Old City Travel Guide
Istanbul
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.
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.
Blue Mosque
Named for its dazzling interior covered in blue tiles, this is a hub of Istanbul's religious life.
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.
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
Nice Hotel perfect area to walk around
Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
Staff were very friendly and helpful. The hotel is lovely and we were upgraded to a beautiful room. The pool was being renovated but I imagine in the summer it’s really nice. Great location to old town Istanbul all within walking distance.
Reviewed on 29 Jan 2026
Recital Hotel
Our room is extremely clean and spacious with a lovely little balcony with views of the Bosphorus
Reviewed on 29 Jan 2026
Seven Hills Hotel - Special Class
Great location. Room spotless and staff couldn’t do enough. Will be going back
Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026
Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul
Beautiful room and amazing view! Staff upgraded us without asking. Highly recommend!
Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026
AJWA Sultanahmet
Very friendly staff!
Reviewed on 31 Jan 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 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.
