Historic Areas of Istanbul
Of greatest importance is arguably the Archaeological Park, an area known to most visitors as Sultanahmet. If possible, allow two days to explore everything this area has to offer. On day one, start with the 6th century Hagia Sophia, followed by the Blue Mosque and the ancient Hippodrome of Constantine. Then, spend the second day at the former residence of the Ottoman sultans, Topkapi Palace, and if time allows, check out the underground Basilica Cistern as well.
Just west of Sultanahmet, the Suleymaniye Quarter features the 4th century aqueduct of Valens and the Suleymaniye and Sehzade Mosques, both commissioned by Suleyman the Magnificent and designed by the famous imperial architect Sinan. These are some of the best examples of Ottoman architecture in the entire city.
Adjacent to the Suleymaniye Quarter, the Zeyrek Quarter’s most notable highlight is former Church of the Pantocrator. Dating back to the 12th century, it once was part of a Byzantine sanctuary consisting of two churches, a chapel and a monastery. Now a mosque known as the Molla Zeyrek Mosque, it has fallen into an unfortunate state of disrepair and may not currently be open to the public.
Further out, the zone of the ramparts is known for the land walls that were built on the orders of Emperor Theodosius II beginning in the year 413. Walking uphill from Ayvansaray along Derviszade Sokak and Sishane Caddesi, you can follow what is left of the walls. In this area, you’ll also find the magnificently mosaicked Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora, now the Kariye Museum.
Practical Information
To reach the zone of the ramparts, take a Golden Horn ferry from Eminonu to Ayvansaray and head uphill as described above.
Tours & Tickets
7-Day Turkey Tour from Kusadasi: Istanbul, Pamukkale, Ankara, Cappadocia and Ephesus
See Turkey’s historical and cultural highlights on this incredible 7-day tour from Kusadasi to Istanbul. With a Kusadasi Airport arrival transfer and an either ... Read more
Location:
Kusadasi, Turkey
Duration: 7 days (approx.)
Istanbul Small-Group Walking Tour: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Grand Bazaar
See all the top Istanbul attractions in one day on this small-group walking tour, led by an expert local guide. Focusing on the Sultanahmet area of this ... Read more
Location:
Istanbul, Turkey
Duration: 8 hours (approx.)
Private Tour: Istanbul's Jewish Heritage
Discover Istanbul's Jewish culture on this private half-day tour. Visit the Galata Tower, one of the most prominent landmarks in the city on the European ... Read more
Location:
Istanbul, Turkey
Duration: 4 hours (approx.)
