Sirkeci Station, perched at the tip of Istanbul’s historic peninsula, is more than a mere railway terminus: it is a living monument bridging empires and eras. Since its completion in 1890, the station has symbolized the city’s link between East and West. Its striking Moorish-inspired façade – horseshoe arches, alternating bands of cream and red brick, twin clock towers – and its storied role as the terminus of the legendary Orient Express have made it an enduring emblem of Istanbul’s imperial past.

Architecturally, Sirkeci was groundbreaking. It was praised as a fusion of European (notably French Art Nouveau) and Ottoman design, and at its opening it sported modern innovations: 300 gas lanterns and imported Austrian tile stoves to heat the vast halls. Stepping into the main hall today is like stepping back in time. Visitors still sip tea in the old dining room (now the Orient Express Restaurant) beneath its grand stained-glass skylight, and regular whirling-dervish ceremonies are performed in the adjacent waiting hall. The building seems to whisper stories – of dignitaries and spies, writers and wanderers – that passed through under its soaring arches. This blend of history, romance and daily life gives Sirkeci a spellbinding character.

More Than a Terminal: A Living Monument to History, Romance, and Modernity

Sirkeci Station’s grand design and storied past have helped it endure in the public imagination as something unique. Originally envisioned by Sultan Abdülhamid II as the Ottoman Empire’s triumphal gateway to Europe, it soon came to stand for more than transport. In its heyday it was the backdrop for cross-continental drama: dignitaries alighted from the Orient Express, journalists dined under its glass ceilings, and travelers gazed through its windows at the glimmering waters of the Golden Horn. Even today, beyond the modern commuter rush, Sirkeci feels timeless. Photographers linger to capture its patterns of light and brick; diners at the Orient Express Restaurant pore over black-and-white photographs on the walls; and passers-by pause beneath its twin clock towers as if stepping into a Turkish delight. In short, Sirkeci Station remains a living monument, alive with both history and the hum of Istanbul’s present.

Quick Facts & Key Information at a Glance

• Opened: The original temporary station opened in 1873, and the grand terminal building was inaugurated in 1890.
• Architect: August Jasmund, a Prussian architect, designed the station in an eclectic blend of European Orientalism and Art Nouveau.
• Platforms & Tracks: The station comprises three above-ground platforms, one underground platform, and a total of seven tracks. It was electrified in 2013 with 25 kV AC overhead lines.
• Services: Historically the terminus of the Paris–Istanbul Orient Express, it also hosted express trains to Bucharest, Sofia and Thessaloniki until 2013. After closure for modernization, it re-opened on 26 February 2024 as part of Istanbul’s Marmaray-Kazlıçeşme suburban line.
• Connectivity: Sirkeci is linked to Istanbul’s public transit network. The T1 tram line terminates at its forecourt, ferries connect to the Asian shore, and buses (including the airport shuttle BN1/BN2) serve nearby stops. An underground Marmaray commuter station (opened 2013) lies just beneath Sirkeci, linking it to continental rail routes.

The Grand History of Sirkeci Station: From Ottoman Ambition to Modern Metropolis

The Dream of an Imperial Terminus: Sultan Abdülhamid II’s Vision

By the late 19th century, the Ottoman Empire felt intense pressure to modernize its infrastructure. Sultan Abdülaziz (r. 1861–76) had already decided that the new railway from Europe should hug the Marmara shore and terminate at Istanbul. On 21 July 1872 the first train reached a modest new Sirkeci depot – Istanbul’s first direct rail link to continental Europe. At that time, the station was a simple wooden shed built behind a mosque, but it proved the point: the empire was now physically connected to the rest of Europe.

That initial success fueled grander ambitions under Sultan Abdülhamid II. By the 1880s, plans were laid for a magnificent new terminal befitting the Orient Express and the Ottoman capital. The project was undertaken by a European consortium (the Chemins de fer Orientaux) closely tied to Prussian interests. In early 1888 construction began on the new building under the direction of August Jasmund, a young German architect sent to Istanbul by the Kaiser’s government. Sultan Abdülhamid himself attended the cornerstone ceremony. The goal was bold: create a station “fit for the Orient Express,” a symbol that the Ottoman Empire was part of the modern world.

Who Built Sirkeci Station? The Story of Architect August Jasmund

Construction of the grand new station advanced swiftly. The chief architect, August Jasmund (1850–1899), was a Prussian who had come to Istanbul to study Ottoman design and was already teaching at the local engineering school. Jasmund embraced an Orientalist approach: he merged Western railway engineering with traditional Eastern motifs. His vision produced an Orientalist masterpiece. The design blends Gothic and Moorish elements: pointed horseshoe arches and intricate brick patterns sit alongside iron-and-glass roofing and a large decorative rose window. In the end, Jasmund wrapped a thoroughly modern steel structure in the garb of an Ottoman palace.

