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Sultanahmet, located in the heart of Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula, is home to invaluable structures such as the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and the Hippodrome.
Why Stay in Sultanahmet?
Sultanahmet is not only one of the top places to visit in Istanbul, but also answers the question of “Where to stay in Istanbul?” Its central location provides easy access to all parts of Istanbul. Sultanahmet hotels, offering a range of affordable prices, welcome hundreds of thousands of guests each year, making it an ideal choice for those planning a vacation in Istanbul and searching for Istanbul hotel Sultanahmet options.
When to Visit Sultanahmet?
No matter what time of year you visit Sultanahmet, you will encounter numerous tourist groups with their cameras and curious gazes. As one of the most popular tourist spots in Istanbul, Sultanahmet sees high occupancy rates in its hotels year-round. However, with a wide variety of both affordable and luxurious hotels, everyone can find a room that meets their expectations.
Sultanahmet Hotels
If you want to feel the nostalgic atmosphere of Istanbul and walk through historic streets to your hotel, Sultanahmet Hotels are perfect for you. Many of these boutique hotels operate on a Bed and Breakfast or Room Only basis, and Sura Hotels can help you find a choice that suits your taste and expectations. Whether you stay in budget-friendly Sultanahmet Motels or Sultanahmet Apart Hotels, you can easily compare hotel prices onSura Hotels’s website and mobile app to find the best fit for you. Keep an eye on Istanbul hotel deals to benefit from discounts and special offers. Sura Hotels also provides installment payment options with up to 9 months on credit cards.
How to Get to Sultanahmet?
Situated between Eminönü and Beyazıt on Istanbul’s European side, Sultanahmet is at the heart of Istanbul’s rich transportation network. From almost anywhere in Istanbul, you can take a bus to Eminönü or Beyazıt and then walk to Sultanahmet in about 10-15 minutes. You can also take the Kabataş-Zeytinburnu tram line and get off directly at the Sultanahmet stop.
If you’re using the Marmaray, get off at Sirkeci station. From there, you can either walk for 5 minutes or transfer to the Kabataş-Zeytinburnu tram line to reach Sultanahmet. If flying into Istanbul, you can take the Airport-Yenikapı metro line from Atatürk Airport on the European side and transfer to the tram line at Zeytinburnu, Topkapı, or Aksaray stations. From Sabiha Gökçen Airport, you can use the Havaş shuttle or E-11 bus line to Kadıköy and then take a ferry or boat to Eminönü.
Must-See Places in Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet Square
Once a hippodrome hosting chariot races during the Byzantine era, Sultanahmet Square now enchants visitors with historical remnants from that time, preserving its central role in Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia
One of the world’s most important historical structures, Hagia Sophia was built between 532-537 AD by Byzantine Emperor Justinian. It was converted into a mosque after the conquest of Istanbul, and later into a museum. Its grandiose structure continues to captivate tourists, being known as the Third Hagia Sophia since it was the third construction on the same site.
Sultanahmet – Basilica Cistern
One of the must-visit sites in Istanbul is the Basilica Cistern, the largest underground cistern in the city, built in the 6th century with 336 columns. Don’t miss the Medusa heads located in the northwest corner if you are interested in Greek mythology.
Sultanahmet – Serpent Column
The Serpent Column, one of Sultanahmet’s most famous landmarks, consists of three intertwined snakes. Thought to protect the city from pests and reptiles, two of the snake heads have gone missing, with one displayed in the Istanbul Archaeology Museum.
Sultanahmet – Obelisk of Theodosius
Located next to the Serpent Column, the Obelisk of Theodosius was brought from Egypt by the Roman Emperor and has survived for 3500 years. Made of granite and weighing around 200 tons, it is one of Istanbul’s oldest historical artifacts.
Sultanahmet – Gülhane Park
Once the garden of the Topkapi Palace, Gülhane Park is one of Istanbul’s most relaxing parks, known for hosting significant historical events. It’s a great spot for a break, surrounded by greenery and the sounds of birds.
Sultanahmet – Blue Mosque
Also known as Sultanahmet Mosque, this landmark bears the signature of the prominent Ottoman architect Sedefkâr Mehmet Ağa. Decorated with famous Iznik tiles, the mosque remains an impressive example of classical Ottoman architecture, attracting both worshippers and tourists from around the world.
What to Eat in Sultanahmet?
Istanbul is a gastronomic paradise, with unique local flavors and international cuisine. When in Sultanahmet, you must try the famous Sultanahmet köftesi and piyaz. For a comparison, visit Filibe Köftecisi in Sirkeci. Don’t forget to cross to Eminönü for a fish sandwich or head to Süleymaniye near Beyazıt for the city’s most famous baked beans. For dessert lovers, try the halka tatlısı and ice cream-filled semolina halva from street vendors in Eminönü.
Entertainment in Sultanahmet
Some Sultanahmet hotels organize live music evenings in their restaurants. Additionally, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars in the area. For more vibrant nightlife, including concerts and nightclubs, head to Karaköy and Taksim. During Ramadan, Sultanahmet hosts many events and a nightly market, making it a popular spot for Istanbul residents to experience a nostalgic Ramadan evening.
Shopping in Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet’s most well-known shopping spots are the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar. The area is also famous for its carpet shops, souvenir stores, and silver shops. Being close to Cağaloğlu, once the publishing center of Istanbul, and the Sahaflar Book Market, it’s also a great place for book shopping.
Nearby shopping spots include Eminönü, known for bridal, food, clothing, accessories, electronics, and more, featuring classic shopping destinations like Doğubank, Mercan Yokuşu, Kürkçü Han, and Gürün Han.
Contact Information for Sura Hotels in Sultanahmet
For a luxurious stay in Sultanahmet, consider Sura Hotels. Here are their contact details:
- Website: Sura Hotels
- Phone: +90 212 513 77 77
- Email: info@surahotels.com
- Address:
- Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel: Divan Yolu Cd. Alemdar Mahallesi Ticarethane Sk. No:10 Sultanahmet, 34122 Istanbul, Turkey
- Sura Design Hotel & Suites: Divanyolu Cd. Alemdar Mah. Ticarethane Sk. No: 43, Sultanahmet, 34110 Istanbul, Turkey