Istanbul is one of the most beautiful cities in the world to see from above. Domes and minarets rise over seven hills, ships glide along the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara shines on the horizon. It is no surprise that travellers search for restaurants with a view in Istanbul before they even book their hotel. If you want the most iconic panorama of the Old City, Seven Hills Restaurant in Sultanahmet is the place to go.
Many places in the city have a nice terrace, but very few can show you the landmarks that define Istanbul all at once. When guests ask us for the best view restaurant in Istanbul, they usually want three things: a close view of the historic monuments, a sea view and a comfortable place to enjoy a long meal. Seven Hills brings all three together on one rooftop terrace in the heart of the historic peninsula.
From our terrace, Hagia Sophia stands right in front of you. Its great dome and four minarets look different at every hour of the day: soft and golden in the morning, bright at noon and glowing when the lights come on at night. If you are looking for a restaurant with Hagia Sophia view, few tables in the city are this close.
Turn your head and the six minarets of the Blue Mosque fill the other side of the skyline. Sunset is the most popular time on the terrace, when the call to prayer echoes between the two monuments and the sky turns pink over the Sea of Marmara. As a restaurant with Blue Mosque view, Seven Hills is a favourite stop for photographers and couples.
Behind the monuments, the view opens up to the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara, with the Asian side of Istanbul across the water. Watching ships pass while you dine is part of what makes this Sultanahmet rooftop restaurant unique.
A great view deserves great food. Our kitchen serves fish caught daily in the Sea of Marmara, grilled meats, mezes and classic Turkish dishes. In the morning you can enjoy a traditional Turkish village breakfast on the terrace until 12:00 noon.
Book ahead: Terrace tables at sunset are the most popular. Reserve online and mention that you would like a view table.
Come early for photos: Arrive about an hour before sunset to see the monuments in daylight and then lit up at night.
Combine it with sightseeing: Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern are all a short walk away. See how to find us.
Istanbul has many restaurants with a view, but only a few let you see Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the sea from the same table. For a meal you will remember long after your trip, visit Seven Hills Restaurant in Sultanahmet. Browse our photo gallery or read more on our blog.