Blending East and West: Jasmund’s Orientalist Masterpiece

Jasmund’s station fused local motifs with Victorian-era technology. The façade’s twin clock towers rise like minarets, and the walls are striped in red and white stone, reminiscent of Byzantine and Seljuk designs. Its broad arches incorporate pointed horseshoe shapes inspired by Anatolian mosques – as one guide notes, “pointed horseshoe-arched windows” and ornate tile work everywhere evoke the region’s heritage. At night the effect was dramatic: the building was fitted with 300 gas lanterns and heated by Austrian tile stoves, bathing the interior in a warm glow.

Inside, the main hall soars under an iron-and-glass roof. Festoons of colored glass filter the sunlight into jewel tones, and richly carved wooden banisters and tiled floors give a palatial feel. In many ways Sirkeci became a statement: it appeared outwardly like an Ottoman mosque or bazaar – full of Eastern detail – yet served the cutting edge of 19th-century travel technology. As one commentator put it, the station was built “to reflect the city’s East-meets-West spirit,” with Seljuk-inspired windows, stained glass and elaborate carpets on the walls. The result is often called “European Orientalism”: a European take on Middle Eastern style.

Iconic Façade: Clock Towers, Horseshoe Arches, and Intricate Brickwork

At street level, Sirkeci’s façade is instantly recognizable. Its symmetrical frontage is punctuated by two tall clock towers (each topped with spire-like finials) flanking a central arched portal. Above the entrance arch, the Sultan’s tughra (cyrillic seal) is carved in stone, a reminder of the building’s imperial patron. The broad archway of the entrance is exactly one Turkish oncu kademe (unit of construction), giving it a harmonious geometry. The stonework is richly detailed: alternating layers of red granite and pale limestone create bold horizontal stripes, a motif borrowed from Anatolian and Byzantine tradition. At the top rises a band of terracotta Arabic script, and little crenellations along the roofline hint at fortress walls. In short, the façade melds European station architecture with unmistakably Eastern flourishes.

Inside the Main Hall: Stained Glass Windows and Tiled Splendor

Inside the grand waiting hall, the station continues to astonish. The ceiling is a rhythmic series of iron trusses and wooden rafters soaring 12–15 meters high, punctuated by rows of elaborate stained-glass skylights. On a sunny afternoon, colored light filters down in brilliant patterns onto the tiled floor. The walls and mezzanines are paneled in richly carved wood and wrought iron. Even the columns and capitals are historically styled: some are directly copied from Ottoman or Arab models. The effect is one of warmth and grandeur. Travelers in the 19th century marveled at how “the cold European steel structure” here “blends seamlessly into a warm, decorated room” filled with oriental rugs and decorative lanterns. Today, this same beauty remains – and photography enthusiasts often gather here to capture the interplay of light and shadow on the old furnishings.

The German Fountain: A Gift Cementing an Alliance

Just a few blocks away in the Sultanahmet area stands the German Fountain, a related symbol of the era’s East-West entente. Gifted by Kaiser Wilhelm II in 1900 to mark the 1898 anniversary of his visit, this ornate gazebo-like fountain was assembled in Istanbul from materials carved in Germany. Its octagonal dome is lined with golden mosaics and rests on elegant marble columns. The fountain was intended to honor the Ottoman-German alliance at the turn of the century, paralleling Sirkeci’s own origins: just as the fountain commemorates the meeting of German and Ottoman rulers, Sirkeci Station was largely financed and designed through German-Ottoman cooperation. The proximity of these monuments – one a train station and the other a fountain – reminds us that Sirkeci was as much a political statement as an infrastructure project.

Symbolism in Stone and Glass: Reading the Building’s Hidden Stories

The architecture of Sirkeci Station conveys many layers of meaning. Its very location – on the Seraglio Point below Topkapı Palace – was chosen by the Sultan to underscore the bridge between the old walled city and modern Europe. The station’s inscriptions and plaques memorialize its patrons: for example, the Sultan’s tughra is carved on the arch above the entrance, linking the building to Abdülhamid II’s reign. Elsewhere inside, one can still spot the coat of arms of the German Kaiser, a nod to the station’s foreign sponsors. In the patterned tile mosaics and calligraphic friezes, the designers embedded Ottoman symbols (crescent moons, tughra motifs, Arabic script) alongside floral and geometric Art Nouveau details. Through these details – Islamic arches married to a steel structure, eastern decoration on a Western building – Sirkeci Station literally tells the story of its age: an empire reaching out and embracing modernity and international friendship.

