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.
Topkapi Palace
Stately home to the Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years with an array of Turkish design and foreign art.
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.
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
"It was just the perfect location and amenities for an old town stay in ancient Constantinople 😁"
Reviewed on 23 Jun 2026
Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul
"Great location"
Reviewed on 22 Jun 2026
The Lola Hotel
"We had a fantastic stay at this hotel in Istanbul. The location was excellent, making it easy to explore the city’s main attractions, restaurants, and shops. The staff were incredibly welcoming, professional, and always willing to help with any questions or requests. Our room was spotless, comfortable, ..."
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Armada Istanbul Old City Hotel
"Same breakfast everyday, clean room but limited amenities, laundry is overpriced. Restaurant menu is mediocre and overpriced. Bathroom shower poor set up, water overflows to the bathroom floor outside of the shower. Staff was ok."
Reviewed on 17 Jun 2026
Carina Gold Hotel and Restaurant
"Ridvan and all the rest of the staff were amazingly attentive to our needs, very hospitable. The hotel is located on quiet street and had easy access to touristic sites and public transport. Ridvan, thank you for the tram card, map orientation and attention."
Reviewed on 23 Jun 2026
Four - G Hotel Premium
"Ubicación excelente, habitación modernas e impecables , el desayuno excelente , limpieza muy buena. Todo el personal muy amable y siempre predispuesto a ayudar. Mi segunda vez en Estambul, este hotel superó mis expectativas. Gracias a todos"
Reviewed on 19 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.
Büyükada
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.
