Historic Areas of Istanbul
Historic Areas of Istanbul
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Neighborhood: Sirkeci
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5,138 within 3 miles
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1,133 within 6 miles
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
10,709 reviews
Excellent
8,480
Very good
1,949
Average
232
Poor
30
Terrible
19
Ranjani K
Pondicherry, India4 contributions
Nov 2019
The Galada towers and the area surrounding are a fairytale town with steep streets, nice kind people, a fun funicular train and a breath taking view of the city from the tower. every ice-cream seller is also a performer to rival the best bar men and fun to watch. Juices to die for! loved wandering around.
Written January 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
594cecilyg
San Francisco, CA3 contributions
Aug 2021
The Basilica Cistern is closed. Hagia Sofia is entirely converted to Islamic worship at this point. The mosaics and floors are covered, the inner vestibule and galleries are closed. You can see one mosaic just above the tourist entrance, but otherwise there is little reason to visit unless you are Muslim. As a Christian woman I felt unwelcome.
What remains is one aggressive street vendor after another, literally stepping in front to block our path. Many men calling me "baby, baby, baby" when I refused purchases. I dressed modestly and wore a head scarf, but still was not allowed to simply walk around in peace. I expected to love Istanbul, but I just feel harassed.
What remains is one aggressive street vendor after another, literally stepping in front to block our path. Many men calling me "baby, baby, baby" when I refused purchases. I dressed modestly and wore a head scarf, but still was not allowed to simply walk around in peace. I expected to love Istanbul, but I just feel harassed.
Written August 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jerome T
Standish, MI8 contributions
Sep 2020
The woman that we hired as a guide was very knowledgable in Turkish, as well as the city's history. She spoke clear, fluent English and was very descriptive in the points that she made. She really pointed out well, the importance of what she was showing us. I would hire her again. Dreadfully, I can not remember her name. I think it was Karrie.
Written October 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
EtienneT
New York City, NY3 contributions
Apr 2023
Istanbul's historic areas are truly a marvel to behold. Walking through the ancient streets, it's easy to feel transported back in time to when the city was the center of the world. The architecture and atmosphere of these neighborhoods are breathtaking, and every corner seems to hold a new surprise or hidden gem. Whether you're a history buff or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of old-world charm, exploring Istanbul's historic areas is an experience not to be missed. I highly recommend taking a guided tour to truly appreciate all the stories and secrets these neighborhoods have to offer.
Written May 30, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ivanna I
23 contributions
Jan 2021
Istanbul is a great city, worth visiting every season and even during the Covid period, when the hotel prices are so low and no crowds in the streets.. Some advices. There are no lines anymore to Haja Sofia or Blue Mosque. Blue mosque is still under renovation and currently you will not see its inner beauty. Haja Sofia is no longer the museum, as it is an acting mosque the mosaics are covered by the cloth (depiction of faces is prohibitied by Coran), the second floor is closed - but it is still worth visiting to feel the space, which looks very beautifull with the lamps. During the weekends the museums and mosques are open for visitors, but the stores are mainly closed. Süleymaniye mosques in open on saturday, but the
CamiiThe hours of operation in some sightseeing places are one hour shorter. The Basilica (water storage) is closed currently because of covid.
CamiiThe hours of operation in some sightseeing places are one hour shorter. The Basilica (water storage) is closed currently because of covid.
Written February 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BrakiWorldTraveler
Belgrade, Serbia17,664 contributions
Sep 2020
Istanbul is the only city in entire world spreading on two continents which makes it quite unique. Besides, it's a very old city and blooming with history.
It's historic areas are spread on the European side, which is again divided in two by the Golden Horn.
The most historic part is south of the Golden Horn - the Sultanahmet neighborhood, where's the iconic Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi palace, ancient Hippodrome and Egyptian obelisk. Next door is Eminonu with the outstanding Suleyman Mosque and Kapali carsii market.
North of the Golden Horn rises the historic Galata tower and Pera district.
Best of all, all the above is easy to explore on foot being in walking distance.
It's historic areas are spread on the European side, which is again divided in two by the Golden Horn.
The most historic part is south of the Golden Horn - the Sultanahmet neighborhood, where's the iconic Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi palace, ancient Hippodrome and Egyptian obelisk. Next door is Eminonu with the outstanding Suleyman Mosque and Kapali carsii market.
North of the Golden Horn rises the historic Galata tower and Pera district.
Best of all, all the above is easy to explore on foot being in walking distance.
Written September 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Olga L
Kansas City, MO20 contributions
May 2022 • Friends
Great area to live around, you are a walkway from many museums, from tram 1 line, small groceries and of course restaurants. Although I would advise to walk 10-15 min away from the square and prices in restaurants will be more reasonable.
