The source of the mystical atmosphere that mesmerises you the moment you set foot in Istanbul is undoubtedly the Historical Peninsula. This unique geography, which has been home to different civilisations for centuries, is almost an open-air museum with its historical buildings whispering a different story in every corner, magnificent monuments, bustling bazaars and breathtaking views.
Majestic Buildings in the Footsteps of History:
This region, which adorns the silhouette of the Historical Peninsula and hosts some of the most important historical monuments of the world, offers a time tunnel to its visitors. You can start your trip with Hagia Sophia, which dazzles with its splendour. This magnificent building, which once served as a church, mosque and museum, fascinates with its architecture and historical importance. The Blue Mosque (Blue Mosque), located just opposite, has a peaceful beauty with its six minarets and its interior decorated with Iznik tiles.
Sultanahmet Square, which was the hippodrome area of the Roman Empire, still bears the traces of the past with its standing stones and monuments. The Basilica Cistern, located right next to the square, fascinates its visitors with its underground column forest and mystical atmosphere. Topkapı Palace, the residence of Byzantine Emperors, sheds light on the glorious days of the Ottoman Empire with its museums, courtyards and Harem section.
The Magical World of Bazaars:
The Historic Peninsula is famous not only for its historical buildings but also for its lively and colourful bazaars. The Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered bazaars in the world, is a shopping paradise with its labyrinthine streets, thousands of shops and the variety it offers. Here you can find everything you are looking for from handicrafts to jewellery, spices to textiles.
Egyptian Bazaar (Spice Bazaar), another historical bazaar, appeals to your senses with its fragrant spices, Turkish delights, nuts and herbal products. Getting lost among the authentic atmosphere and colourful stalls of the bazaar offers an unforgettable experience.
Flavour Stops and Views:
When you get hungry while travelling in the Historical Peninsula, delicious options await you. You can taste traditional Turkish cuisine in historical restaurants, try local delicacies in shabby restaurants or sip your coffee against the Golden Horn view in stylish cafes. You can find many different flavour stops especially around Sultanahmet and Eminönü.
In the evening, you can take a walk in Gülhane Park, cross the Galata Bridge and watch the unique silhouette of the Historical Peninsula or witness a romantic sunset on the shore of the Golden Horn.
Getting to the Historical Peninsula:
Transport to the Historical Peninsula is quite easy and varied.
– Tram: The tram line in front of the campus offers direct access to important points such as Eminönü and Sirkeci.
Bus: You can reach the Historical Peninsula by buses passing in front of the campus.
Do not forget that you can reach the historical peninsula with a 10-minute walk.
Tips:
– We recommend that you spend at least one full day to fully explore the Historical Peninsula.
– Since it will be a walking-heavy trip, choose comfortable shoes.
– If you plan to visit museums and archaeological sites, you can save on entrance fees by purchasing a MuseumCard.
– Do not forget to take water and a hat with you in hot weather.
– You can learn more about the culture and history of the neighbourhood by chatting with the locals.
The Historical Peninsula, the heart of Istanbul, is a magical geography that carries the splendour of the past to the present day and every corner is full of surprises. Be sure to visit the Historic Peninsula to breathe in this unique atmosphere, see the historical buildings up close and experience the vibrancy of the bazaars. You can be sure that you will accumulate unforgettable memories! Pleasant discoveries in advance!