built in 1890, this station was the starting point of famous train lines such as Orient Express in Istanbul. The Railway Museum inside the station is another delight. While learning about the history of trains, you can take a nostalgic journey with the railway equipment from the old era. It is not only a railway station, but also a treasure that carries the past to the future.

Büyük Post Office Building: This huge building, very close to Sirkeci Station, is not only a postal center, but also a point where every letter and every cargo coming to Istanbul once passed through. This place is so magnificent that you lose track of time while walking around. The museum on the lower floor of the building is a great place to learn about postal history. There are many collections from old stagecoaches to letter stamps.

Vilayet Mosque: If you need a little more quiet, you can visit the Vilayet Mosque near the center of Sirkeci. Dating back to 1344, this mosque stands out with its simple yet elegant structure. I suggest you take some time to examine the architectural details because there is a calmness in the interior that impresses you. It was restored in 2012 to its present form.

Hobyar Mosque: Another historical mosque is Hobyar Mosque. It is a simple but impressive building from the Ottoman period. Built in 1473, seeing this mosque is the perfect opportunity to feel the spirit of Istanbul. With its tranquil atmosphere outside, it gives the feeling that time has stopped for a moment.

Rustem Pasha Mosque: Be sure to see Mimar Sinan's masterpiece, Rüstem Pasha Mosque. Especially the tile workmanship in its interior will fascinate you. The tile patterns are so finely crafted that you lose yourself while watching each one. The fact that it is very close to the Spice Bazaar makes it easy for you to explore this place.

Spice Bazaar: If you are interested in the famous bazaars of Istanbul, the Spice Bazaar welcomes you with its colorful shops and fragrant scents of spices. You can find many traditional Turkish products from spices to Turkish delight. Before you visit, take some time to wander around the shops, every step inside feels like stepping into another world.

Eminönü New Mosque (Valide Sultan Mosque): Located right next to Sirkeci, the New Mosque shows just how much beauty it adds to Istanbul's skyline. Inside this 18th century mosque, you can see traces of baroque and rococo style. Spending some time in the peaceful atmosphere, especially in the courtyard of the mosque, allows you to get away from the stress of the day.

İşbank Museum of Turkey: If you are interested in banking, you will definitely be interested in the İşbank Museum. You can see a wide variety of artifacts here, from old bank machines to safe collections. While visiting the museum, you will also discover the history of banking and the financial development of Istanbul.

For accommodation suggestions, you can check our Sirkeci Hotels page.