A Photographer’s Paradise: The Most Photogenic Spots In and Around the Station

The station is widely regarded as a paradise for photographers and history lovers alike. Everywhere the eye is drawn: the vantage from the platform looking back through the arch is cinematic, with the twin towers perfectly framing the sky; the beams of the roof catch the late-afternoon light in stunning effect. Even the details invite shots – the intricately carved wooden benches, the old porcelain-tiled stoves, the brass-lit lanterns, the station’s vintage signs and clocks. On the embankment side, the tracks stretch away toward the sea, offering a classic ‘railway perspective’ shot (the old Bosphorus Express and freight trains long departed, but the scene remains evocative). Travel writers often note that the station seems “built to be an architectural photographer’s dream,” with endless angles and fascinating textures. Whether bathed in the glow of sunset or lit by the station’s stained glass by day, Sirkeci provides a treasure trove of images. It’s no wonder Instagram and coffee-table books on Istanbul feature the station’s facade and hall so prominently.

The Istanbul Railway Museum: A Hidden Gem Inside the Station

What to See Inside the Museum

Hidden within the old terminal building is a small but delightful museum of railway history. The Istanbul Railway Museum houses roughly 300 items that chronicle Turkey’s rail heritage. Upon entering, you encounter display cases filled with curiosities: conductor and station-master uniforms, vintage telegraph machines and lanterns, and even an original brass station clock and bell once used at Sirkeci. In one glass case you will find an actual drawer of dining-car china and silver from the Orient Express, and nearby stands a polished brass nameplate from a passenger car. Perhaps the star attractions are the pieces of furniture from Sirkeci’s own golden age – original leather armchairs, a ticket office desk and a segment of the old waiting-room banquette. These exhibits are accompanied by historic photographs and timetables, so you can imagine a traveler in 1890 reading a printed schedule while steam engines roared outside. Though modest in size, the museum conveys the drama of 19th-century travel: seeing an Orient Express dining table first-hand or inspecting an engineer’s brass-rimmed lantern somehow makes history tangible.

Original Furnishings and Memorabilia

Notably, the museum displays furniture from the actual Orient Express and Sirkeci Station itself. A visitor can sit on a tufted salon seat from a dining car or admire a set of engraved silverware that once served Sultan-era high teas. There is even a restored guard’s compartment – walk through the tiny cabin of an old electric locomotive and imagine the driver pulling out onto the tracks for a night run to Europe. Small details delight: enamel station signs with the old logos, wood-and-glass ticket counters, and bulkhead-mounted lamps. One corner holds a showcase of photographs showing life on the platforms in 1930s Istanbul. Children and enthusiasts alike often linger here, peering at the artifacts and conjuring up stories of past travelers.

Planning Your Visit: Opening Hours, Location, and Tips

The museum is located on the ground floor of the historic terminal building, adjacent to the main waiting hall. Entrance is through the glass doors marked Müze (Museum). There is no admission fee – it is free of charge. Opening hours are roughly 9:00–17:00 daily except Sunday and Monday, when the museum is closed. (Note that these hours may vary on holidays, so it’s wise to check the official website or call ahead.) Since Sirkeci is primarily a commuter station, the quietest times to visit are mid-morning or mid-afternoon on a weekday, when school groups tend not to crowd the rooms. Security staff are friendly and often happy to answer questions or explain exhibits. The museum space is small (perhaps 100–200 square meters) but densely filled, so allow about 20–30 minutes for a thorough visit. Photography is usually permitted without flash. The restrooms are not in the museum itself, but are available in the adjacent station hall.

Is the Sirkeci Station Museum Free?

Yes. The Istanbul Railway Museum is open free of charge to all visitors. Tickets are not required. In fact, the museum is run by the City of Istanbul and Turkish State Railways as a cultural site, with no ticket sales on premises. (That said, please support the museum by leaving a voluntary donation if you wish.) For travelers who are budget-conscious, the free entry means you can enjoy all the exhibits at no cost, making it an excellent value stop as part of your Istanbul itinerary.

Is It Worth Visiting? A Candid Review

For railway enthusiasts and history buffs, the Railway Museum is a must-see. Even casual tourists often find it charming: it offers a cool break from the hot sun and an offbeat story few other sites do. The reviews from past visitors are uniformly positive, praising the authenticity of the artifacts and the atmosphere. One online travel forum notes that “seeing the Orient Express dining car table or holding an old station lantern in your hand is a thrill you don’t expect at a random subway stop.” The combination of an actual historic building and its preserved contents gives the place real character. If you have only an hour in Sirkeci, the station museum is likely the highlight; it brings to life the images you just read about in the history and architecture above. In our view, spending even 15–20 minutes inside is worthwhile if you’re at the station anyway.

