European Side
Travel Guide





Visit European Side
Where to stay in European Side

Sultanahmet
Discover the charm of old Istanbul in this working-class district, featuring narrow streets with tightly packed apartment buildings. Explore historic sites like Topkapı Palace and Hagia Sophia, or indulge in diverse cuisines, all easily accessible by tramway.

Taksim
Major tourist hub, Taksim Square boasts a lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants, shops, and grand hotels. Explore İstiklal Caddesi, ride the nostalgic tram, and visit iconic landmarks like the Republic Monument and Taksim Mosque.

Istanbul City Center
Known for its charming cafes and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Istanbul City Center. Check out top attractions like Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Aksaray Tram Station to see more of the city.

Beşiktaş
Scenic views of the Bosphorus strait and historic sites like Dolmabahçe Palace await in this bustling financial center. Enjoy modern shopping malls, diverse dining options, and easy access to ferries and metro lines for seamless exploration.

Fatih
Explore historic libraries and diverse cuisines in this area, home to Istanbul University and the Orthodox Christian Patriarchate. Visit iconic sights like Topkapı Palace and Hagia Sophia, and discover what's nearby via the tramway from Sirkeci to Aksaray.

Şişli
Şişli Mosque and Bomontiada are top sights in Şişli, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Sisli Station or Osmanbey Station to see more sights in the area.

YOTELAIR Istanbul Airport AIRSIDE
Reviewed on Jul 23, 2025

YOTEL Istanbul Airport LANDSIDE, City Entrance
Reviewed on Jul 23, 2025

The Grand Tarabya Managed by Accor
Reviewed on Jul 20, 2025

G Tower Residences
Reviewed on Jul 12, 2025

Grace Of Golden Stay Suit Taksim
Reviewed on Jun 11, 2025

Somerset Maslak Istanbul
Reviewed on Jun 18, 2025
Popular places to visit

Taksim Square
You can learn about the local history of Istanbul when you make a stop at a well-known site like Taksim Square. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its fascinating museums.

Blue Mosque
The nickname of this 17th-century structure refers to the brilliant color of its tiled interior.

Hagia Sophia
Once a church, then a Byzantine cathedral, later a mosque and now a monument, this iconic building is a national treasure.

Sultanahmet Square
Find out about the history of Sultanahmet Square, one of the top monuments in Istanbul. Add the area's notable monuments or shops to your travel plans.

Galata Tower
Istanbul’s medieval lookout point offers panoramic views across city’s historic district and the water of the Golden Horn.

Grand Bazaar
Enter the maze of shop-lined streets in one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world to browse hundreds of thousands of hand-crafted objects.
Things to do

Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table

Istanbul Highlights: Small-Group Tour with a Local Expert

Istanbul: Full-Day Highlights Tour with Guide and Lunch

Istanbul: Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Sunset Option

Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar Tour
