- Türkiye
- Things to do in Istanbul
- Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani)
Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani)
The Hippodrome of Constantinople, now known as Sultanahmet Meydanı, is a must-visit for travelers exploring Istanbul’s historic heart. Once a grand arena for chariot races during the Byzantine era, this open square serves as a living museum of Istanbul’s rich history. Featuring iconic monuments like the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column, and the Walled Obelisk, the site tells stories of emperors, contests, and centuries of cultural exchange. It’s a serene spot nestled in the bustling Sultanahmet neighborhood, ideal for soaking in the city's layered history.
Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani) Tours & Excursions
Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul Heritage Tour: Explore the Heart of the Old City
€45
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Turkey in 8 Days: From Istanbul to Ephesus Pamukkale
€1500
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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
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Best of Turkey in 10 Days: Istanbul Cappadocia Pamukkale & More
€2230
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Full-Day City Highlights Tour with Lunch
€60
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Full Day Tour
€75
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul’s Highlights: A Full-Day Guided Tour
€52
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Best City Highlights Guided Tour with Turkish Lunch
€80
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbuls MustSee: Hagia Sophia Blue Mosque Grand Bazaar Tour
€35
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Timeless Treasures Walking Tour
€85
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Half Day Classic Istanbul Guided Tour
€50
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Best of the City Private FullDay Walking Tour
€30
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Explore Best of the Istanbul City
€150
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Tour of Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque By Night
€150
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Discover the Exclusive Wonders of Istanbul With Lunch
€65
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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
starts from
Istanbul - Türkiye
Discover Istanbuls Wonders: Private Guided Tour 1 or 2 Days
€21
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Best of Istanbul: Private Guided Istanbul Tour
€14
starts from
Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul Discovery: 1, 2, or 3-Day Private Guided Experience
€16
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Explore the Heart of History with Hagia Sophia Entry
€150
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul’s Highlights: Private Layover Adventure
€90
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul Walking Tour: Secrets of the City and Iconic Landmarks
€66
starts from
Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul's Gems: Blue Mosque Basilica Cistern and Grand Bazaar Tour
€48
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Segway Tour of the City
€51
starts from
Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul City Tour with Hotel Transfer and Lunch
€45
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Patterns of Turkey: 13-Day Tour
€4800
starts from
Istanbul - Türkiye
From Istanbul: Cappadocia Konya and Ephesus Multi-day Tour
€2250
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Hidden Gems of Istanbul: 4-Day Journey
€600
starts from
Istanbul - Türkiye
From Istanbul: Ephesus, Pamukkale & Cappadocia 8-Day Tour
€1450
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace Tour
€35
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Cappadocia, Pamukkale 8-Day 7-Night Tour From Istanbul
€1,000
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Istanbul - Türkiye
Half Day Old City Tour by Art Historian
€30
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The Basics
Located in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district, the Hippodrome is within walking distance of the city’s most famous attractions, such as the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Entrance to the square is free, making it a budget-friendly destination for history enthusiasts. The area is pedestrian-friendly and surrounded by charming cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy Turkish tea or coffee after your visit. While much of the original structure is gone, the remaining monuments are well-preserved and offer a glimpse into the city’s Byzantine and Ottoman past.
Istanbul Heritage Tour: Explore the Heart of the Old City
Istanbul - Türkiye
Discover Istanbul's iconic landmarks, from the grandeur of Hagia Sophia to the vibrant Grand Bazaar, on this expertly guided tour combining history, culture, and unforgettable sights!
€45
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Turkey in 8 Days: From Istanbul to Ephesus Pamukkale
Istanbul - Türkiye
Explore the heart of Turkey in 8 exciting days. Visit iconic landmarks, immerse yourself in history, enjoy natural wonders like Pamukkale’s thermal pools, and marvel at Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes.
€1500
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Istanbul Private Guided Tour With Historical Riches
Istanbul - Türkiye
Discover the rich history of Istanbul. Experience the city's Byzantine and Ottoman heritage with expert insights and create unforgettable memories.
€19
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Things to Know Before You Go
Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely combine your visit to the Hippodrome with nearby landmarks. The square is mostly outdoors, so pack sunscreen in summer or an umbrella in winter. Information boards provide historical context, but hiring a guide or joining a walking tour can make the experience more engaging. The square can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, so plan accordingly.
How to Get There
Reaching the Hippodrome is easy thanks to Istanbul’s excellent public transport. The T1 tram line stops at Sultanahmet Station, just a short walk from the square. If you’re staying nearby, it’s accessible by foot. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also convenient, but traffic in this area can be heavy, so allow extra travel time.
When to Get There
The Hippodrome is open 24/7, but daytime visits are recommended for better visibility and safety. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid the peak crowds and enjoy the square in softer light, perfect for photography. Visiting in spring or autumn offers pleasant weather, making your exploration more comfortable.
Day Trips from Istanbul
A visit to the Hippodrome pairs perfectly with a full day of exploring Sultanahmet. Start with Hagia Sophia, just steps away, and continue to the Blue Mosque. Wander through the nearby Basilica Cistern and end your day at the Topkapi Palace. For a more leisurely experience, enjoy a Turkish breakfast at a local cafe before diving into the area’s history. Joining a guided tour is a great way to uncover hidden stories of the Hippodrome and its surroundings.
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