Sirkeci Station Today: A Tale of Two Terminals

Is Sirkeci Station Still in Use? Yes – but as Marmaray Terminal

Yes. Since 2013, Sirkeci Station has been reborn as a modern underground stop on Istanbul’s Marmaray rail tunnel beneath the Bosporus. In practical terms, the stately 1890 building no longer sees international steam trains, but the station remains very much alive. Commuters and tourists stream daily through its halls to catch fast suburban trains under the sea to the Asian side. The Marmaray station opened on 29 October 2013 as part of a five-station project. On weekdays it handles trains roughly every 5–10 minutes during peak hours. Indeed, Sirkeci (Marmaray) quickly became one of the busier stops: as of 2017 its average daily ridership was about 24,300 passengers. In short, the old terminal is now a new terminal – one that shuttles Istanbulites and visitors across continents rather than out to Europe.

The Marmaray Connection: Sirkeci’s Modern Underground Rebirth

What is the Marmaray? It is a modern rail tunnel and commuter line that links the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Opened in 2013, Marmaray uses electric trains that pass under the Bosporus. Sirkeci Station’s role is to serve as the western (European) terminus of Marmaray (the eastern terminus is at Ayrılık Çeşmesi near Kadıköy). Commuters from Asia ride the tunnel and emerge at Sirkeci’s deep-level platforms to continue on to stops like Yenikapı or Kazlıçeşme. Buying tickets is easy: Marmaray uses the city’s IstanbulKart system (the same card used on buses, metro and tram), so you simply tap at the turnstile. The platforms are modern and accessible, with electronic departure boards. In short, today Sirkeci serves the heart of Istanbul’s transit network, connecting the historic center to the entire metropolitan rail grid.

How to Use the Marmaray from Sirkeci (Tickets, Platforms)

To catch a Marmaray train at Sirkeci, one descends from street level via escalator or elevator into the Marmaray concourse. Signage marked with the Marmaray symbol (a stylized wave and track) leads to two spacious subterranean island platforms. Trains run frequently, roughly every 6 minutes, between Sirkeci (Europe) and Ayrılık Çeşmesi (Asia). If you have an IstanbulKart, you simply touch in as you enter, and the fare (roughly 4–6 Turkish lira in 2025) is automatically deducted. If not, there are vending machines and kiosks selling and topping up cards. Note that while the historic building and museum are at street level, the Marmaray platforms are underground and separate; there are clear signs. Also, mind that large crowds often gather at the turnstiles during rush hour (7–9am and 5–7pm), so give yourself a moment for that if commuting.

What Happened to the Old International and Domestic Lines?

All intercity and international train services left Sirkeci in 2013. The famed international Orient Express was discontinued decades earlier (the last service ran in 1977), and after Marmaray opened, the remaining Bosphorus Express to Bulgaria was cut back to terminate at Halkalı instead. In effect, Sirkeci’s rails were repurposed: the shiny new Marmaray service replaced what used to be part of the old suburban network. The classic trains that once rumbled out to Europe or the Anatolian hinterland now operate from other stations: on the European side from Halkalı, and on the Asian side (for example, high-speed trains to Ankara) from new terminals like Harem or Pendik. For daily commuters and Marmaray passengers, Sirkeci is the beginning or end of a journey. For intercity travelers, Sirkeci has become a museum and restaurant – a monument to those bygone routes.

Daily Life at Sirkeci: Commuters, Tourists, and the Rhythm of the Station

Today, Sirkeci Station bustles with a mix of daily commuters, tram users, and tourists. In the morning and evening, local workers swarm through the turnstiles with blouses, briefcases and rolling suitcases, joining the ebb and flow of city life. Between commuter peaks, you’ll see sightseeing groups, family tourists and history buffs among them. Despite the daily grind, the station retains a gentle charm. The old hall still has creaking wooden benches and the faint scent of old wood from the Orient Express Restaurant; the guards in traditional uniforms lounge under the arches. In effect, Sirkeci now lives a dual existence: downstairs lies the shiny efficiency of the Marmaray system, while upstairs lives the romantic past. Although Marmaray trains have modernized Istanbul’s transport, the station still feels like a favorite Parisian café from the 1920s—just with smartphones in hand.

A Practical Guide to Visiting Sirkeci Train Station

How to Get to Sirkeci Station

Sirkeci Station is well connected by several modes of transport. From Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side, you can take the Havaist airport shuttle bus (for example, route IT-2) to Sultanahmet or Eminönü, then walk or transfer to the T1 tram line to reach Sirkeci (Eminönü stop is a few minutes’ walk). Alternatively, a taxi from the airport takes about 30–45 minutes (depending on traffic) and is the quickest door-to-door option. From Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side, the most direct route is to take the shuttle bus (Havaist) to Kadıköy, then a Marmaray train under the Bosporus to Sirkeci. If a taxi is more convenient, note that any ride from SAW to the historic peninsula will also be 45+ minutes.

