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.
Blue Mosque
The nickname of this 17th-century structure refers to the brilliant color of its tiled interior.
Galata Tower
Istanbul’s medieval lookout point offers panoramic views across city’s historic district and the water of the Golden Horn.
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 Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
Bosphorus Explorer: 3-Hour Cruise with Asian Side Visit
Istanbul: Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise Tour with Audio Guide
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar - Half-Day Small Group Tour
Kumkapi Hotel Deals
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Incredible staff
Reviewed on Jan 10, 2026
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
This was a beautiful property and so close to everything I wanted to see. The room was quite large and beautiful.
Reviewed on Jan 11, 2026
Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina Hotel
Clean room, great location and staff. Nice NYE celebration. Only complaint is our room was very noisy first and last night of our stay.
Reviewed on Jan 2, 2026
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Location was amazing! You can walk everywhere or take the tram. Plus staff was really nice.
Reviewed on Jan 14, 2026
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
Cozy and clean room and upgrade
Reviewed on Jan 16, 2026
Rotta Hotel İstanbul
Breakfast was ok, should have a better coffee machine and juice.
Reviewed on Jan 11, 2026
Other neighborhoods around Kumkapi
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.
Sirkeci
You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Sirkeci. Spend some time visiting top spots like Grand Bazaar, and catch the metro at Sirkeci Station or Eminonu Station to see more of the area.
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.
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.
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.
Karaköy
Consider a visit to Galata Tower and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Karaköy. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Karakoy Station or Karakoy Tünel Station.
