A spiritual journey in the shadow of Hagia Sophia, Ottoman palace cuisine, famous street flavors, and the peaceful streets of Fatih.
The starting point of our trip is undoubtedly Hagia Sophia. Serving as a church for centuries, then a mosque, then a museum, and finally a mosque again, this structure is a masterpiece of architectural history. For conservative families, praying under the huge dome of Hagia Sophia is the pinnacle of spiritual pleasure. The calligraphy plates, mosaics, and atmosphere inside take one back centuries. We recommend planning your visit according to prayer times to experience this spiritual atmosphere with the congregation.
Right across from Hagia Sophia stands the Blue Mosque, rising to the sky with its six minarets. Known by Europeans as the 'Blue Mosque', this masterpiece dazzles with more than 20,000 Iznik tiles adorning its interior. The spacious courtyard of the mosque and the peace within are perfect for escaping the chaos of the city. Performing ablution here and feeling the spirituality is a must for a trip to the Historic Peninsula.
Topkapi Palace, the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire, is not just a museum but a place that houses the most precious treasures of Islamic history. The **Holy Relics (Mukaddes Emanetler)** chamber located in the 'Privy Chamber' section of the palace is the most crucial point of the visit for conservative families. In this section, where the Holy Mantle and sword of our Prophet (pbuh) and items belonging to other prophets are exhibited, the Quran is recited 24 hours a day without interruption. Breathing in this spiritual atmosphere is a chilling experience.
Istanbul is the meeting point of civilizations; but if this city has a 'heart', it is definitely the Historic Peninsula. On one side, the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, the apple of the Islamic world's eye; on the other, Topkapi Palace reflecting the magnificence of the Ottomans and the spiritual atmosphere of Fatih... In this guide, we will embark on not just a tourist trip, but also a journey of gastronomy and spirituality full of halal flavors. If you are ready, let's start walking at the zero point of history.
History tours make you hungry. The first flavor that comes to mind when Sultanahmet is mentioned is the famous **Sultanahmet Meatballs**. In the century-old establishments in the square (For example: Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi Selim Usta), you can taste grilled meatballs prepared with additive-free, halal-cut meat. Served with special bean salad (piyaz) and ayran, this menu is both a delicious and filling classic. These venues are alcohol-free and have a family atmosphere.
You cannot remain indifferent to the smells hitting your nose while walking around Sultanahmet Square and Gülhane Park. Roasted chestnuts in winter, boiled corn in summer, and fresh crispy simit in all seasons... These street flavors are the most intimate part of the Istanbul trip. Also, traditional Ottoman Paste or Maraş ice cream bought from vendors in Ottoman costumes makes the trip more fun, especially for children. All are halal and safe snacks.
We turn our route from Sultanahmet into the depths of Fatih, to 'Real Istanbul'. Fatih Mosque and Complex is the spiritual center of the region. This is one of the neighborhoods where the conservative lifestyle is most vibrant. In the streets of Fatih (especially Malta Bazaar), you can find shops selling local products, modest clothing stores, and artisan restaurants serving only halal delicacies. You can relieve the tiredness of the day in restaurants offering the best examples of Syrian, Palestinian, and Turkish cuisine, where alcohol is not available.
This route stretching from Sultanahmet to Fatih appeals not only to your eyes but also to your soul and palate. The peace of a prayer performed in Hagia Sophia, the taste of a meal eaten at a historical meatball shop, and the sincerity in the streets of Fatih are the values that make Istanbul what it is. You must follow this route to breathe in this historical atmosphere and spend an unforgettable and spiritually deep day with your family.
