Merkez
Popular places to visit
Taksim Square
You can learn about the local history of Istanbul during your trip to a well-known site such as 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.
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.
Hagia Sophia
Once a church, then a Byzantine cathedral, later a mosque and now a monument, this iconic building is a national treasure.
Topkapi Palace
The official residence of the Ottoman sultans for about four centuries is now accessible to the public and home to sacred relics.
Things to do
Istanbul Historical Tour with Guide, Lunch and Transfers
Monuments of Ottoman Empire Tour - Skip the Line Tickets
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
2-Day Tour of Cappadocia, with Flights & Accommodation
Istanbul Turkish Bath in Ottoman Style at Hammam with Drinks
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar - Half-Day Small Group Tour
Top hotels in Merkez
Reviewed on 4 Apr 2024
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2024
Reviewed on 4 Jun 2024
Reviewed on 4 Jun 2024
Reviewed on 1 Jun 2024
Reviewed on 30 May 2024
Other neighbourhoods around Merkez
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 Grand Bazaar and Blue Mosque, and jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Aksaray Tram Station to see more of the city.
Fatih
Enjoy the popular shops in Fatih. Grand Bazaar is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Yusufpasa Station to see more of Istanbul.
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.
Şişli
Travellers love Şişli for its popular shops, and you can see more of Istanbul by jumping on the metro at Sisli Station or Osmanbey Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre and Mecidiyekoy Square.
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.
- Blue Mosque
- Hagia Sophia
- Topkapi Palace
- Bosphorus Bridge
- Sultanahmet Square
- Basilica Cistern
- Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center
- Bahçeşehir Gölet Park
- Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre
- Florya Beach
- Ataturk Olympic Stadium
- Egyptian Bazaar
- Medicana International Istanbul Hospital
- Istinye Park