It is quiet at night and active during the day. There is a nice bazaar right next to it.
It is quiet at night and active during the day. There is a nice bazaar right next to it.
Written June 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Trail45788035206
3 contributions
Oct 2022
We had taken 1 day Guided trip wherein we were taken to Hippodrome, Haghia Spohia, Blue Mosque, Top Kapi Palace and some Alternate Bazar to Grand Bazar (as it was closed on Sunday). All places were good and enjoyable, However the guide gave us limited time to move around so we revisited the places on our own again post our extended stay at Turkey
Haghia Sophia had long long que on Sunday but on our revisit on Monday it was shorter que and we could revisit in time, you should be in que by 3 pm to be in time before they close by 4 or 5 pm. TopKapi has been places of visit and need to provide enough time to see all places
Haghia Sophia had long long que on Sunday but on our revisit on Monday it was shorter que and we could revisit in time, you should be in que by 3 pm to be in time before they close by 4 or 5 pm. TopKapi has been places of visit and need to provide enough time to see all places
Written November 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
County-Hunter
Tacoma, WA3,176 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
The chance to see the historic sites of this amazing city!
And the best part is that most of the sites, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome, Basilica Cistern are located all right next to each other meaning you don't have to walk all over the city to see them. It is possible to see them all in a day, but I would recommend taking your time and taking another day. You'll be glad you did.
And the best part is that most of the sites, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome, Basilica Cistern are located all right next to each other meaning you don't have to walk all over the city to see them. It is possible to see them all in a day, but I would recommend taking your time and taking another day. You'll be glad you did.
Written April 15, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mehmet E
Istanbul, Türkiye5 contributions
Jan 2020
I set my mind on how to tell the unique beauties while visiting the historical peninsula. But the fiction has changed! Because there are so many cultural treasures that if I tell the Galata Tower, the Antuan Church will be taken, if I tell Istiklal Street Nevizade will reproach, Galata Mevlevihanesi, historic Pera Hotel and Galatasaray High School that door.
You have no choice but to see these beauties. Come, see and experience.
In addition, the restaurants located on Istiklal Street will provide you with unforgettable taste cruises.
But you must walk. It is really easy to get down from the sidewalk next to the High Sidewalk and Galata Tower.
But if you want, you can make history journey with Tunel metro which is one of the first subway of history.
Galata Bridge is waiting for you below. If you want to watch the fishermen on this bridge, take a moment to say.
When you look over the bridge, Yeni Cami is looking at you in all its glory.
Pigeons are waiting for you to feed them.
And ... Spice Bazaar
Here is the atmosphere where you will go to another place with spice fragrances.
The rest is also up to you. It doesn't seem to end with narration.
Come Istanbul and history are calling you
You have no choice but to see these beauties. Come, see and experience.
In addition, the restaurants located on Istiklal Street will provide you with unforgettable taste cruises.
But you must walk. It is really easy to get down from the sidewalk next to the High Sidewalk and Galata Tower.
But if you want, you can make history journey with Tunel metro which is one of the first subway of history.
Galata Bridge is waiting for you below. If you want to watch the fishermen on this bridge, take a moment to say.
When you look over the bridge, Yeni Cami is looking at you in all its glory.
Pigeons are waiting for you to feed them.
And ... Spice Bazaar
Here is the atmosphere where you will go to another place with spice fragrances.
The rest is also up to you. It doesn't seem to end with narration.
Come Istanbul and history are calling you
Written January 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Melissa
Cape Town, South Africa
What clothing do I pack for holiday to Istanbul end December? I know it’s cold, but does it snow? I’m coming from South Africa and it doesn’t snow here , so I’m not sure how cold winter will be there
RG B
Sacramento, CA135 contributions
snow in Istanbul is very, very rare.
DadoTorino
Carignano, Italy1 contribution
Salve a tutti. Sto cercando una guida a Instambul periodo 26-29 dicembre 2019. Grazie in anticipo
Daniele B
Rome, Italy181 contributions
ciao scoprireistanbul. io per organizzare il mio viaggio ad istanbul ho consultato questo sito
che organizza anche tour della città in italiano
benyamin rezaei
3 contributions
Is it great place!?
Khaled M Riad S
Istanbul, Türkiye18 contributions
Yes indeed
O M E R
Greater London, UK1,697 contributions
How can i get to the historic center of Istanbul from city's Sabiha Gokcen airport (SAW).
