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 notable monuments or stunning cathedral 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.
Top hotels in Old City
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Hotel Management & Staff were very courteous and helpful. The Hotel setting was excellent; I sould gladly stay again! Thank you
Reviewed on 25 Oct 2025
Senatus Hotel - Special Class
very good
Reviewed on 19 Oct 2025
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
Great service, great location.
Reviewed on 25 Oct 2025
Seven Hills Hotel - Special Class
This is my favorite place to stay at when visiting Istanbul. I had stayed many times here before and always remain happy with service, room cleanliness, staff etiquette, airport transfer. The restaurant on the rooftop has the best views to Ayasofi and Blue Mosque, the food is great. If I'm coming ...
Reviewed on 23 Oct 2025
Recital Hotel
Amazing room. Excellent value for price. Service superb.
Reviewed on 24 Oct 2025
Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel
Great location, this hotel is within walking distance from Sultanahmet Square where Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are located. The Big Bus departs from this square as well, as everything seems to start from this location. The staff and premises were fantastic, and there are restaurants everywhere ...
Reviewed on 14 Oct 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 Topkapi Palace.
Sultanahmet
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia – discover Sultanahmet, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Eminönü
Known for its breathtaking beach views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Eminönü. Check out top attractions like Grand Bazaar and Eminönü Square, and jump on the metro at Eminonu Station or Beyazit Station to see more of the city.
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.
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.
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.
Old City Travel Guide
- Places of interest
- Hotels in Old City by Star Rating
- Choose Your Old City Hotel Style
- Hotels in top Istanbul neighborhoods
