Istanbul sightseeing map: Sultanahmet sights and walking times

Can you explore the historic peninsula on foot?

Yes; walking is the best way to see Sultanahmet. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern, the Hippodrome and Topkapı Palace sit on the same hill within a few hundred metres, on fairly level streets. The Grand Bazaar is a gentle climb along Divanyolu, while the Spice Bazaar and Eminönü are downhill; with children it is easiest to ride the T1 tram back.

Main streets and squares are fine with a stroller; side streets may have cobbles and narrow pavements. The rings on the map show 500 m and 1 km in a straight line from Sultanahmet stop; the walking-time table allows for winding streets and a child’s pace.

What does a one-day walking route with kids look like?

1. Hagia Sophia early in the morning: queues are shorter. The Basilica Cistern, 3 minutes away, is cool and a big hit with children.
2. Blue Mosque and Hippodrome towards noon: visit the mosque outside prayer times; the obelisks and fountain on the square make a short break.
3. Lunch and Arasta Bazaar: the quiet bazaar behind the mosque and the Mosaic Museum.
4. Gülhane Park in the afternoon: free, with shady lawns and paths; keep Topkapı Palace for a separate half day (closed on Tuesdays).

For more ideas see our guides to things to do with kids, around Hagia Sophia and Topkapı and Gülhane.

Where are the city’s other sightseeing areas?

• Galata and Beyoğlu: Galata Tower, İstiklal Avenue and Taksim; via the T1 to Karaköy or Kabataş.
• Golden Horn: the colourful houses of Balat, Fener, Eyüp Sultan Mosque and Pierre Loti; by T1 and T5 tram.
• Bosphorus: Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy and the Bosphorus cruises from Eminönü.
• Asian side: Kadıköy market, the Moda seafront, Üsküdar and the Maiden’s Tower; by ferry or Marmaray.
• Princes’ Islands: Büyükada by ferry from Kabataş; a car-free day trip that suits families.

Rail connections for all of them are on our Istanbul metro map, and step-by-step routes in getting around Istanbul from Sultanahmet.

How can I use this map?

Use the button under the map to download it as a PNG and save it on your phone; it opens without internet. You can also print it and take it with you. This is a simple drawing of the main sights and tram stops; for street-by-street directions use the map app on your phone or the free OpenStreetMap. The numbered markers are our hotels; tap one to open the hotel’s page.