About Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet is known as the “old city” for good reason. When building the subway station in 2004, workers uncovered archaeological artifacts from about 8,000 years ago, making the city one of the oldest in the world. And because of this, the area is one of the most historic places in Turkey with many ancient ruins, mosques, tombs, and palaces. You’ll also find many of the country’s museums and monuments in Sultanahmet tucked in between the more modern eateries, shops, and pubs.
The architecture alone in this community makes it the perfect place for selfies and photos to share on your favorite social media sites. Because this is a tourist attraction, it does get crowded during certain times of the year so plan accordingly. However, with so much to see and do, you should not have any trouble getting in and out of the places you want to visit.
Surrounded by water on three sides, including the Golden Horn, which is a major waterway in Istanbul, there is always a beautiful sunset to be seen in the evening. When paired with the beauty of the old walls and monuments, this is probably the most attractive place in the country. And it does not hurt that they have a plethora of souvenir shops, restaurants, bars, and malls to entertain you. There are plenty of parks to enjoy here as well with lush greenery and vibrant flowers.
Fun Fact: The Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque) was named after Sultan Ahmet, who built a place of worship to vie with the Hagia Sophia.
Things to do at Sultanahmet
While you are in Sultanahmet, there are so many things to see and do, you may have a difficult time figuring out what to do first. It’s best to have your itinerary planned before going. Here are some of our suggestions.
- Visit the Blue Mosque to see why they call it the Blue Mosque
- See the ancient remnants of the hippodrome in Sultanahmet Square
- Take a walk through the 15th century Topkapi Palace Museum
- Check out the artifacts at the Istanbul Archaeological Museums
- Get some pictures of the fountains in Kadirga Park
- Marvel at the ruins of the 5th-century palace with stunning gardens and archways
- Go underground to see the Basilica Cistern with over 330 marble columns
- Get a massage and steam bath at one of the Turkish baths in the area
- Do some shopping at the Grand Bazaar
Transit Options Near Sultanahmet
- Marmaray cross-city line train
- Bus 61B and 96T
- Tram
- Taxicab
Luggage Storage Near Sultanahmet
Having your bags with you can be more than just inconvenient when visiting Sultanahmet, it can make it impossible for you to get into some places that don’t allow luggage. Leave your bags with one of our local Bounce locations where our affiliates will keep your things safe and secure while you enjoy the city. Download our app and find the nearest location, book your bags, and drop them off on your way to have fun.
Luggage Storage Options Near Sultanahmet
Whether you have one suitcase or a few pieces, leaving your belongings with one of our Bounce partners is the best option. You cannot have much fun when you have to watch over your things, and you are not allowed to bring them into places like museums and certain restaurants. We will keep your bags safe for you for as long as you need.
Luggage Storage Near the Gulhane Park
On Kennedy Street, about five minutes from Sultanahmet, Gulhane Park has many things to enjoy. What used to be a hunting ground for the rich and royal is now a park full of tulips, roses, and other flowers. History is also important here with many memorials and buildings like the Column of the Goths, Royal Stables, and the Sublime Porte. The southern entrance boasts several museums, including the Museum of History, Science, & Technology, the Ahmet Hamdi Tanpinar Literature Museum, and the Tombs Museum. Although separated from the Topkapi Palace Museum by a wall, you can still visit the museum and grounds where they have an elephant garden, fig garden, and several pavilions and kiosks. Eat at one of the concessionaires while enjoying the scenery of the Sea of Marmara and Bosporus Strait. Drop your luggage with Bounce before heading into the park because you cannot bring them to the museums.
Luggage Storage Near Panorama 1453 History Museum
Panorama 1453 History Museum is the first full panoramic museum in the world, built in 2009. It is one of the most popular attractions in the city. Just through the entrance, you will find the first section with displays along the way to the panoramic picture. The painting is a 360-degree illusionary artwork of the battlefield, which gives visitors the impression of being in the middle of the fight. There are even sound effects to add to the experience. Try a helicopter simulation that takes you on a tour of the country or the City of Istanbul. Be amazed by 3D illustrations as well as snow, rain, and wind to make you feel like you are really there. Be sure to leave your bags with one of our Bounce partners since they aren’t allowed here.
Luggage Storage Near Sea Life Center Aquarium
Located on Bayrampaşa just 23 minutes from Sultanahmet, Sea Life Center Aquarium has over 15,000 sea creatures. As the fifth largest aquarium in the world, you shouldn’t be surprised at the number of beautiful aquariums full of wonder. Don’t miss the 15 species of sharks in the shark tank like the bowmouth, guitar, hammerheads, and nurse sharks. There are many other tanks in the center to enjoy as well. The Ocean Tunnel is a must-see as you are surrounded by majestic creatures on all sides as well as from above. The Sea Bed exhibit has over a thousand species from tropicals to jellies. And if you like jellyfish, check out the Jellies exhibit with over a thousand jellies. The stingrays at Stingray Bay are pretty awesome to watch too. Don’t forget to grab your camera out of your bag before leaving it at one of our Bounce locations.