Sultanahmet Square & Surroundings: Istanbul’s Historic Heart

One of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul, the Blue Mosque is known for its six minarets, cascading domes, and over 20,000 Iznik tiles that give it its iconic blue interior. Built in 1616, it remains an active mosque and a stunning example of Ottoman architecture.

📍 Location: Find details on the location here

⏰ Opening Hours: Open daily, closed during prayer times. Read more: Visitor Information

🎟 Entrance: Free

Known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," Hagia Sophia is a masterpiece blending Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. Built in 537 AD as a cathedral, it later became an imperial mosque and remains a symbol of Istanbul’s diverse heritage. Inside, massive domes, Christian mosaics, and Islamic calligraphy coexist in breathtaking harmony.

📍 Location: Right across from the Blue Mosque [See on a map]

⏰ Opening Hours: Open daily, closed during prayer times. More details here.

🎟 Entrance Fee: Paid entry for visitors - tickets available here. Free entry for worshipers

For nearly 400 years, Topkapi Palace was the heart of the Ottoman Empire, serving as the sultan’s residence and power center. Its lavish courtyards, imperial chambers, and sacred relics make it one of Istanbul’s top attractions. Don’t miss the Harem, where the sultan’s family lived in seclusion and luxury, surrounded by ornate tilework and hidden passageways.

📍 Location: 5-minute walk from Sultanahmet Square [See on a map]

⏰ Opening Hours: Open daily except Tuesdays. →  More information here.

🎟 Entrance Fee: Paid entry, with separate admission required for the Harem section. Tickets are available here

This exceptional underground reservoir, built by the Byzantines in the 6th century, is an atmospheric marvel with medieval columns, dim lighting, and reflections on the water. The famous Medusa Heads, hidden at its base, add to the mystical ambiance of this ancient structure.

📍 Location: Near Hagia Sophia [See on a map]

⏰ Opening Hours: Open daily. →  Find more details here.

🎟 Entrance Fee: Paid entry; buying tickets online is recommended. Buy your Tickets here

Once a grand Roman chariot-racing arena, today the Hippodrome Square is home to historic monuments like:

- Obelisk of Theodosius – An ancient Egyptian obelisk brought to Constantinople.

- Serpentine Column – A relic from the Temple of Apollo at Delphi.

- Walled Obelisk – A Byzantine-built stone monument.

📍 Location: Next to the Blue Mosque [See on a map]

🎟 Entrance Fee: Free

Housed in the Ibrahim Pasha Palace, this museum features an impressive collection of Ottoman-era artifacts, including Islamic calligraphy, ceramics, carpets, and manuscripts. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Turkish artistic heritage.

📍 Location: Near the Hippodrome [See on a map]

⏰ Opening Hours: Open daily

🎟 Entrance Fee: Paid entry. Buy your Tickets here

One of Istanbul’s oldest churches, Hagia Irene predates Hagia Sophia and is unique for never being converted into a mosque. With its impressive domed interior and historical significance, it is now a museum and concert venue, offering a glimpse into Byzantine-era architecture.

📍 Location: Inside the outer courtyard of Topkapi Palace [See on a map]

🎟 Entrance Fee: Paid (Included in Topkapi Palace ticket)

A 1,600-year-old underground water reservoir, the Theodosius Cistern is one of Istanbul’s best-preserved Byzantine cisterns. It features a sensational light and sound show that brings its ancient past to life. Unlike the Basilica Cistern, this hidden gem offers a quieter and more immersive experience, bringing history to life through modern technology.

📍 Location: Piyer Loti Cd. No:2/1, Fatih [See on a map]

🎟 Entrance Fee: Paid. Buy your tickets here.

This modern museum brings the history of Hagia Sophia to life through digital projections, artifacts, and interactive displays. Visitors can explore the rich Christian and Islamic heritage of this iconic structure in a dynamic and engaging way.

📍 Location: Across from Hagia Sophia [See on a map]

🎟 Entrance Fee: Paid. Find tickets here.

A small yet charming bazaar behind the Blue Mosque, offering handmade carpets, ceramics, and Turkish souvenirs. It’s a quieter alternative to the Grand Bazaar, perfect for a relaxed shopping experience.

📍 Location: Behind the Blue Mosque [See on a map]

⏰ Opening Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 7 PM

🎟 Entrance Fee: Free