Within the city, public transit is very convenient. From Sultanahmet or Galata Bridge, hop on the historic T1 tram line to the Eminönü stop (Eminönü is immediately east of Sirkeci; you’ll see the station from the tram stop). From the Asian side, one can also take the Marmaray commuter train: for example, catch a Marmaray train in Üsküdar or Ayrılık Çeşmesi (Kadıköy) and ride one stop west to Sirkeci. Ferries from Karaköy or Kadıköy arrive at Eminönü pier, from which Sirkeci is a short walk uphill (approximately 300 meters). In all cases, modern IstanbulKart transit cards are accepted on trams, buses, metros and ferries – if you plan multiple transfers, get a card at the airport or any kiosk to save time. Recently (early 2024), a new tram line (T6) opened that links Sirkeci to Kazlıçeşme; you can exit at Sirkeci from that line as well, though most visitors come by Marmaray or T1.

Navigating the Station: Layout and Tips

Sirkeci Station now consists of two main areas: the historic 1890 terminal building at street level (the one with the famous façade) and the modern underground platforms for Marmaray. When you arrive at ground level (from Atatürk Bulvarı or Hoca Pasha Street), you’ll see the old facade with its clocks – that’s where the museum and Orient Express Restaurant are located. Behind the arches in that building are the museum exhibits and once-active waiting rooms (remember: this is no longer the boarding area). To reach the Marmaray trains, look for the entrances marked “Marmaray” on signs; one main portal is on Cağaloğlu Street adjacent to the station. Go down the escalators or elevator, and you’ll enter the contemporary Sirkeci Marmaray mezzanine.

In practice, if you walk into Sirkeci Station thinking of traditional stations, you might be momentarily confused. The trains themselves are all below ground, so buying a Marmaray ticket (or topping up your IstanbulKart) happens in the new part. Once downstairs, you’ll find two island platforms (one serving westbound trains toward Halkalı, the other eastbound toward Ayrılık Çeşmesi/Gebze). The platforms are modern, with digital displays showing the next departures. Wayfinding signs clearly separate the “Sirkeci A” (for one direction) and “Sirkeci B” (for the other). It’s helpful to know your direction before descending – for example, choose Platform 1 for Asia-bound trains, Platform 2 for Europe-bound.

Amenities and Facilities

Sirkeci Station offers a surprising number of traveler amenities given its historic status. Dining: Inside the old building you will find the Orient Express Restaurant. This sit-down restaurant, decorated with framed photos of its own railway past, serves Turkish and international dishes. It occupies the old station restaurant space, so it feels like dining in a period set piece. Note that it is moderately priced and popular with tourists – some find it more for the novelty and decor than for haute cuisine. Outside the station (on Atatürk Boulevard or Hocapaşa Street) you will find a multitude of cafes, bakeries, and small lokantas (eatery) offering local fare. A famous nearby spot is Hocapaşa Lokantası, a large traditional buffet; also check out the spice-stall-lined Spice Bazaar a few minutes’ walk away (see below) for quick eats like fish sandwiches by the water.

Restrooms and Locker: Restrooms for men and women are available on the Marmaray platform level, near the ticket barriers. They are clean by Istanbul standards and free to use. However, there is no luggage storage or locker service at Sirkeci. This is important: if you have big bags, do not expect to leave them securely at the station. Many larger hotels offer luggage holds for guests, or you can use official storage services at Istanbul’s main bus stations or some metro hubs.

Accessibility: The station is equipped for disabled access. Elevators and ramps connect street level to the underground platforms, and the Marmaray platforms are level with the train floor. Ticket barriers have wide gates for wheelchairs. The museum is on the ground floor and is accessible as well. The Orient Express Restaurant can be reached without climbing stairs. In general, visitors with mobility needs should have no trouble navigating Sirkeci.

Other Services: You will find a small newsstand/Kiosk inside the historic hall selling snacks, magazines and bottled drinks. An ATM is located in the Marmaray concourse. IstanbulKart reload machines and a small ticket office (with an attendant) stand at the top of the escalator. For those arriving by Marmaray, note that most train tickets are just metro fares; there is no separate intercity ticket office here (those are at Haydarpaşa for Anatolian lines or at Marmaray stations for some suburban routes).

Sirkeci Station in Popular Culture: From Bond to Bollywood

Sirkeci Station has captured imaginations on screen and in storybooks. Perhaps most famously, its sweeping façade and platforms appear in James Bond’s From Russia with Love (1963). In the film, Agent 007 arrives in Istanbul via train, and the movie uses Sirkeci’s distinctive entrance (and even platform scenes with vintage train cars) to stand in for Belgrade, Zagreb and finally Istanbul. Fans of cinema will recognize the huge clock and archway behind Bond as he steps out of a car in front of the station. A similar modern thriller, The International (2009), shot some Istanbul scenes on location (although it mixes locales, Sirkeci-like trains appear). On the small screen and on posters, Sirkeci has occasionally served as shorthand for romantic travel or Cold War intrigue.

