- Türkiye
- Things to do in Istanbul
- Sultanahmet Square
Sultanahmet Square
Sultanahmet Square, also known as the Hippodrome, is the historic center of Istanbul and a must-visit location for anyone interested in the city’s rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Basilica Cistern, the square is a bustling area that offers visitors a glimpse into Istanbul’s past. Once the site of chariot races in the Byzantine era, Sultanahmet Square now serves as a vibrant hub for tourists and locals alike.
Sultanahmet Square Tours & Excursions
Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbuls MustSee: Hagia Sophia Blue Mosque Grand Bazaar Tour
€35.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Hagia Sophia Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar Tour
€34.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Best of the City Private FullDay Walking Tour
€30
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Explore Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern
€25.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul Heritage Tour: Explore the Heart of the Old City
€45.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise & Spice Bazaar – A Journey Through Time
€55.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul Private Guided Tour With Historical Riches
€19
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Explore the Highlights of Istanbul - A Journey Through Time
€340.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Full-Day City Highlights Tour with Lunch
€60.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Best City Highlights Guided Tour with Turkish Lunch
€80.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Timeless Treasures Walking Tour
€85.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Explore Best of the Istanbul City
€150.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Tour of Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque By Night
€150.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Get Your Guide and Explore the Best of the City
€7
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Private City Highlights Guided Tour
€17
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Discover Istanbuls Wonders: Private Guided Tour 1 or 2 Days
€21
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul Discovery: 1, 2, or 3-Day Private Guided Experience
€16
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Discover Istanbul’s Blue Mosque & Topkapi Palace: A Guided Historical
€67.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul Walking Tour: Secrets of the City and Iconic Landmarks
€66.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul's Treasures: Topkapi Palace and Harem Experience
€32.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Segway Tour of the City
€51.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul Old Town Photoshooting
€100.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul City Tour with Hotel Transfer and Lunch
€45.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Full Day Tour
€75.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Half Day Classic Istanbul Guided Tour
€50.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Private Tour of Istanbul with Red Carpet Treatment
€250.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Bespoke Tour with Guide and SkiptheLine Entries
Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace Tour
€35
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Half Day Old City Tour by Art Historian
€30.00
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Hagia Sophia Topkapi and Basilica Cistern Tour
€25.00
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The Basics
Sultanahmet Square is a large open space that serves as the focal point of the Old City. It is surrounded by significant historical structures such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the German Fountain, and the Obelisk of Theodosius. The square also features well-maintained gardens and benches where visitors can relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Sultanahmet Square is not only an important historical site but also a lively area with street vendors, local cafes, and a variety of shops selling traditional souvenirs. It’s a great starting point for exploring Istanbul’s Old City.
Istanbuls MustSee: Hagia Sophia Blue Mosque Grand Bazaar Tour
Istanbul - Türkiye
Embark on a captivating journey through Istanbul’s historic heart. Visit the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar, immersing yourself in rich history, culture, and stunning architecture, all guided by an expert with seamless transfers.
€35.00
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Istanbul: Hagia Sophia Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar Tour
Istanbul - Türkiye
Discover magical city of Istanbul on this guided tour in an air-conditioned vehicle. Visit the world-famous Hagia Sophia Museum, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar.
€34.00
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Istanbul: Best of the City Private FullDay Walking Tour
Istanbul - Türkiye
Enjoy a royal welcome to Istanbul with a full-day private guided tour. Get whisked to the front of the queue at the city’s most popular attractions with your guide’s priority entrance pass.
€30
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Things to Know Before You Go
Sultanahmet Square can get crowded, especially during the peak tourist seasons. It’s advisable to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a more relaxed experience. As the square is home to important religious sites like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, it’s essential to dress modestly when visiting these places. Don’t forget to check the opening hours of these attractions, as they may close for prayer times or special events. The square is also a prime location for street performers, adding to its lively charm.
How to Get There
Sultanahmet Square is easily accessible by public transport. If you're staying in the city center, you can take the T1 tram line and get off at the Sultanahmet stop. The tram station is right next to the square, making it convenient for visitors. Alternatively, if you're coming from Taksim, you can take the funicular from Taksim Square to Kabataş, then transfer to the tram. You can also take a taxi or walk from nearby areas like the Grand Bazaar or the Bosphorus waterfront, both of which are just a short distance away.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Sultanahmet Square is early in the morning or later in the evening when the crowds are smaller, and the area feels more peaceful. Early mornings offer a quieter atmosphere, perfect for taking in the stunning architecture and exploring the nearby attractions without the hustle and bustle. If you prefer to experience the square with more energy, visiting in the late afternoon or evening allows you to see the landmarks lit up beautifully. Be mindful that weekends and holidays tend to be busier.
Day Trips from Istanbul
Sultanahmet Square is an excellent starting point for a day of sightseeing in Istanbul. After exploring the square and its famous landmarks, you can visit the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, and the Blue Mosque, known for its striking blue tiles and massive dome. The nearby Basilica Cistern offers a unique experience with its ancient underground columns. If you have time, you can wander through the nearby Grand Bazaar for a vibrant shopping experience or take a short walk to Topkapi Palace, once home to Ottoman sultans.
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