Transportation – this is the root of Sirkeci, the district in Istanbul that falls between Eminonu and the Old City, Sultanahmet. It’s a stone’s thrown away from the Golden Horn and the accompanying Galata Bridge.
This area actually got its name from the Sirkeci Station (or Sirkeci Gar, as the Ottomans called it then) – where you can hop on the Orient Express. This is the terminus for that famed train ride, and throughout the years, the area around the station evolved and became the tourist destination it is now. You see, because of the influx of passengers, there arose a need for hotels, inns and restaurants. Sadly, no hotel from that era survived. The influx of tourists, however, continued. That is why there are a lot of tourist-related establishments in the area. Here, you will see Turkish restaurants, hotels, and tourist agencies. Yes, the spirit of hospitality that brought this district to life lives on!
Although the Orient Express, that luxury train, ended its run, this station is still popular. Trains plying the routes to and fro other European countries still make their stop at the Sirkeci Station, although none can be considered as elegant as the Orient Express. The station continues to be an important travel hub – the Zeytinburnu-Kabatas tram, as well as a number of suburban trains make this an integral part of their individual routes. In fact, you can go to any point in Istanbul from this station. The tram will bring you not just to Sultanahmet, but to the Ataturk Airport, Tunel and Kabatas. Future developments include a plan to turn the station into a museum when the massive tunnel and rails project is completed.
Sirkeci is very close to the heart of the old city, with all its attractions – the Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Palace and the Blue Mosque. This 19th century station is just right next to the Galata Bridge, the Eminonu ferry docks and Seraglio Point. It will also take a short walk for you to get to the Egyptian Bazaar, as well as other sights in the Old City.
The advantage of staying in Sirkeci is that hotel rates are considerably lower compared to the rates of hotels at Sultanahmet.