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.
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.
Bosphorus
Explore the great outdoors at Bosphorus, a popular spot to commune with nature in Istanbul. Wander the seaside in this relaxing area.
Things to do
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
Istanbul: Dinner Cruise and Entertainment with Private Table
Istanbul: Zipline Adventure with Bosphorus View
Merkez Hotel Deals
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Great hotel, fine dining and spacious room make this one of the best hotels in Istanbul. Security seems a bit too much at first, but you get used to it.
Reviewed on Jan 2, 2026
Recital Hotel
Room is basic but meet the needs. Staff is very helpful
Reviewed on Jan 6, 2026
Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina Hotel
Clean room, great location and staff. Nice NYE celebration. Only complaint is our room was very noisy first and last night of our stay.
Reviewed on Jan 2, 2026
Cityloft 161
Clean nice room
Reviewed on Nov 13, 2025
Glorious Hotel
It was awesome. Adam was a real gentleman, so helpful. My whole family were happy and comfortable. Thank you Adam from the bottom of my heart.
Reviewed on Aug 18, 2022
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
Everything was perfect.
Reviewed on Jan 11, 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
Şişli Mosque and Bomontiada 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.
