10 Most Enjoyable Activities to Do in Sultanahmet

There are as many things to do in Sultanahmet for those visiting Istanbul for the first time as for those who want to rediscover the city. Located in the heart of the historical peninsula, this neighbourhood attracts thousands of travellers every season with its cultural heritage, impressive architecture and unique atmosphere.

Among the activities to do in Istanbul, one of the most curious ones is the places to visit in Sultanahmet. It is possible to spend a full day on this route ranging from mosques to museums, street flavours to scenic stops. Here are 10 activities you must experience in Sultanahmet:

1- Visit Hagia Sophia Mosque

Hagia Sophia is one of the rare buildings of Istanbul that has witnessed thousands of years of history. built in 537 as a church by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian, this building has been a sacred centre for different religions and empires for centuries. It is possible to see the huge dome, dazzling mosaics and traces of Islamic art together inside Hagia Sophia. When you step inside, it is impossible not to be mesmerised by the architecture. By visiting early in the morning, you can experience this unique structure in a quiet atmosphere away from the crowds.

2- Spend Time in the Courtyard of Blue Mosque

17. the Blue Mosque, built by Sultan Ahmet I. in the first century, is known for its interior architecture adorned with blue Iznik tiles. Its courtyard is a stop where visitors can both watch the architecture and relax. As you enter the courtyard, the footsteps coming from the stone pavements almost take you to the past. The play of light inside the mosque and the peaceful atmosphere under the large dome fascinate both worshippers and tourists. The reflection of the sunlight inside the mosque at noon offers an unmissable view especially for photography lovers.

3- Descend into the Mysterious World of Basilica Cistern

Dating back to the Byzantine period, the Basilica Cistern is a mystical world hidden under the city. supported by 336 columns, this underground structure is one of the fascinating examples of Roman architecture. The low lighting inside, the dim atmosphere and the water reflections on the floor give you the feeling of being in a film scene. The most striking part is the Medusa head sculptures placed upside down. These mythological details attract the attention of both history buffs and art lovers. Walking with classical music in the cistern is very impressive.

4- Traces of the Ottoman Empire in Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is a palace complex that served as the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire for 400 years. It offers visitors a deep historical journey with its different sections such as the Harem Department, the Divan-ı Hümayun, the sacred relics room and the kitchens. The Chinese and Japanese porcelain collections inside the palace are among the few collections worldwide. The gardens stretching across the Bosphorus are breathtaking. You can feel the atmosphere of the palace without the crowds by timing your visit in the morning.

5- Buy Handmade Souvenirs in Arasta Bazaar

Arasta Bazaar, a hidden gem behind the Blue Mosque, is full of local handicraft products. This bazaar, where you can find the best examples of traditional Turkish arts such as carpets, rugs, ceramics and copper embroidery, offers a more personal and intimate shopping experience unlike large shopping centres. You can learn the stories of the products by chatting with the shopkeepers and turn shopping into a cultural experience. The bazaar is quieter especially in the morning hours and you can examine the products comfortably.

6- Stay Alone with Nature in Gülhane Park

Gülhane Park is one of the rare areas where you can be alone with nature in the centre of the historical peninsula. This area, which was used as a palace garden during the Ottoman period, today offers an ideal environment for those who want to get away from the city chaos with wide walking paths, flower gardens and ponds. The most colourful time of the park is when the tulips bloom in spring. It is especially perfect for morning walks or relaxing in the shade with a book. You can enjoy the view from the tea gardens in the park.

7- Discover Istanbul Archaeological Museum

Istanbul Archaeological Museum is one of the first museums established during the Ottoman period and has one of the largest archaeological collections in the world. Sculptures, sarcophagi and inscriptions from ancient times are exhibited in the museum. Important artefacts such as the Sarcophagus of Alexander are a reason to visit for history lovers. The museum’s peaceful courtyard is ideal for relaxing at the end of your trip. Its richness is invaluable, especially for students and scholars of history.

8- Taste the Street Flavours

Sultanahmet district offers a different experience to its visitors not only with its history but also with its street flavours. You can taste the classic Turkish meatballs at Sultanahmet Köftecisi and buy hot semolina halva from the halvah shop just around the corner. Simit sellers, chestnut sellers and corn sellers also contribute to the cultural texture of the region. Even sitting on a bench in the historical atmosphere and watching people with a bagel in your hand can be an unforgettable memory of Istanbul. You can utilise your lunch breaks in this way.

9- Take a Nostalgic Journey by Tram

Although the T1 tram is one of Istanbul’s modern means of transport, it takes you on a nostalgic journey. Starting from Kabataş, it offers a journey intertwined with historical buildings along the route extending to Eminönü, Gülhane and finally Sultanahmet. Tram journeys, especially in the morning, can be an excellent source of motivation to start the day. The past and present of the city meet in the same frame while watching the outside from a seat by the window of the tram.

10- Finish the day at a panoramic rooftop: Queb Rooftop

Queb Rooftopis one of the best addresses for relaxing against the view after a full day in Sultanahmet. Located against the city’s historic skyline, this elegant venue is ideal for watching the sunset in the evening and experiencing exquisite flavours. The rich appetiser platters, fresh seafood and special cocktails on the menu will make you forget the tiredness of the day. Especially sitting against Hagia Sophia and the Bosphorus makes you feel the magic of Istanbul in a different dimension.