Old City
Istanbul
Popular places to visit
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.
Topkapi Palace
The official residence of the Ottoman sultans for about four centuries is now accessible to the public and home to sacred relics.
Sultanahmet Square
You can find out about the history of Istanbul with a stop at Sultanahmet Square. Add the area's shops or notable monuments to your travel plans.
Eminönü Square
Learn about the local history of Istanbul with a stop at Eminönü Square. Discover the area's fascinating museums and stunning cathedral.
Things to do
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Guided Tour w/ Tickets
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
2 Day All Inclusive Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul with Optional Balloon Flight
Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Turkish Night Show
Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry & Audio Guide
Top hotels in Old City
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Nice Hotel perfect area to walk around
Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026
Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul
Beautiful room and amazing view! Staff upgraded us without asking. Highly recommend!
Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
The housekeeping service at this hotel is absolutely exceptional. She truly goes far and beyond to keep the room perfectly organized, fresh, and spotless. I have honestly never experienced such a wonderful housekeeping service anywhere else. The entire staff is very, very, very kind, welcoming, and ...
Reviewed on 5 Feb 2026
Recital Hotel
Loved my room with small balcony overlooking the sea of Marmara. Staff was lovely and helpful. Would stay again
Reviewed on 1 Feb 2026
Seven Hills Hotel - Special Class
Great location. Room spotless and staff couldn’t do enough. Will be going back
Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026
AJWA Sultanahmet
Very friendly staff!
Reviewed on 31 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Old City
Sirkeci
Travellers choose Sirkeci for its ample dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Sirkeci Station or Eminonu Station and check out top sights like Grand Bazaar.
Sultanahmet
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Hagia Sophia to Blue Mosque – discover Sultanahmet, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Galata
Travellers choose Galata for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Sishane-Zemin Metro Station or Karakoy Tünel Station and check out top sights like Galata Tower.
Karaköy
Spend some time visiting places like Galata Tower while getting to know Karaköy, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Karakoy Station or Karakoy Tünel 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.
Beyoğlu
Enjoy the popular shops in Beyoğlu. Taksim Square is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Sishane-Zemin Metro Station or Tophane Station to see more of Istanbul.
