[2025 Istanbul Attraction] Travel Guide for Cistern of Theodosius (Updated Oct)

Hello 🌞 I'm very happy that the article I posted about my trip to Turkey has received a much bigger response than I expected 🇹🇷 I received a lot of questions, and one of them was, "Can I go to both Istanbul and Cappadocia in one trip?" So I wrote an article about it this time. First of all, there are no direct flights from Japan to Cappadocia, so I think you will go to Cappadocia via Istanbul, so it is possible to go to both at the same time. When I visited last year, I took a relaxed schedule, so I spent a lot of time in Istanbul, but if you are mainly going to Cappadocia, you can transfer to a flight to Cappadocia from Istanbul, or you can stay in Istanbul for 3 nights and Cappadocia for 2 nights. As for Cappadocia, I was lucky to see hot air balloons, but it seems that the probability of them flying is low, so if you absolutely want to see hot air balloons, I recommend staying in Cappadocia for more than 3 nights! (I heard that the balloons didn't fly for about three days after the day I saw them, and my friend returned without seeing them 😿) Also, you can't ride the balloon on the day you move to Cappadocia, so you need to stay at least one night. However, there are only a few things you can do in Cappadocia other than the balloon, so many people join the Red Tour or Green Tour after the tour. With this tour, you can cover almost all the tourist sites in Cappadocia in one go, so if you set aside more time for the balloon ride, you might end up with nothing to do if you miss out on seeing everything... This is all about luck 🥹 Balloon tours vary depending on the season, but they cost from 15,000 to 50,000 yen. Green tours and red tours are around 8,000 to 10,000 yen. Balloon tours range from cheap to expensive, but if you go too cheap, you may fly quite far from the city center and there may only be a few balloons around, so it might be a good idea to carefully consider the price and reviews ✨———————————————————————————▪︎Tao/Current university student/Hobby is traveling abroad/Studying abroad in three countries: Canada, the Philippines, and Dubai#Overseas travel trip #Turkey #Istanbul #Turkey trip

Beneath the bustling streets of Istanbul, the Şerefiye Cistern, also known as the Theodosius Cistern, quietly guards centuries of history. It is located between several historic neighborhoods, just steps away from the Grand Bazaar. Built in the mid-5th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Theodosius II, this cistern originally supplied water to the palace complex, showcasing extraordinary engineering and the strength and wisdom of Istanbul. After its restoration in 2010, it has become a place where art, history, and technology converge. Marble columns, the echoing sound of water, and tranquil corridors, combined with Turkey’s first 360-degree projection mapping show, offer an immersive experience. Compared to the famous Basilica Cistern, this site maintains a relatively quiet atmosphere. Come and experience this blend of tranquility and history!

Sultanahmet Square: Where Empires Meet Eternity Sultanahmet Square, also known as the Hippodrome of Constantinople, is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, steeped in history and cultural significance. Located in the heart of the old city, this vibrant square was once the social and political center of the Byzantine Empire and later the Ottoman Empire. Today, it remains a must-visit destination for tourists exploring Istanbul’s rich heritage. Originally built in 203 AD by Emperor Septimius Severus and expanded by Constantine the Great, the Hippodrome was a grand arena for chariot races, public gatherings, and imperial ceremonies. The rectangular layout of the square, though no longer a racetrack, still echoes its ancient glory. Visitors can marvel at its well-preserved monuments, including the **Obelisk of Theodosius**, a 3,500-year-old Egyptian obelisk brought from Karnak, the **Serpentine Column** from Delphi, and the **Walled Obelisk** built by Byzantine emperors. These relics offer a glimpse into the square’s past as a stage for grand spectacles. Surrounded by architectural masterpieces like the **Hagia Sophia**, **Blue Mosque**, and **Topkapi Palace**, Sultanahmet Square is a gateway to Istanbul’s cultural treasures. The area buzzes with energy, with street vendors, guided tours, and the scent of Turkish street food filling the air. The square’s beautifully landscaped gardens and benches make it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a casual traveler, Sultanahmet Square captivates with its blend of ancient relics, stunning architecture, and lively ambiance. A visit here is a journey through time, connecting you to the legacy of empires and the vibrant pulse of modern Istanbul. #thingstodo #istanbul #citydaytours #myitinerary #trip

My 8-day trip to Istanbul was amazing! I explored stunning places like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar. Walking along the Bosphorus and trying delicious Turkish food—like kebabs and baklava—was unforgettable. I also took a ferry to the Asian side and enjoyed the vibrant culture. The city’s mix of history and modern life made every day special. I’d love to go back someday.