The Heart of Istanbul: Sultanahmet Square
Discover the historical charm and architectural grandeur of Sultanahmet Square, a must-visit plaza in the heart of Istanbul, surrounded by iconic landmarks.
Sultanahmet Square is a vibrant historical plaza in the heart of Istanbul, surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. This lively space, perfect for tourists, offers a unique blend of culture, history, and stunning architecture. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, take in the breathtaking views, and immerse themselves in the rich history of this remarkable city.
A brief summary to Sultanahmet Square
- Sultan Ahmet Parkı No:2, Fatih, Binbirdirek, İstanbul, 34122, TR
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
- Explore the nearby cafes and shops for authentic Turkish snacks and souvenirs.
- Check for local events or festivals that may be happening in the square during your visit for a unique experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll likely do a lot of walking around the square and the surrounding historic sites.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from anywhere in Bithynia, first locate the main road heading towards Istanbul. Follow the signs for the O-1 or O-2 highway towards Istanbul. As you approach the city, look for signs indicating 'Fatih' or 'Sultanahmet'. Once you reach the Fatih district, follow the signs for Sultanahmet Square. There is limited parking available around the square, so be prepared to find a parking garage nearby, which may incur a fee of approximately 20-30 Turkish Lira per hour.
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Public Transportation - Bus
Take a bus from your location in Bithynia to Istanbul. Many buses run to the main bus terminal in Istanbul. From there, you can take the 'Havaist' shuttle bus service directly to Sultanahmet. The fare for the shuttle is around 30 Turkish Lira. Once you arrive at the Sultanahmet stop, you will be just a short walk from Sultanahmet Square.
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Public Transportation - Metro
If you are near a metro station, take the metro line towards 'Aksaray'. Transfer at Aksaray station to the Tramway (T1) heading towards 'Kabataş'. Get off at the 'Sultanahmet' stop. The tram fare is approximately 15 Turkish Lira. Sultanahmet Square is directly accessible from the tram station.
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Walking
If you are staying in a nearby area within Bithynia, walking can be a pleasant option. Use your smartphone’s GPS to navigate towards Sultanahmet Square, which is located at Binbirdirek, Sultan Ahmet Parkı No:2, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul. The square is surrounded by historical landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, making for a scenic walk.
Discover more about Sultanahmet Square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Obelisk of Theodosius
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Hippodrome of Constantinople
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Küçük Sur Kalıntıları
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St. EUPHEMIA`S MARTYRION
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The Hollow Tree
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Binbirdirek Cistern
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Blue Underground Modern City-Toilet
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Sultan Ahmet Park
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Arasta Bazaar
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Hotel Sultanahmet Palace
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Divan yolu caddesi
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İstanbul
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Talat Pasha Mansion
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Turkey Trips
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III. Ahmet Fountain
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Unmissable attractions to see
Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum
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Serpent Column
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German Fountain
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Örme Dikilitaş
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The Blue Mosque
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Sultan Ahmet Tomb
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Mehmet Akif Ersoy Park
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Guided Istanbul Tours
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Cisterna
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Sultanahmet
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Cistern Art Gallery
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The Stone of Million
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Great Palace Mosaics Museum
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Basilica Cistern
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Cistern of Theodosius
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Essential places to dine
Fine Dine İstanbul
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Erhan Restaurant
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Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi Selim Usta
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Ozi Pizza and Pasta
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Khorasani Restaurant
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Adonin Restaurant
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Doy Doy Restaurant
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Eagles İstanbul Restaurant
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Sultan Köşesi Restaurant
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Fuego Cafe & Restaurant
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Massa Bistro
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Rumeli Restaurant
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İstanbul kebab cafe & restaurant
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Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe
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dubb Indian Restaurant (Sultanahmet)
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hippodrome Store
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ISTANBLUE GIFT SHOP
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Sönmez A.S.
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Unique Gift İstanbul
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Noah's Ark Rugs & Souvenirs
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Saleh Ic ve Dis Ticaret
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Jennifer's Hamam
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Gallery Antique
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DJEM UNIQUE IDEAS
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Arasta Gift
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Zakir Gallery
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THE HAMAM Organic turkish handmade textile - linen
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Kashif Boutique
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LOTI GIFT SHOP
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Tree of Life Ceramics & Gift Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
GRACE Rooftop Restaurant
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Sultan Pub & Cafe
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Harab'be Cafe
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Ber bar
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Loti Roof Lounge
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Rounders İrish Bar
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Süreyya Teras Lounge
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Jager Pub & Bar. Karaoke
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Queb Rooftop Restaurant
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Mitani Cafe
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Istanbul Party Pub Crawl
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Mesopotamian Breakfast Brunch Cafe
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BrusQ Bar
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Salute Pub & Restaurant
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Harmony Hilltop bar
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