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.
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
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Bosphorus Sunset or Daytime Yacht Cruise with Snacks & Live Guide
Istanbul: Unlimited Turkey Internet with eSIM Mobile Data Plan
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht
Merkez Hotel Deals
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Everything from the friendly welcome to the clean environment and all the amenities
Reviewed on Nov 12, 2025
Divan Istanbul
Staff
Reviewed on Nov 15, 2025
Divan Istanbul City
Very very nice
Reviewed on Nov 4, 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 Nov 13, 2025
Elite World Grand Istanbul Kucukyali
Everything about the place was great super comfortable beds & pillows rooms were great room service was fast & great 24 hours a day Top notch gym & Turkish bath Everyone at the front desk was always so helpful from Directions to every need
Reviewed on Nov 10, 2025
CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul
Great
Reviewed on Nov 10, 2025
Other neighborhoods 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 Taksim Square and Grand Bazaar, and jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Aksaray Tram Station to see more of the city.
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.
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
Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre and Mecidiyekoy Square 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.
Karaköy
Consider a visit to Galata Tower and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Karaköy. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Karakoy Station or Karakoy Tünel Station.
