Istanbul Walking Route: Column of Constantine to Galata

Explore Istanbul's 14 major attractions spanning 88.1 km, from the historic Column of Constantine and Sultanahmet Historical Center to the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Grand Bazaar. This route covers cultural landmarks, bazaar tours, the Bosphorus Strait, Galata Tower, Istiklal Street, and Taksim Square, blending Byzantine and Ottoman heritage across Europe and Asia.

Distance
88.1 km
Duration
17 h 37 min
Mode
route
Start
Column of Constantine
End
Taksim Square
Stops
14
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Column of Constantine — Ancient Roman column landmark struck by lightning in 1081, originally erected in Rome before relocation to Istanbul
  2. Hagia Sophia — Historic mosque in the Sultanahmet area, a beautiful old structure from the Byzantine era
  3. Blue Mosque — Major mosque located in the Sultanahmet area with distinctive blue interior tilework
  4. Bazaar tour
  5. Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art — Museum in Istanbul providing background information on the city's cultural heritage
  6. Grand Bazaar of Istanbul
  7. Istiklal Street — Major shopping street in Istanbul starting from Taksim Square, featuring international brands
  8. Galata Tower — Historic landmark originally built by Byzantine emperor in the 6th century, accessible by climbing to the top
  9. Dinner Time — Evening dining experience showcasing Turkish cuisine and local flavors while offering views of the city's illuminated landmarks and waterfront.
  10. Hop on Hop off bus — Open-top bus service connecting major attractions throughout the city, allowing flexible exploration of Istanbul's historic sites and neighborhoods.
  11. Egyptian Bazaar — Historic bazaar established in 1664 known for spices, jewelry, and caviar
  12. Sultanahmet Historical Center — Main historical center of Istanbul housing the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia
  13. Bosphorus Strait — Strait connecting the Black Sea and Mediterranean Sea, site of boat tours viewing European and Asian sides
  14. Taksim Square — World Heritage Site and major public plaza in Istanbul

Useful for your trip

Transport
Take a boat tour of the Bosphorus Strait to see both European and Asian sides. Tour costs around $20 per person and is highly recommended.
Tip
Remove your shoes before entering mosques. This is common practice in Turkey and is respectful inside religious buildings.
Timing
Note that the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. Plan your bazaar visits for other days of the week.
Tip
When shopping in bazaars like the rug shops, expect complimentary Turkish coffee or tea to be offered by shopkeepers.
Save money
Buy a museum pass for around 700 lira to access over 10 different museums in Istanbul, including free entry to Galata Tower.
Transport
Ferry tickets cost about 4.50 euros for 10 trips. Use ferries to cross the Bosphorus or explore surrounding areas.
Food
Try Turkish coffee and Turkish delight. Turkish coffee is strong and can be very energizing. Both are popular local treats.
Tip
Shorts are acceptable when visiting mosques as long as they extend past your knees.
Timing
Visit during August if possible; temperatures around 30°C (88°F) with hot afternoons but pleasant mornings and evenings.
Tip
Sultanahmet area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site containing Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Column of Constantine in the historical center.

Video on this route

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