Old City Travel Guide
Istanbul
Visit Old City
Popular places to visit
Hagia Sophia
A world famous monument to the ever-changing history of Istanbul, and one of the largest churches in the world.
Blue Mosque
Named for its dazzling interior covered in blue tiles, this is a hub of Istanbul's religious life.
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.
Sultanahmet Square
Find out about the history of Sultanahmet Square, one of the top monuments in Istanbul. Add the area's notable monuments or shops to your travel plans.
Topkapi Palace
Stately home to the Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years with an array of Turkish design and foreign art.
Eminönü Square
Learn about the local history of Istanbul with a stop at Eminönü Square. Discover the area's fascinating museums and stunning cathedral.
Top hotels in Old City
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
"This is a beautiful hotel. I highly recommend it for your stay in Istanbul. All the staff from the people at the front desk to the cleaning crew and the dining area staff are all so caring and friendly. It is conveniently located to the Tram stop, Grand Bazaar and shopping areas. We’ve stayed there ..."
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul
"Great staff, amazing view from the rooms and conveniently located in Sultan Ahmet square area. Breakfast wasn’t spectacular but was filling. Overall a great place to stay."
Reviewed on 8 Jun 2026
The Lola Hotel
"this is very bad experience and staff are very route and inexperienced and can’t speak english"
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Carina Gold Hotel and Restaurant
"Great location, clean property, and very friendly staff! Breakfast buffet had many options and coffee was delicious. My husband and I really enjoyed our stay here and felt safe! Highly recommend."
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
"The staff was incredibly conscientious and cordial. The pool is gorgeous and the hotel overall is a wonderful experience."
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
AJWA Sultanahmet
"Great location, close to Sultanahmet Square and the Blue Mosque. The rooms are amazing. Breakfast here is wonderful. Staff is very nice!"
Reviewed on 1 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Old City
Sultanahmet
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia – discover Sultanahmet, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Taksim
Enjoy the popular shops in Taksim. Taksim Square is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Taksim Station or Findikli Station to see more of Istanbul.
Kadıköy
You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Kadıköy. Spend some time visiting top spots like Bosphorus, and catch the metro at Bahariye Station or Acibadem Station to see more of the area.
Beşiktaş
Spend some time visiting places like Bosphorus while getting to know Beşiktaş, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Nispetiye Station or Etiler 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 Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Aksaray Tram Station to see more of the city.
