Old City Travel Guide
Istanbul
Popular places to visit
Hagia Sophia
Once a church, then a Byzantine cathedral, later a mosque and now a monument, this iconic building is a national treasure.
Blue Mosque
The nickname of this 17th-century structure refers to the brilliant color of its tiled interior.
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 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 notable monuments.
Things to do
Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket
Istanbul Hop On Hop Off Bus\24 Hours Ticket
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive)
Best of Istanbul 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Top hotels in Old City
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Great location the best service highly recommend great everything!!
Reviewed on 24 Feb 2026
Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul
Staff is super professional and kind! Both in the breakfast room as well as in the reception! Room was incredibly beautiful with a stunning view of Sultanahmet! The rooftop restaurant where the breakfast is served it’s breathtaking! The hotel is located near everything you need and very close to ...
Reviewed on 24 Feb 2026
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
Staff were marvellous. Rooms were good. Breakfast adequate.
Reviewed on 20 Feb 2026
Seven Hills Hotel - Special Class
Room was small but clean and functional. The staff is friendly and helpful, English speaking. The location is priceless.
Reviewed on 23 Feb 2026
Recital Hotel
Staff was extremely nice and helpful! Plenty of space in the room. Great proximity to tourist sites.
Reviewed on 15 Feb 2026
Armada Istanbul Old City Hotel
Clean rooms, great staff, great breakfast, great location
Reviewed on 21 Feb 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.
