Merkez
Istanbul
Popular places to visit
Taksim Square
See historical monuments, attend performing arts shows and discover a lively shopping and dining scene in the heart of modern Istanbul.
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.
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
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
Istanbul: Zipline Adventure with Bosphorus View
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar - Half-Day Small Group Tour
Merkez Hotel Deals
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
Everything was great
Reviewed on Feb 25, 2026
Çırağan Hotel Bosphorus
A
Reviewed on Mar 9, 2026
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
A
Reviewed on Mar 5, 2026
CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul
Room 1804 I had a mixed experience during my recent stay at the CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul. There were several highlights, but one persistent issue significantly impacted the stay. The Highlights Outstanding Service: The staff were truly wonderful. From the moment we arrived, everyone was ...
Reviewed on Mar 1, 2026
Elite World Grand Istanbul Kucukyali
Always happy to stay here, staff never fails me, always go above and beyond, the fact that it was Ramadan they still came around and gave us water day and night with a little snack. Very caring and considerate. Thank you. I am now a member ☺️
Reviewed on Mar 3, 2026
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Very good location and very friendly staff
Reviewed on Mar 8, 2026
Other neighborhoods around Merkez
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.
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
Travelers love Beyoğlu for its popular shops, and you can see more of Istanbul by jumping on the metro at Sishane-Zemin Metro Station or Tophane Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Taksim Square and Galata Tower.
Şişli
Bomontiada and Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre are top sights in Şişli, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Sisli Station or Osmanbey Station to see more sights in the area.
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.
Taksim
Major tourist hub, Taksim Square boasts a lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants, shops, and grand hotels. Explore İstiklal Caddesi, ride the nostalgic tram, and visit iconic landmarks like the Republic Monument and Taksim Mosque.