In literature, Sirkeci is the setting – or at least the stopping point – for many Istanbul tales. We have already noted Agatha Christie’s association. Likewise, Turkish writers have cited the station as emblematic of Istanbul’s junction of worlds. It often shows up in local photo books and guidebooks as one of the “gateways” to the city. Even street artists and muralists have occasionally depicted its silhouette or Orient Express motifs in works around the city. In short, wherever Istanbul is portrayed as exotic, worldly or nostalgic, images of Sirkeci are never far behind. The station’s romantic aura makes it a symbol not of one movie or book, but of Istanbul’s own story – a crossroads of cultures where anything can happen.

Exploring the Sirkeci Neighborhood: Beyond the Train Tracks

Sirkeci lies in a historic quarter that pulses with life beyond the station. If you have time, step out and explore these nearby highlights:

• Hocapaşa Street’s Culinary Delights: Just a block south of the station, Hocapaşa Sokak is a narrow lane filled with local eateries. Here you’ll find lokantas (casual Turkish restaurants) and small cafes catering mainly to workers and locals. Don’t miss Hocapaşa Lokantası (a large cafeteria-style restaurant) for hearty, affordable Ottoman dishes and kebabs. At dusk, nearby fish grills and meyhanes (traditional taverns) fill up with the clatter of plates and raki. A wander along Hocapaşa Street is a cheap and tasty detour from the tourist trail.
• A Short Stroll to Gülhane Park: Head west for about 10 minutes and you will enter Gülhane Park, Istanbul’s oldest public park once part of the Topkapı Palace gardens. Meandering through shade trees and colorful flowerbeds, you’ll enjoy views of the Sea of Marmara and the Topkapı Palace walls. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed break or picnic, and the paths lead up toward Sultanahmet. In spring and fall, cherry blossoms and tulips draw crowds here; in summer the trees offer cool respite from the city heat.
• The Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı): Directly east of Sirkeci is the famous Spice Bazaar (a 3-minute walk). This historic covered market is a feast for the senses: dozens of stalls sell fragrant spices, Turkish delight, nuts, teas, and honeycombs. Walking under its arched wooden roof, you can sample mouth-watering treats or pick up saffron and sumac as souvenirs. Many visitors also enjoy the seafood restaurants on the water just outside the bazaar – try a fresh fish sandwich from one of the boats moored by Galata Bridge, a true Istanbul classic.
• Sirkeci to the Grand Bazaar: The Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) is only about 1.5 km north of Sirkeci. You can reach it quickly by tram: from the Eminönü/Eminönü tram stop (just steps from Sirkeci), take the T1 line eastbound one stop to Beyazıt-Kapalı Çarşı. From there, it’s a short walk along the covered arcade. By foot it’s about a 15–20 minute walk through historic streets (heading past the German Fountain and then into the Beyazıt district). Both ways are straightforward; many travelers do it to combine both markets in one outing.
• Hotels Near Sirkeci Station: Accommodation is plentiful in and around Sirkeci, catering to all budgets. Budget travelers can choose hostels or guesthouses in Eminönü/Hocapaşa (e.g. Cheers Hostel or Limani Hostel). Several well-reviewed mid-range hotels are clustered around the station: for example, Sirkeci Mansion (a boutique hotel themed on Ottoman railways) or Legacy Ottoman Hotel (a small hotel on the waterfront). If you prefer higher-end lodgings, the luxury hotels are primarily in nearby neighborhoods such as Karaköy or Sultanahmet (for example, the Four Seasons Istanbul at Sultanahmet), but many are reachable via a short tram or taxi ride from Sirkeci. In any case, staying in Sirkeci or adjacent Fatih puts you steps from Istikalet and the old city.
• Best Restaurants and Cafes in the Sirkeci Area: Besides the Orient Express Restaurant inside the station, the Sirkeci neighborhood offers many dining options. Near Eminönü Square (just outside the station), look for fish grills and kebab shops – restaurants like Misircilar in the Spice Bazaar or Hafiz Mustafa (for desserts and Turkish coffee) are very popular. On Hocapaşa Street (south side) you’ll find traditional kahvalti (breakfast) places like Caffè Privato or local canteens serving homemade Ottoman dishes. A few paces north, under the Galata Bridge there are numerous waterfront cafes selling turkish pastries and tea. In general, the area is known for its authentic local flavors (grilled sea bass, lahmacun, baklava) at reasonable prices. One tip: venture a little off the main boulevard, and you can often find a hidden courtyard restaurant or tea garden where few tourists go. The only foreign chains you’ll spot around Sirkeci are the small fast-food kiosks (for example, a McDonald’s at Eminönü tram stop) – otherwise the cuisine is unmistakably Turkish.

