Old City
Istanbul
Popular places to visit
Blue Mosque
Named for its dazzling interior covered in blue tiles, this is a hub of Istanbul's religious life.
Hagia Sophia
A world famous monument to the ever-changing history of Istanbul, and one of the largest churches in the world.
Grand Bazaar
Visit one of the biggest and oldest covered markets in the world, a real taste (and smell and sound!) of the diversity that Turkey has to offer.
Topkapi Palace
Stately home to the Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years with an array of Turkish design and foreign art.
Sultanahmet Square
You can find out about the history of Istanbul with a stop at Sultanahmet Square. Add the area's shops or notable monuments to your travel plans.
Basilica Cistern
'The Sunken Palace' is the biggest of the hundreds of underground reservoirs underneath the streets of Istanbul, dating from Byzantine Constantinople.
Things to do
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Istanbul: Full-Day Highlights Tour with Guide and Lunch
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Turkish Coffee on Sand Workshop: Fortune Telling & Gift Set
Turkish Food Night and Rooftop Experience Istanbul
Top hotels in Old City
Recital Hotel
Brilliant hotel n no issues n reception very helpful
Reviewed on 28 Dec, 2025
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Everything
Reviewed on 2 Jan, 2026
Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel
A standard room is so small, especially the bathroom is so tiny. I am unable to pretend it is a 5 star hotel. Valet parking staff is not always on duty.
Reviewed on 25 Dec, 2025
Hotel Amira Istanbul
Great, spacious room. Staff were superb. Lovely view from the rooftop (no food/drinks service however during winter), and a fantastic location near the major sights of Sultanahmet. The breakfast spread was generous with a selection of Western and Turkish options.
Reviewed on 4 Jan, 2026
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
Everything was great!
Reviewed on 1 Jan, 2026
Niles Hotel Istanbul - Special Class
The rooms were clean. Receptionists were so friendly and respectful. The only problem was room service in the morning. They would try to enter to the room while we're sleeping which gave a sense of lack of privacy. They also don't understand english which was not easy to deal with. It would be better ...
Reviewed on 22 Dec, 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Old City
Sirkeci
Travellers choose Sirkeci for its ample dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Sirkeci Station or Eminonu Station and check out top sights like Grand Bazaar.
Sultanahmet
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia – discover Sultanahmet, a destination also famous for its shopping.
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.
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
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.
