Old City Travel Guide
Istanbul
Popular places to visit
Blue Mosque
The nickname of this 17th-century structure refers to the brilliant color of its tiled interior.
Hagia Sophia
Once a church, then a Byzantine cathedral, later a mosque and now a monument, this iconic building is a national treasure.
Grand Bazaar
Enter the maze of shop-lined streets in one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world to browse hundreds of thousands of hand-crafted objects.
Topkapi Palace
The official residence of the Ottoman sultans for about four centuries is now accessible to the public and home to sacred relics.
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.
Basilica Cistern
The “Sunken Palace” is one of the most striking remnants of Byzantine Constantinople and is the largest of hundreds of ancient underground reservoirs in Istanbul.
Things to do
Istanbul Hop On Hop Off Bus\24 Hours Ticket
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive)
Open-Top Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour in Istanbul
Dolmabahce Palace & Harem Skip-the-Line Entry & Audio Guide
Top hotels in Old City
Recital Hotel
Brilliant hotel n no issues n reception very helpful
Reviewed on 28 Dec 2025
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
The personal was amazing.The place is located on the middle of the old town. Wonderful place and views.The servers were awesome.The food was great.
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel
A standard room is so small, especially the bathroom is so tiny. I am unable to pretend it is a 5 star hotel. Valet parking staff is not always on duty.
Reviewed on 25 Dec 2025
Hotel Amira Istanbul
Great, spacious room. Staff were superb. Lovely view from the rooftop (no food/drinks service however during winter), and a fantastic location near the major sights of Sultanahmet. The breakfast spread was generous with a selection of Western and Turkish options.
Reviewed on 4 Jan 2026
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
The hotel located near the harbour. Beautiful place. Easy to get from old city. The service is amazing
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Niles Hotel Istanbul - Special Class
The rooms were clean. Receptionists were so friendly and respectful. The only problem was room service in the morning. They would try to enter to the room while we're sleeping which gave a sense of lack of privacy. They also don't understand english which was not easy to deal with. It would be better ...
Reviewed on 22 Dec 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 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.
