10 Best Things to Do in Fatih, Istanbul: Mosques, Bazaars & Landmarks
Fatih district, considered the heart of Istanbul, is an area that bears traces of both the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, making it akin to an open-air museum. This district, which encompasses the ‘old city’ part of Istanbul, has historically been the city's administrative, commercial, and religious centre. Today, when one thinks of places to visit in Fatih, the main attractions that come to mind include Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, Sultanahmet Mosque, Yerebatan Cistern, Grand Bazaar and many other historical structures. Each one showcases Istanbul's thousands of years of cultural heritage.
In this guide, you will find the 10 most popular stops in Fatih that are a must-see, along with tips for visiting. These stops are the best way to understand the spirit of the city, especially for those visiting Istanbul for the first time!
1. Hagia Sophia
When one mentions Fatih, the first place that comes to mind is undoubtedly Hagia Sophia. Built in 537 by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, Hagia Sophia served as the patriarchate of the Byzantine Empire for many years. After the conquest of Istanbul in 1453, it was converted into a mosque and became one of the most important religious centres of the city during the Ottoman period. The building, which gained museum status in the mid-20th century, is now used as a mosque again and welcomes millions of tourists from all over the world.
Among the most striking features of Hagia Sophia are its enormous dome, gold mosaics, Byzantine frescoes, and calligraphic panels added during the Ottoman period. While exploring this space, it is possible to see traces of both Christian and Islamic art side by side. Hagia Sophia is always at the top of the list of places to visit in Fatih.
2. Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque)
Located directly opposite Hagia Sophia, the Sultanahmet Mosque was built in the 17th century by architect Sedefkâr Mehmet Ağa. It is known as the ‘Blue Mosque’ by foreigners because of the blue Iznik tiles that adorn its interior. With its six minarets, it is one of the most magnificent examples of Ottoman mosque architecture.
There are a few points to note when entering the mosque: it may be closed to tourists during prayer times, shoes must be removed at the entrance, and visitors are expected to dress appropriately. The Sultanahmet Mosque, with its architecture and spiritual atmosphere, is a must-see stop on any list of places to visit in Fatih.
3. Topkapı Palace
Topkapı Palace served as the residence of Ottoman sultans and the administrative centre of the state for approximately 400 years. The palace's four courtyards, harem quarters, kitchens, weapon collections and sacred relics offer visitors a broad historical panorama.
The harem section, in particular, reveals intriguing details about the private life of the Ottoman dynasty. Furthermore, the views of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn from the palace terraces allow visitors to fully experience the beauty of Istanbul. Among the places to visit in Fatih, Topkapı Palace is a unique experience for those wishing to learn about Ottoman history.
4. The Basilica Cistern
A hidden treasure beneath the ground, the Basilica Cistern was built during the Byzantine period to meet the city's water needs. Supported by hundreds of columns, this enormous water reservoir is now a popular tourist attraction thanks to its mystical atmosphere and lighting.
Its most striking feature is the Medusa head sculptures. Various legends are told about the location and meaning of these sculptures. The Basilica Cistern offers an unforgettable experience, particularly for photography enthusiasts and history buffs, among the places to visit in Fatih.
5. Grand Bazaar
One of the world's oldest shopping centres, the Grand Bazaar has been the heart of Istanbul's commercial life since the 15th century. With its narrow streets, domed shops, goldsmiths, carpet sellers, spice merchants and antique dealers, it is like a labyrinth.
Haggling is customary when shopping at the Grand Bazaar. Here, you not only shop but also experience Istanbul's centuries-old trading culture. Among the places to visit in Fatih, the Grand Bazaar is one of the rare spots that offers both shopping and culture.
6. The Spice Bazaar
Located in Eminönü, the Spice Bazaar is a market where you can find the finest examples of spices, teas, nuts and Turkish delight. It got its name because goods from Egypt were sold here during the Ottoman period.
Today, this bazaar, which is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offers visitors a visual and delicious feast with its colourful stalls. The Egyptian Bazaar is an important stop, especially for those looking to buy souvenirs related to Istanbul.
7. Süleymaniye Mosque
Described by Mimar Sinan as his ‘masterpiece’, the Süleymaniye Mosque was built in the 16th century in the name of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. This mosque, which dominates the skyline of Istanbul, impresses visitors with its size, acoustics and grandeur.
The complex surrounding the mosque includes madrasas, a library, a soup kitchen, and bathhouses. The view of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn from Süleymaniye Hill is also worth seeing. It holds great importance both spiritually and architecturally among the places to visit in Fatih.
8. Kariye Mosque (Chora)
Located in the Edirnekapı district of Fatih, Kariye is famous for its Byzantine-era mosaics and frescoes. The scenes depicting the lives of Jesus and Mary are considered among the most important examples of Christian iconography.
Although this building, which served as a museum for many years, now functions as a mosque, it continues to attract considerable interest due to its artistic value and interior decorations. Kariye holds particular significance for enthusiasts of Byzantine art on the list of places to visit in Fatih.
9. Istanbul Archaeology Museums
Located right next to Topkapı Palace, the Istanbul Archaeology Museums consist of three separate museums: the Archaeology Museum, the Museum of Ancient Oriental Art, and the Tiled Pavilion. This complex, which displays artefacts collected from different parts of the world, also houses valuable collections from Mesopotamia, Anatolia, and Egyptian civilisations outside of Istanbul.
These museums, which history enthusiasts should definitely visit, are among the most comprehensive cultural stops in Fatih.
10. Sultanahmet Square (Hippodrome)
Today's Sultanahmet Square was used as a hippodrome during the Byzantine period. Horse races, public spectacles and imperial ceremonies were held here. Monuments still visible in the square today include the Theodosius Obelisk, the Serpent Column and the German Fountain.
The square has witnessed important events of both the Byzantine and Ottoman periods and has now become a meeting point for tourists and Istanbulites. Among the places to visit in Fatih, Sultanahmet Square is an open-air museum with historical layers that is a must-see.
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