Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet – Istanbul’s Must Visit District

You don’t have to know a lot about Istanbul to know that it is steeped in history. As the former capital city of several important empires in the past, including the Ottoman Empire, Istanbul is a city that still looks old today. That’s not to say it is falling down, far from it, but it’s almost like a window to the past. When you combine this with the ultra-modern skyscrapers, business districts, and huge housing developments that are popping up, you can really see just how much of a wonderful contradiction Istanbul is.

A city that straddles two continents, you’ll find old and new at every corner, but without a doubt one of the most historical parts of this beautiful city is Sultanahmet.

Famous for its attractions, including Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Sophia, to name just a few, Sultanahmet is a wonderful part of the city to visit, and if you choose not to head here at least once or twice, you’ve totally missed out. Visiting Istanbul and not going to Sultanahmet should actually be a crime!

Sultanahmet is quite hilly, so do bear that in mind when walking around, but by foot is certainly the best way to see everything this beautiful and historic district has on offer. There are many winding streets which head off the main stretch of road, and this is where you will find some delicious and traditional Turkish restaurants, serving food in authentic Ottoman style. As you eat, usually outdoors under a heater, or indoors if it’s raining, you’ll be serenaded by the odd group of musicians who wander around the streets, playing traditional music for guests. If you enjoy what you’re hearing, give them a lira or two to say thank you.

There are also many gift shops around this part of the city, but rather than High Street names as you would find in Taksim, it is more about souvenir shops. You’ll find many Turkish delight stores, so if you love this sweet treat, this part of the city is where you’re best to stock up.

Sultanahmet is served by the Metro and it is also a close point to get onto the Marmaray, over to the other side of the water. There are trams which run around the main streets, so do be careful when crossing the road, but again, this is a great way to get around, whilst saving your feet if you don’t want to walk.

This part of the city can get very busy, and it is mostly tourists you will find walking around. If you thought that Taksim was an international part of the city, you’ll only have to visit Sultanahmet for a few minutes to see that this part is just as varied too. You’ll see tour groups from China, Japanese groups, Spanish, Australian, American, backpackers, basically you’ll come into contact with people from all over the world, all striving to learn about the wonderful blend of history that this neighbourhood calls home.

Of course, if you want to escape from the hustle and bustle, simply amble your way to Gulhane Park and enjoy the peace and quiet. This huge green space is ideal for breathing in some fresh air, away from the big city life, and you’ll actually feel like you’re a million miles away from a huge metropolis!

Sultanahmet’s Big Three

There are more than three tourist attractions in Sultanahmet for sure, but there are three which stand out in terms of popularity and crowds. These are the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. The Blue Mosque is free to enter, but do bear in mind that it is going to be closed to visitors at certain times of the day and week, because it is a working mosque and place of worship. Always remember to dress suitably, and remove your shoes, with ladies covering their heads.

Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace have admission fees attached to them, but they are covered by the Istanbul Museum Card, which is certainly a money saver. You don’t have to queue when you have this card too, which saves time in the process.

All three of these attractions should be visited at least once in your lifetime, and it’s easy to pack them into one holiday, mainly because they are located so close to one another. Hagia Sophia can be done in a couple of hours, as can The Blue Mosque. Topkapi Palace is very large, so half a day would cover it comfortably.

Put simply, it’s a must do to visit Sultanahmet.