Many thanks
Petra V
12 contributions
Hi, with public transport for sure. When u get there, quickly register for Uber. The Uber transport is much cheaper than normal taxis. I have tried both and every time the Uber was quicker to pick me and cheaper. They even have cellphone chargers inside their cars. They are very friendly and most of them speak English. It took us about 40min from the airport to
The Hilton Bumonti. So Sultanhamed should be about 30 minutes or so. While in Istanbul, you can also use the train tubes for the experience. That is super cheap. Enjoy! You have to visit Miniaturk!!! It gives you some perspective so when you visit the actual sites it is better.
alfia
Dubai, United Arab Emirates2 contributions
hi, planning to visit Istanbul on 5th of April, looking for a public transport way to visit most of Istanbul's tourist attractions. please guide.
HCornell
Harrogate, UK192 contributions
Once in the square for the Hagia Sophia ( expect queues so book online) the Blue Mosque is close and the basilica system, as is the oldest and most traditional place to eat Kofta Just ask. Long queue but quickly moves as quick turnover Go to the Topkapi palace and a must- the Grand Bazzar and haggle Hope this helps
Sy planning mengunjungi turki Bln April dgn own arrangement, mohon advise kemana saja area wisata yg dpt sy kunjungi?
Rivka G
Tel Aviv District, Israel166 contributions
It depends on how long you plan to stay. If you come for 1 week only - you should better visit only Istanbul, as it has so many interesting sites!
SunnyRita
Berkshire, UK97 contributions
If you only had one day and one night in Istanbul what would you recommend to see? Thank you
Bruno M
Little Rock, AR135 contributions
I would recommend you to get a guide once w/ the guides you can skip the lines.
The highlights are Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Cisterns and the Hippodrome ( Those four are all at the same area, as the Blue Mosque) After it you can walk to the Grand Bazar. On the way, you can stop to eat in the Antakya restaurant. After walking the Grand Bazar go to see the Suleiman Mosque, it's fully restored and "less fashionable" than the Blue Mosque (that it's crowdy and you can't see nothing because of the restoration works). Start early in the morning (in Turkey it means 9:00) you will be able to do all this in one day. The place you will spend more time visiting is the Topkapi Palace. If you have time, you can get a cruise in the Bosphorus, but with one day I don't believe you will be able to do it.
The places you will miss are Dolmabahce Palace, Cora Church, and the Constantinople walls. At night go see the Golden Horn and Galata Tower, and go eat a Baklava in the Karakoy Gulluoglu
Mumhane Cad. No:171 Karakoy it's "near" to Galata tower and they say it's the best Baklava from Istambul.
Irfan C
Rockport, ME2 contributions
Hi
We are stopping for 2 day , how do you get there and the time it takes.
Thanks
Gary P
Cairns, Australia233 contributions
Depends on where you are staying, you could spend at least a day in Sultanahmet, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Place, Cisterns, Aye Sofia, Archaeological National Museum.
There are some great places to eat, Green Corner and on the way to the Museum there is a great pastry Turkish delight shop, good coffee.
Net day I suggest the Grand Bazaar and then spice markets in the morning, have a fish sandwich under the bridge opposite the spice market then walk across the Galata Bridge and visit the tower.
All the above is possible by tram, just get a map or download one very easy, all on the same track.
Have fun, suggest trying a testy kebab, fined a nice rooftop place for dinner watch the sun go down.
Scott Brenkert
Phoenix, AZ
A friend recommended that I partake of an authentic Turkish bath whilst in Istanbul. How do I find information about Turkish baths?
annabellc
London, UK145 contributions
I’m so sorry I didn’t reply sooner. I’ve only just seen your question. If you want a genuine Turkish bath when in Turkey ask your hotel where the best local hammam is? I’ve had a few and they are just wonderful. Unfortunately I’ve also had a hammam in Gran Canaria and it most certainly wasn’t a proper Turkish one.
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Claim your listingHistoric Areas of Istanbul - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Historic Areas of Istanbul
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Historic Areas of Istanbul:
- Historic Areas of Istanbul (From $100.08)
- Best of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour (From $150.00)
- Taste of Two Continents: Istanbul Food Tour (From $125.00)
- 2 Day Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul with Optional Balloon ride (From $555.99)
- Highlights & Hidden Gems With Locals: Best of Istanbul Private Tour (From $98.97)
- Hotels near Historic Areas of Istanbul:
- (0.07 mi) Hotel St. Sophia
- (0.09 mi) Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton
- (0.08 mi) Ottoman Hotel Imperial
- (0.13 mi) The And Hotel
- (0.13 mi) Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet
- Restaurants near Historic Areas of Istanbul:
- (0.02 mi) K Maras Ottoman Ice Cream
- (0.08 mi) Oldharbour Kumkapı Fish & More
- (0.08 mi) Matbah Ottoman Palace Cuisine
- (0.12 mi) Nars Brasserie
- (0.10 mi) The Sarnıç Fine Dining Restaurant
Historic Areas of Istanbul Information
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