Sultanahmet Travel Guide
Istanbul
Visit Sultanahmet
Popular places to visit
Blue Mosque
The nickname of this 17th-century structure refers to the brilliant color of its tiled interior.
Hagia Sophia
Once a church, then a Byzantine cathedral, later a mosque and now a monument, this iconic building is a national treasure.
Sultanahmet Square
You can find out about the history of Istanbul with a stop at Sultanahmet Square. Add the area's shops or stunning cathedral to your travel plans.
Basilica Cistern
The “Sunken Palace” is one of the most striking remnants of Byzantine Constantinople and is the largest of hundreds of ancient underground reservoirs in Istanbul.
Turkish and Islamic Art Museum
You can browse the exhibits at Turkish and Islamic Art Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your holiday in Istanbul. Experience the area's acclaimed art galleries and fascinating museums.
Column of Constantine
You can find out about the history of Istanbul with a trip to Column of Constantine. Visit the area's stunning cathedral or amble around its seaside.
Things to do
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket and Audio Guide
Short Bosphorus Cruise Tour With Hotel Pickup And Audio Guide
Acemoglu Historical Turkish Bath with Private Options
Istanbul: Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Ticket & Museum Option
Top hotels in Sultanahmet
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
The location was excellent, with all the major attractions and lots of good restaurants within a few minutes walk. The breakfast provided a good selection of items to start the day off. All the staff we came across were helpful and friendly.
Reviewed on 14 Apr 2026
Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul
Fer Hotel
So happy with our stay at Fer. The staff were wonderful from the start and our room was all set up for us with an extra bed as requested. Breakfast was delicious and you cannot bet the location as its such a central hotel.
Reviewed on 14 Apr 2026
Carina Gold Hotel and Restaurant
Excellent stay!
Reviewed on 12 Apr 2026
Seven Hills Hotel - Special Class
Location and rooftop terrace view are the biggest selling points for this hotel. Their Turkish breakfast is incredible (but pricey), and their dinner menu is very pricey, but the views from the terrace cannot be beat and guests get full access for great photos of both Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. ...
Reviewed on 14 Apr 2026
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
Clean comfortable rooms very friendly staff lovely spa .. breakfast service decent Eat out elsewhere in the evening
Reviewed on 15 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Sultanahmet
Sirkeci
Travellers choose Sirkeci for its ample dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Sirkeci Station or Eminonu Station and check out top sights like Grand Bazaar.
Karaköy
Spend some time visiting places like Galata Tower while getting to know Karaköy, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Karakoy Station or Karakoy Tünel Station to see more of the area.
Galata
Travellers choose Galata for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Sishane-Zemin Metro Station or Karakoy Tünel Station and check out top sights like Galata Tower.
Istanbul City Center
Known for its charming cafes and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Istanbul City Center. Check out top attractions like Blue Mosque and Taksim Square, and jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Aksaray Tram Station to see more of the city.
Beyoğlu
Enjoy the popular shops in Beyoğlu. Taksim Square is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Sishane-Zemin Metro Station or Tophane Station to see more of Istanbul.
Fatih
Enjoy the popular shops in Fatih. Blue Mosque is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Yusufpasa Station to see more of Istanbul.
