Old City Travel Guide
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 stunning cathedral to your travel plans.
Eminönü Square
Learn about the local history of Istanbul with a stop at Eminönü Square. Discover the area's fascinating museums and shops.
Top hotels in Old City
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Very convenient for sight seeing - major ones within walking distance.
Reviewed on 16 Apr 2026
Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul
Fer Hotel
So happy with our stay at Fer. The staff were wonderful from the start and our room was all set up for us with an extra bed as requested. Breakfast was delicious and you cannot bet the location as its such a central hotel.
Reviewed on 14 Apr 2026
Carina Gold Hotel and Restaurant
Our stay was excellent. The staff was efficient and helpful, especially Shams and Burhan were very helpfull.
Reviewed on 16 Apr 2026
Seven Hills Hotel - Special Class
Location and rooftop terrace view are the biggest selling points for this hotel. Their Turkish breakfast is incredible (but pricey), and their dinner menu is very pricey, but the views from the terrace cannot be beat and guests get full access for great photos of both Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. ...
Reviewed on 14 Apr 2026
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
Clean comfortable rooms very friendly staff lovely spa .. breakfast service decent Eat out elsewhere in the evening
Reviewed on 15 Apr 2026
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 Blue Mosque and Taksim Square, 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.
