Old City
Istanbul
Popular places to visit
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.
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.
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 notable monuments or stunning cathedral to your travel plans.
Basilica Cistern
The “Sunken Palace” is one of the most striking remnants of Byzantine Constantinople and is the largest of hundreds of ancient underground reservoirs in Istanbul.
Things to do
Istanbul: Unlimited Turkey Internet with eSIM Mobile Data Plan
Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive)
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Bosphorus Sunset or Daytime Yacht Cruise with Snacks & Live Guide
Top hotels in Old City
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
The room was excellent. I can’t say enough about the staff. We were Century located near everything within walking distance. We had to stay there two different times and they made us feel very welcome right at home if I ever go back to Turkey, I definitely will stay there again
Reviewed on 2 Nov 2025
Senatus Hotel - Special Class
Great place to stay! Very Clean, close to everything. The restaurant attached was an excellent choice for dinner. The hotel was close to everything, from the port to shopping, sightseeing, and the Blue as well as the Brown Mosques. I highly recommend!
Reviewed on 1 Nov 2025
Seven Hills Hotel - Special Class
The hotel was perfect for our needs. Well located with very friendly and willing staff. We had a generous breakfast included, so we took this on the rooftop, enjoying the incredible views. The room was well appointed with a very comfortable bed. Particular mention to Ozi - for his helpful advice ...
Reviewed on 2 Nov 2025
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
Despite a troubled start, the manager and his team went above and beyond to make sure our stay was nothing short of perfect. My sincere thanks to the hotel for their professionalism and customer focus. The Hotel is superbly fitted out, comfortable and the breakfast range is excellent. I look forward ...
Reviewed on 2 Nov 2025
Recital Hotel
Staff was great, breakfast was decent. The mattress was a bit hard but acceptable, and the hotel was clean. The location was good, close to the tram and attractions.
Reviewed on 30 Oct 2025
Kare Hotel Sultanahmet
Decent hotel at a good price. Very helpful staff in all departments; e.g. Reception and Restaurant. Good location; walking distance to most points of interest and reasonable restaurants. Recommend Ozi Pizza (they do more than pizzas and pasta).
Reviewed on 4 Nov 2025
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 Topkapi Palace.
Sultanahmet
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia – discover Sultanahmet, a destination also famous for its shopping.
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.
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.
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.
Fatih
Enjoy the popular shops in Fatih. Blue Mosque is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Yusufpasa Station to see more of Istanbul.
