Merkez Travel Guide
Istanbul
Popular places to visit
Taksim Square
You can learn about the local history of Istanbul during your trip to a well-known site such as Taksim Square. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its fascinating museums.
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.
Galata Tower
Istanbul’s medieval lookout point offers panoramic views across city’s historic district and the water of the Golden Horn.
Sultanahmet Square
Find out about the history of Sultanahmet Square, one of the top monuments in Istanbul. Add the area's shops or stunning cathedral to your travel plans.
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.
Things to do
Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive)
Istanbul Hop On Hop Off Bus\24 Hours Ticket
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket and Audio Guide
Istanbul: Princess Island Büyükada Tour with Island Vehicle
Top hotels in Merkez
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
We had a wonderful stay at Swissôtel The Bosphorus. Everything exceeded our expectations. The rooms were spotless—some of the cleanest we’ve experienced—and very comfortable. The housekeeping team truly does an outstanding job. The spa was absolutely amazing—relaxing, well-maintained, and a perfect ...
Reviewed on 1 May 2026
Elite World Istanbul Taksim
The hotel looks great esthetically. The rooms are much smaller than what the pictures make them seem. Very dated. The AC didnt work consistently it would cool for 5 mins and blow warm humid air The rest of the day. No storage in the room for long stays. The showering amenities like shampoo are really ...
Reviewed on 27 Apr 2026
Titanic City Taksim
Excellent Hotel, Excellent Buffet Breakfast! Excellent Hotel Prices
Reviewed on 2 May 2026
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Very nice stayed here several w
Reviewed on 2 May 2026
Hampton by Hilton Istanbul Airport, Arnavutkoy
The breakfast is fresh and varied. The staff is very attentive.
Reviewed on 2 May 2026
Carina Gold Hotel and Restaurant
Clean rooms first room seemed small then expected however my second night it was bigger great staff great hotel location is so close to everything Burhan manager is great
Reviewed on 29 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Merkez
Fatih
Enjoy the popular shops in Fatih. Blue Mosque is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Yusufpasa Station to see more of Istanbul.
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 Galata Tower and Blue Mosque, 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. Galata Tower is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Sishane-Zemin Metro Station or Tophane Station to see more of Istanbul.
Şişli
Travellers love Şişli for its popular shops, and you can see more of Istanbul by jumping on the metro at Sisli Station or Osmanbey Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Şişli Mosque and Bomontiada.
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.
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.
