Location

Saratoga Hotel is located in Sultanahmet, Istanbul’s historic district, and there are many important historical sites in the surrounding area. These include:

1. Hagia Sophia: Built in the 6th century, Hagia Sophia is one of the most important buildings of the Byzantine Empire and one of Istanbul’s most recognizable symbols.
2. Sogukcesme Street: Sogukcesme Street, one of the oldest streets in Istanbul, is an area where many important statesmen and aristocrats used to have mansions in the late Ottoman Empire. Today, the historic mansions, museums, and galleries on the street are visited by tourists.
3. Hagia Irene: Hagia Irene, one of the oldest Byzantine churches in Istanbul, is located right next to Hagia Sophia. Although its construction date is not known exactly, it is estimated to have been built in the 4th century. It was used as the palace’s music library during the imperial period and is now used for concerts and events.
4. Sultan Ahmed Mosque: The mosque, built by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century, is one of Istanbul’s largest and most famous mosques.
5. Topkapi Palace: Topkapi Palace, which hosted the Ottoman Empire’s rulers, is one of Istanbul’s largest palaces and now serves as a museum.
6. Grand Bazaar: Built by the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century, the Grand Bazaar is one of Istanbul’s most famous shopping centers and hosts thousands of shops.
7. Spice Bazaar: Also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, the Spice Bazaar is one of Istanbul’s most famous bazaars. It was built in the 17th century and offers various products such as spices, dried fruits, chocolates, sweets, and souvenirs.
8. Basilica Cistern: Built to store water during the Byzantine Empire, the Basilica Cistern is one of Istanbul’s most interesting historical structures and is frequently visited by tourists today.
9. Hippodrome: The Hippodrome, where events such as horse racing and gladiator fights were held during the Byzantine Empire, is now used as a historical square.
10. German Fountain: The German Fountain, which was built in the late 19th century and features a blend of Italian and German architectural elements, is an important tourist destination in Istanbul. It was a gift from Sultan Abdulhamid II to Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany.
11. Great Palace Mosaics Museum: A museum that exhibits mosaics from the Byzantine era. It is part of the Istanbul Archaeology Museums and is located next to the Arasta Bazaar. It is close to Sultanahmet Square.
12. Arasta Bazaar: A historic bazaar located next to Sultanahmet Mosque on the seaside. It is famous for its shops selling carpets, rugs, jewelry, and souvenirs.
13. Bukoleon Palace: Bukoleon Palace, one of the palaces of the Byzantine Empire, is located near Topkapi Palace. The remains of the palace can still be seen.
14. Cistern of Philoxenos: The Cistern of Philoxenos is a cistern located south of Hagia Sophia. It was built on 28 columns arranged in two rows and is a structure from the Byzantine era.
15. Çemberlitaş: Çemberlitaş, an ancient monument from the Byzantine era, is one of the oldest structures in Istanbul. It has been repaired and restored many times over the years. The monument is considered a symbol of the founding of Constantinople.
16. Basilica Cistern: The Basilica Cistern, built during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, is one of the largest cisterns in Istanbul. It is named after the 1,001 columns inside the cistern. The water inside was used to meet Istanbul’s water needs during the Byzantine era. Today, it is a tourist attraction.
17. Little Hagia Sophia Mosque: Little Hagia Sophia, a church from the Byzantine era, was built in the 6th century. It was later converted into a mosque.
18. Archaeological Museums: The Istanbul Archaeological Museums are home to many artifacts from ancient times and are a must-visit for those interested in history.
19. Gülhane Park: Gülhane Park, one of the largest parks in Istanbul, was used as a palace garden during the Ottoman Empire and now offers a beautiful view of Istanbul.
20. Beyoğlu: Beyoğlu, one of the most important neighborhoods in Istanbul, attracts visitors with its historical buildings, cultural venues, shopping centers, and entertainment venues.
21. Galata Tower: Galata Tower, one of Istanbul’s most famous tourist attractions, offers a panoramic view of the city at 67 meters high.
22. Taksim Square: Taksim Square, known as the modern face of Istanbul, hosts many events and shows every year.
23. Dolmabahçe Palace: Dolmabahçe Palace, built in the final period of the Ottoman Empire, is one of Istanbul’s most magnificent structures.
24. İstiklal Avenue: İstiklal Avenue, one of Istanbul’s most famous streets, is known for its historical buildings, shopping centers, restaurants, and bars.

All of these places are within walking distance of Saratoga Hotel and offer great options for those who want to explore Istanbul’s historical and cultural heritage.