Merkez
Istanbul
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.
Hagia Sophia
Once a church, then a Byzantine cathedral, later a mosque and now a monument, this iconic building is a national treasure.
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.
Galata Tower
Istanbul’s medieval lookout point offers panoramic views across city’s historic district and the water of the Golden Horn.
Blue Mosque
The nickname of this 17th-century structure refers to the brilliant color of its tiled interior.
Bosphorus
Explore the great outdoors at Bosphorus, a popular spot to commune with nature in Istanbul. Wander the seaside in this relaxing area.
Things to do
Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Guided Tour w/ Tickets
Bosphorus Explorer: 3-Hour Cruise with Asian Side Visit
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Flexible Combo: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi, Basilica, Blue Mosque
Istanbul: Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise Tour with Audio Guide
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
Merkez Hotel Deals
Elite World Grand Istanbul Kucukyali
Clean room, luxury premises, everything top notch. You are locked into their restaurants though (nothing else near) which are quite pricey.
Reviewed on Jan 29, 2026
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Everything was super perfect
Reviewed on Jan 22, 2026
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
Excellent, service was over expected
Reviewed on Feb 3, 2026
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Staff were fantastic. Always ready to help. Room was clean and bedding extremely comfortable. Location was superb.
Reviewed on Feb 4, 2026
Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina Hotel
This hotel is our favorite and always perfect. Thank you
Reviewed on Jan 24, 2026
CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul
Everything was fantastic.
Reviewed on Jan 26, 2026
Other neighborhoods around Merkez
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.
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 Taksim Square and Grand Bazaar, and jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Aksaray Tram Station to see more of the city.
Beyoğlu
Travelers love Beyoğlu for its popular shops, and you can see more of Istanbul by jumping on the metro at Sishane-Zemin Metro Station or Tophane Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Taksim Square and Galata Tower.
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.
Galata
Spend some time visiting places like Galata Tower while getting to know Galata, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Sishane-Zemin Metro Station or Karakoy Tünel Station to see more of the area.
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.