The Future of Sirkeci Station: Preservation and Progress

Sirkeci Station today faces the challenge of serving a modern city while preserving its heritage. Even as Marmaray trains continue to pass below, plans are underway to restore and repurpose the old terminal building. In late 2024 the Turkish government unveiled an ambitious “Gateway of Culture and Arts” project. Under this plan, the historic station complex will be rejuvenated by 2026. The disused concourses and offices are slated to become museums and galleries: proposals include a Migration Museum (reflecting Istanbul’s history as a crossroads) and dedicated exhibition spaces for arts and railway heritage. At the same time, the restoration effort will refurbish the architecture: craftsmen will repair the clock towers, clean the stained glass, and replace worn stonework, all guided by historic blueprints.

Balancing this preservation with contemporary needs is key. The station must remain part of daily life. To that end, the transit function will continue: Marmaray is the lifeline for tens of thousands of commuters, so any renovation is designed around keeping trains running. (In fact, Sirkeci’s modern tram line opened in 2024 without disturbing the underground platforms.) Meanwhile, cultural planners are sensitive to authenticity: the new museums will occupy spaces that had been offices and stables, leaving the grand halls intact.

In sum, Sirkeci Station’s future looks to honor its past. Within a few years, visitors should be able to explore art exhibits and historical installations under the same vaulted ceilings where princes once walked. Even as Istanbul grows ever larger, this restored station will endure as a bridge between then and now. By 2026, Sirkeci is planned to stand fully as a “cultural corridor” – a living train station by day and a living museum by night, continuing to tell Istanbul’s story for new generations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Sirkeci Station

What is the new train station in Istanbul? Istanbul’s latest major rail hub is Halkalı (on the European side) and Harem (on the Asian side), which took over as the primary terminals for high-speed and international trains after 2013. In other words, the classic long-distance services no longer use the old Sirkeci or Haydarpaşa terminals. Instead, they run from these newer stations. The new Istanbul Airport (IST) also has its own metro station (line M11) – but note, that is an airport metro stop, not a traditional intercity train station. Meanwhile, for city commuters, the Marmaray project created a modern underground station right at Sirkeci (beneath the old building).

Can you board a train to Europe from Sirkeci today? Not from the old station hall. The historical Sirkeci Station no longer dispatches any long-distance or international trains. All European-bound routes have been shifted to Halkalı since 2013. (For example, the modern “Bosphorus Express” to Bulgaria and the nightly Istanbul–Thessaloniki train now start at Halkalı.) Sirkeci itself now only serves Marmaray commuter trains across the city. In short, you cannot catch an international train out of Sirkeci anymore – instead, its legacy survives in exhibits and tours.

Is Sirkeci Station safe at night? Generally, yes. Sirkeci is in a busy tourist and business district, and the area around Eminönü is well-lit and active until late evening. The Marmaray station is open until around midnight, and nearby hotels and shops mean there are usually people around. As with any urban setting, common-sense precautions (watch your belongings, be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas) are wise. Locals often comment that the station itself, with its historic charm, tends to draw friendly interest rather than trouble. Overall, Sirkeci is considered as safe as the rest of central Istanbul at night.

Is there luggage storage at Sirkeci Station? Unfortunately, there are no official lockers or left-luggage facilities at Sirkeci. The railway museum and station authorities do not provide secure bag storage. If you need to store suitcases, your best options are hotel storage (if you have a reservation) or luggage storage services at larger transport hubs (for example, there are lockers at the Deniz Otobüsü or big intercity bus stations). Some visitors also use private luggage storage apps that work with nearby shops or hotels. But plan ahead: don’t expect to find a coin locker at Sirkeci. Pack lightly or store bags beforehand.

What’s the difference between “Sirkeci” and “Sirkeci (Marmaray)”? This is a common question. “Sirkeci” refers to the historic 1890 terminal building and the neighborhood itself. “Sirkeci (Marmaray)” or sometimes “Sirkeci Station” in timetables refers to the modern underground station serving Marmaray commuter trains. They occupy the same location but are technically distinct: one is the grand old hall (now used as museum/restaurant), and the other is the 21st-century rail terminal below ground. In practice, when you enter the Marmaray station, you’ll descend from the old hall down to the platforms. If you walk into the historic building, you’ll see the museum and Orient Express Restaurant – that part is above the Marmaray tracks. Both share the name “Sirkeci,” but remember that Marmaray trains board in the subway level, not the old hall.

What is the architectural style of Sirkeci Station? Sirkeci is one of the quintessential examples of European Orientalism or “Arabesque Gothic.” It was designed by the German architect August Jasmund, who blended late-Ottoman and European (Art Nouveau/Gothic) influences. The result is an eclectic fusion: for instance, the facade’s pointed horseshoe arches and striped masonry recall Seljuk and Byzantine models, while the ornamental ironwork and layout are very much 19th-century European. Architectural historians often note how the station “melds French Art Nouveau and Ottoman motifs”. In lay terms, it looks like a fairytale Eastern palace built for trains.

