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 stunning cathedral 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 shops.
Things to do
Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive)
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Istanbul Hop On Hop Off Bus\24 Hours Ticket
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket
Istanbul Highlights! Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı and More!
Top hotels in Old City
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Our room and property is very clean. Staff is very friendly. And the location is excellent.
Reviewed on 6 Apr 2026
Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul
Fer Hotel
Amazing stay at FER over he last five days. Really helpful staff and delicious food.
Reviewed on 4 Apr 2026
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
Our room was outstanding with plenty of space, kept very clean, and stylish furnishings. The hotel restaurant was great, food was very good and the wait staff friendly, professional, and fun. I would definately stay there again
Reviewed on 10 Apr 2026
Seven Hills Hotel - Special Class
Room is as big as picture looks like. But the staff is very good and helpful
Reviewed on 10 Apr 2026
Carina Gold Hotel and Restaurant
Excellent room , great staff
Reviewed on 4 Apr 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 Blue Mosque and Taksim Square, 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.
