If you’re seeking a deeper, more spiritual side of Istanbul, make your way to Eyüpsultan — a sacred district that has welcomed pilgrims, poets, and sultans for centuries. Nestled at the head of the Golden Horn, Eyüpsultan offers a peaceful escape from the city’s chaos and invites visitors to slow down, reflect, and connect with Istanbul’s soul.
🕌 Eyüp Sultan Mosque: A Place of Reverence
At the center of this historic district stands the Eyüp Sultan Mosque, one of the most important religious sites in all of Türkiye. Built in 1458, just a few years after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople, the mosque honors Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, a companion of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who is believed to be buried here.
The mosque complex draws visitors not only for its architecture, but also for its deep spiritual atmosphere. During Ramadan and religious holidays, you’ll see locals and travelers alike arriving in reverence to pray, reflect, and feel a unique connection to Islamic heritage.
✨ What to See and Do in Eyüpsultan
🌙 Visit the Tomb of Eyüp Sultan
The mausoleum of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari is just beside the mosque and is a major pilgrimage site for Muslims from around the world. It is especially meaningful to visit before or after Friday prayers.
🚠 Take the Cable Car to Pierre Loti Hill
Named after the French writer and Orientalist who once frequented this hilltop café, Pierre Loti Hill offers panoramic views of the Golden Horn. You can reach the top by cable car (teleferik) or by a scenic walk through the historical cemetery.
Sip a glass of tea as you gaze over Istanbul’s rooftops, minarets, and waters — it’s one of the city’s most serene viewpoints.
🌿 Stroll Through the Ottoman Cemetery
The vast hillside cemetery stretching from the mosque to Pierre Loti is home to centuries-old tombstones, many of which belong to Ottoman scholars, poets, and statesmen. The peaceful paths are shaded by cypress trees and whisper stories of Istanbul’s spiritual past.
🍽️ What to Eat in Eyüpsultan (Alcohol-Free)
- Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at one of the many cafes near Pierre Loti or around the mosque.
- Try kebabs, stuffed vine leaves (yaprak sarma), and sütlaç (rice pudding) in the family-friendly lokantas in the area.
- Sample tulumba tatlısı or lokma, traditional Ottoman-style desserts sold fresh on the street.
Everything in Eyüpsultan is served in a modest, respectful environment, ideal for visitors looking for alcohol-free and culturally sensitive dining.
🏨 Where to Stay
While Eyüpsultan itself is quieter in terms of hotel choices, nearby areas like Fatih and Golden Horn neighborhoods offer a range of accommodations from boutique guesthouses to larger hotels. Many visitors opt to visit Eyüpsultan as a half-day trip from central districts like Sultanahmet or Taksim.
🚍 How to Get There
- By Bus: Direct buses run from Eminönü, Taksim, and Beşiktaş.
- By Metro/Tram + Bus: Take the T1 tram to Eminönü, then continue by bus.
- By Ferry: From Üsküdar to Eyüp (limited seasonal service).
- By Taxi or Private Car: Convenient for early morning or late-night visits.
💡 Insider Tips
- Visit in the early morning for a quiet, reflective experience at the mosque and hilltop.
- Wear modest clothing (especially when entering the mosque).
- Combine with a Golden Horn ferry ride or a walk along the waterside parks.
📸 Image Suggestions
- Exterior of Eyüp Sultan Mosque at sunrise, with soft morning light.
- View from Pierre Loti Hill, with the Golden Horn winding through the city.
- Colorful Ottoman tombstones nestled beneath cypress trees.
📣 Final Invitation
Eyüpsultan is more than a destination — it’s a journey into the heart of Istanbul’s faith and memory. Whether you come for prayer, peace, or panorama, this district will leave you feeling spiritually enriched and historically connected.
👉 Discover more spiritual and cultural treasures at visitistanbul.com — your trusted guide to meaningful travel in Istanbul.
Eyüp Sultan touched my soul in ways I can’t explain. The spiritual atmosphere around the mosque and the cable car ride to Pierre Loti were unforgettable highlights of my Istanbul trip.
Country: Malaysia
Walking through Eyüp felt like stepping back in time. The historic cemetery with its beautiful Ottoman tombstones was surprisingly peaceful. Don’t miss the local artisans around the mosque!
Country: UK
The spiritual energy here is palpable. I joined the locals in prayers at Eyüp Sultan Mosque and it was one of the most moving experiences of my life. The view from the hilltop café is breathtaking!
Country: Egypt
Eyüp Sultan showed me a different side of Istanbul – less touristy, more authentic. The children’s circumcision ceremonies in their beautiful costumes were a unique cultural experience to witness.
Country: France
As a history buff, I was fascinated by Eyüp’s significance in Islamic tradition. The mosque complex and the surrounding markets gave me a real sense of Istanbul’s spiritual heritage.
Country: Singapore
We took our family to Eyüp and everyone loved it! The cable car was exciting for the kids, and we all enjoyed the traditional Turkish breakfast with Golden Horn views. A perfect day trip!
Country: Spain
Eyüp Sultan combines spirituality with natural beauty. I spent hours walking along the Golden Horn, visiting small mosques, and drinking tea while watching the seagulls. Magical!
Country: Japan