Where Can You Go From Sirkeci Station?
Sirkeci Railway Station is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul. It was once the final stop of the world-famous Orient Express, connecting Paris and Istanbul. It was built during the Ottoman Empire. This beautiful station became a symbol of luxury travel between Europe and the East.
Today, Sirkeci still welcomes visitors with its nostalgic charm and busy transport links. Many travelers start their sightseeing tours here before exploring the old city. This guide will help you learn what to see at Sirkeci, where to go from here, and how to enjoy your visit to the fullest.
The Story Of Sirkeci Station
When Was Sirkeci Station Built?
Sirkeci Station opened in 1890. It was designed by German architect August Jasmund and quickly became one of the most elegant buildings in Istanbul. The design mixes European and Oriental styles. When you visit, look for the pointed arches, colorful tiles, and stained glass windows — they reflect both East and West cultures beautifully.
What Made It Famous?
Sirkeci was once the final stop of the Orient Express, the luxury train that carried travelers from Paris to Istanbul. The journey was legendary — full of mystery, romance, and adventure. Many famous writers described it in their books. Agatha Christie even wrote Murder on the Orient Express after staying at the nearby Pera Palace Hotel.
At that time, Sirkeci wasn’t just a train station. For many Europeans, it was the very first glimpse of the East — a place filled with new sounds, colors, and scents.
Sirkeci Station Today
Istanbul Railway Museum
Inside the old station building, you can visit the Istanbul Railway Museum, opened in 2005. It displays more than 300 objects from the history of Turkish railways — old tickets, photos, silver dining sets from trains, and uniforms worn by railway workers. The museum is small but very charming. It’s open from Tuesday to Saturday, and entrance is free.
Orient Express Restaurant
Next to the waiting hall, the Orient Express Restaurant keeps the station’s old atmosphere alive. In the past, it served elite travelers from Europe. Today, anyone can stop by to enjoy delicious Turkish dishes in a place full of history.
It’s a great stop before joining the Istanbul Combo: City Highlights & Bosphorus Cruise tour that starts nearby.
Cultural Events
From time to time, the station also hosts art exhibitions, music shows, and even whirling dervish performances. These events bring together Istanbul’s railway heritage and its modern cultural life.
Where Can You Go From Sirkeci Station?
Although Sirkeci Station no longer serves international or long-distance trains, it still connects to many important routes inside Istanbul. You can travel across the city by Marmaray Line, which runs from Halkali on the European side to Gebze on the Asian side, passing under the Bosphorus through an underwater tunnel.
If you want to travel to other Turkish cities such as Ankara, Izmir, or Edirne, you can first take the Marmaray from Sirkeci to Halkali Station and then board a high-speed or intercity train (YHT) from there.
This makes Sirkeci a convenient starting point even for longer journeys across Turkey.
Contact us to plan your trip across Turkey. You can join a weekly Turkey tour that includes a guided visit to Istanbul, where you’ll explore Sirkeci Station and other landmarks in comfort with professional guides.
What To Do Around Sirkeci?
Explore The Old City
Sirkeci is in the heart of the Istanbul Old City. You can easily walk to Gulhane Park, Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar. It’s also close to the Sultanahmet Square, where you can see Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.
Enjoy The Architecture
Even if you’re not taking a train, go inside and look around the station hall. The stained glass windows, wooden details, and stone arches make it one of Istanbul’s most photogenic spots.
Take a moment to imagine how it looked when elegant travelers stepped off the Orient Express after their long journey from Europe.
Visit Nearby Cafes And Shops
The narrow streets around Sirkeci are filled with small cafes, bookstores, and souvenir shops. Grab a glass of Turkish tea, listen to the city sounds, and watch the trams pass by before walking down to the Bosphorus.
Travel Tips For Visitors
- Bring your Istanbulkart – it works on trams, ferries, and trains.
- Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
- The Railway Museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
- Check the Marmaray schedule before traveling to the Asian side.
For a deeper experience, join a Best of Istanbul Tour starting from Sirkeci.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Sirkeci Station Still Have International Trains?
No. International trains no longer depart from here, but Sirkeci connects to many local lines across Istanbul.
Can I Cross To The Asian Side From Sirkeci?
Yes! Take the Marmaray train or a ferry from Eminonu Pier. Both offer fast and beautiful rides between continents.
Is The Museum Free?
Yes, entrance to the Istanbul Railway Museum is completely free.
Is Sirkeci Safe At Night?
Yes. The area is central, lively, and generally safe. It’s surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and transport stations.
Sirkeci Station is more than just a railway terminal — it’s a piece of Istanbul’s soul. It tells the story of how the city connected East and West, old and new, past and present. Start your Istanbul adventure here, take the Marmaray across the continents, or explore the nearby landmarks on foot.
If you want to discover the city in a more personal way, contact us to book your private guided tour and turn your Istanbul trip into an unforgettable story.