What movies were filmed at Sirkeci Station? Several films have used Sirkeci as a location. The most famous is certainly From Russia with Love (1963) – James Bond’s Istanbul scenes were filmed on the platforms and in front of Sirkeci Station. Other international films have shot Istanbul sequences around Eminönü/Sirkeci (for example, The International in 2009 used the city’s transport hubs). In Turkish cinema, Sirkeci occasionally appears as a backdrop in period dramas or thrillers set in Istanbul’s golden age. Even modern TV commercials sometimes feature the station’s grand hall or entrance. While not all of these use the station explicitly by name, Bond fans in particular enjoy recognizing Sirkeci when they watch that classic film or others.

What is there to see inside Sirkeci Station? Even if you skip the museum, Sirkeci has sights worth seeing. Inside the historic building, you should walk through the main waiting hall. Admire the ornate wooden benches, cast-iron pillars, and the colossal stained-glass skylight that paints the floor with colors. Visit the Orient Express Restaurant and peer at the old photographs on the wall (the décor is part-history, part-kitsch). Check out the small shop (if open) that sells nostalgia postcards and railway-themed souvenirs. Of course, don’t miss the Istanbul Railway Museum as detailed above – it is the primary “exhibit” of the station. On the platform level, you can see the sleek Marmaray trains set against the clean new signage. If you time it right, a Marmaray train will coast in silently past the old waiting room, a visual reminder of then vs. now.

Are there restaurants or cafes in Sirkeci Station? Yes. The most notable is the Orient Express Restaurant (on the left as you enter the old hall). It purports to occupy the original station dining room. The restaurant serves Turkish-Mediterranean dishes (salads, kebabs, fish and desserts) and is decorated with framed photos of the station’s past. Reviewers say it’s a fun place to eat in the midst of history (though opinions on the food itself vary). Other than that, there is a small coffee bar/kiosk inside where you can grab espresso or soft drinks. Outside the station, there are numerous cafés: for example, Çınaraltı Tea Garden (by the ferry pier) is famous for Turkish tea and simit bread; Üç Cinci Han is a charming courtyard cafe serving pastries; and of course many bakeries line Atatürk Boulevard. In short, you will not starve – the entire Eminönü district around Sirkeci is a foodie’s haven, from casual doner stands to fish restaurants by the water.

Sirkeci Station vs. Haydarpaşa Station: What’s the difference? Sirkeci (on the European side) and Haydarpaşa (on the Asian side) were once the two grand bookends of Istanbul’s rail system, facing each other across the Bosphorus. Both stations were built in the late Ottoman era in similarly grand styles. Their fates have paralleled each other: both saw their intercity train services suspended in 2013 and are being transformed. However, there are differences. In use today, Sirkeci functions only as part of the city’s commuter network, whereas Haydarpaşa – while closed to trains – still stands on the Asian shore awaiting its own conversion. Haydarpaşa is slated to become part of a university campus and exhibition center, while Sirkeci will become a cultural hub with museums. Architecturally, Sirkeci’s style is “oriental” with a 19th-century flair, whereas Haydarpaşa has a more European beaux-arts character. Both are beloved local landmarks. If you like trains and history, you will want to visit both — on each continent of the city – as independent attractions.

How do I get from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Sirkeci Station? The most common advice is to take the Havaist shuttle bus from IST to the city and then transfer. For example, you can take a Havaist bus that goes to Sultanahmet/Eminönü (check route availability; some go to Sultanahmet Square or Taksim). Once in Eminönü, Sirkeci is just around the corner. Alternatively, Havaist to Taksim followed by the T1 tram line east to Eminönü also works. There is no direct metro line from the airport yet (the new M11 airport metro only goes to Halkalı on the European side). Taxis or ride-shares are convenient but can be expensive in traffic; a taxi ride might cost 20–25 EUR and take 40 minutes in off-peak hours. In all cases, buying a one-way or round-trip Havaist ticket in the airport hall is easy (the desk near the arrivals is staffed 24/7), and it takes you into central Istanbul directly.

How do I get from Sirkeci Station to the Grand Bazaar? It’s very straightforward. You can walk (about 15–20 minutes) or take a short tram ride. If you walk, head north along Mumhane Caddesi or turn east toward Beyazıt Square; the Grand Bazaar gates will be visible. To ride the tram, use the T1 line at Eminönü station (literally in front of Sirkeci’s entrance). Take the T1 eastbound (towards Bağcılar) and get off at “Beyazıt-Kapalı Çarşı” – this stop is right at the New Mosque/Grand Bazaar entrance. The tram ride is just two or three stops and costs only 5–10 lira. Many travelers find the tram easier on hot days or if they have shopping bags.