Sirkeci Railway Station, also known as Istanbul Railway Station, is a historic terminal located in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey. Situated on the European side of the Bosphorus strait, it stands romantically right beside the Golden Horn, just northwest of Gülhane Park and the iconic Topkapı Palace.

Built in 1890 by the Oriental Railway company, Sirkeci Terminal served as the eastern terminus of the legendary Orient Express. This iconic train once connected Paris and Istanbul, capturing the imagination of travellers worldwide.

Over the years, Sirkeci Terminal has become a symbol of this great city. Its grand architecture and historical significance evoke a sense of nostalgia and adventure.

After years of redundancy and recently undergoing extensive restoration, the station reopened on February 26, 2024, as part of the T6 Sirkeci–Kazlıçeşme Tramway Line and U3 Sirkeci–Kazlıçeşme Rail Line.

The station boasts four platforms (three above ground and one underground) with a total of seven tracks. It once hosted international trains to Bucharest, Sofia, and Belgrade, as well as regional trains to various destinations within Turkey.

As of October 2013, an underground station has connected Sirkeci to the Marmaray commuter rail line, allowing seamless travel under the Bosphorus.

Visiting Sirkeci Railway Station today offers a glimpse into the past, to the golden age of rail travel. While the Orient Express no longer departs from its platforms, the station remains a testament to the romance and adventure associated with long-distance train journeys.

Next time you’re in Istanbul, take the time to explore this lovely station. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a pleasant and interesting destination for the day, this architectural gem offers a real glimpse into the romance and intrigue of late Ottoman Istanbul.

I for one always think of Agatha Christie when I’m sitting in its elegant waiting room, and half expect to see her alighting from a train, bound for the Pera Palas Hotel, where Mata Hari also stayed on occasion along with numerous international spies and diplomats.