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Good morning Istanbul! There is nothing like exploring the city in the morning without the hustle and bustle of the crowds. Istanbul has plenty to offer for a memorable start to your day, from feeling the morning atmosphere at Sultanahmet Square to watching the sunrise over the Bosphorus Strait from the Galata Bridge. Don’t miss indulging in a traditional Turkish breakfast and listening to the melodic sound of the morning call to prayer from the city’s mosques. So wake up early and experience the beauty of Istanbul in the morning!
Things to Do in Istanbul in the Morning
There are plenty of things to do in Istanbul in the morning. We have made a list of 8 activities for you so that you won’t be bored after an early flight or if you are an early riser!
Feel How the Morning Comes at Sultanahmet Square
Start your day in the heart of Istanbul’s historic district, Sultanahmet Square. Take a walk to Akbiyik street to see the very early morning cleaning up of the bars and restaurants. Continue your walk to Blue Mosque and Sultanahmet Park and Hippodrome. You can walk around there, absorb the atmosphere, and then return to your hotel to have some breakfast. The Blue Mosque and every single mosque in Turkey is open for morning prayer after 6am.
Take a Morning Tour to See the Must-Places of the City
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich history and culture is to take a morning tour of the city’s must-see attractions. A guided tour allows you to explore iconic sites such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar, all while learning about their significance from an expert guide.
A morning tour is an excellent choice for those who want to beat the crowds and make the most of their time in the city. With cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, you can truly appreciate the beauty and charm of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks.
Walk and Eat at Taksim Square in the Morning
If you are staying in the Taksim area, be sure to visit the 24/7 sandwich places and restaurants at Taksim Square, and take a walk along Istiklal Street. The metro station at Taksim opens at 6:00 AM for the first metro run.
Go to Galata Bridge to See Sunrise
Make your way to the iconic Galata Bridge, a perfect spot to watch the sunrise over the Bosphorus Strait. This is an ideal location for taking photos and watching the fishermen cast their lines in the early morning.
Enjoy Turkish Breakfast and Turkish Coffee in the Early Morning in Istanbul
No visit to Istanbul is complete without indulging in a traditional Turkish breakfast. Istanbul offers a variety of breakfast places, from street vendors to high-end restaurants, where you can enjoy freshly baked bread, eggs, cheese, olives, jams, and honey, all accompanied by a cup of strong Turkish coffee.
Find the best places with Turkish Breakfast in Istanbul >>
Find the best places with Turkish Coffee in Istanbul >>
Listen to Morning Early Istanbul Prayer Call
As the sun rises, listen to the melodic sound of the morning call to prayer from the city’s mosques of Istanbul. It’s a mesmerizing experience that will make you feel the heart and soul of the city.
Take the First Istanbul Ferry from Eminonu at 7 AM
Take the first ferry from Eminonu at 7 AM (or earlier) and enjoy the serene waters of the Bosphorus while the city slowly wakes up. It’s a unique way to see Istanbul from a different perspective and catch the sunrise over the Bosphorus.
Go for a Walk to the Moda Seaside
Take a leisurely walk along the Moda Seaside, one of Istanbul’s lesser-known but beautiful spots. You’ll find a peaceful atmosphere, charming cafes, and great views of the sea. It’s also a great spot to catch the sunrise if you are on the Asian side of Istanbul!
Looking for more things to do in Moda? Check out our guide
Watch a Sunrise in a Tea Garden next to the Dolmabahçe Mosque
For a unique Istanbul experience, watch the sunrise from a tea garden next to the Dolmabahçe Mosque. Sip on a hot cup of Turkish tea while watching the city come to life with the morning light.
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Conclusion
One of the most enchanting experiences in Istanbul is waking up early to listen to the melodic sound of the morning prayer call from the city’s mosques. Additionally, exploring the city in the early morning hours can be a refreshing and memorable experience. However, it’s important to be prepared for the morning weather in Istanbul, which can be cool and damp, so make sure to dress accordingly. There are plenty of things to do in Istanbul in the morning, from visiting the historical sites in Sultanahmet Square to enjoying a traditional Turkish breakfast and watching the sunrise over the Bosphorus. Don’t miss out on these unforgettable experiences in Istanbul!
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