Merkez
Istanbul
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.
Hagia Sophia
Once a church, then a Byzantine cathedral, later a mosque and now a monument, this iconic building is a national treasure.
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.
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.
Things to do
Istanbul: Unlimited Turkey Internet with eSIM Mobile Data Plan
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
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Tour With Turkish Night Show
Top hotels in Merkez
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Everything from the friendly welcome to the clean environment and all the amenities
Reviewed on 12 Nov 2025
Divan Istanbul
Staff
Reviewed on 15 Nov 2025
Divan Istanbul City
Very very nice
Reviewed on 4 Nov 2025
InterContinental Istanbul by IHG
Magnificent views of the Bosphorus from InterContinental Istanbul's rooftop City Lights Bar and restaurant - not to be missed. The bedrooms are a good size and were spotlessly clean with a very comfortable bed. Great location near Takism square and metro
Reviewed on 13 Nov 2025
Elite World Grand Istanbul Kucukyali
Room and staff excellent
Reviewed on 15 Nov 2025
CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul
Great
Reviewed on 10 Nov 2025
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 Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, 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. Blue Mosque 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 Şişli Mosque and Bomontiada.
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.
Merkez
- Taksim Square
- Hagia Sophia
- Blue Mosque
- Grand Bazaar
- Topkapi Palace
- Sultanahmet Square
- Bosphorus Bridge
- Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center
- Bahçeşehir Gölet Park
- Florya Beach
- Basilica Cistern
- Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre
- Istinye Park
- Gülhane Park
- Ülker Stadium
- Tupras Stadium
