Found the ultimate hidden view of Istanbul away from the tourist crowds! (Süleymaniye area) ☕🕌
Hey everyone, John here again. Today I decided to escape the massive crowds in Sultanahmet and went on a walk behind the Grand Bazaar towards the Süleymaniye Mosque. If you want to feel the "real" historical Istanbul without the commercial tourist traps, this is the area to go.I randomly wandered into some old, crumbling trading courts (locals call them 'Han'). They look centuries old, and you can see local craftsmen working inside. It felt like stepping back in time.But the best part was the area right behind the Süleymaniye Mosque. There are some local rooftop cafes there. I sat at one, ordered a traditional Turkish coffee, and the view of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus was absolutely incredible—and it cost me less than 3 Euros!I highly recommend spending an afternoon just getting lost in these backstreets. Quick question though: I saw a massive building called "Büyük Valide Han" on the map but the rooftop access seemed closed. Does anyone know if it's still possible to get up there for photos, or is it permanently shut? Cheers!
