Old City
Istanbul
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.
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.
Blue Mosque
Named for its dazzling interior covered in blue tiles, this is a hub of Istanbul's religious life.
Topkapi Palace
Stately home to the Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years with an array of Turkish design and foreign art.
Sultanahmet Square
You can find out about the history of Istanbul with a visit to Sultanahmet Square. Add the area's notable monuments or shops to your travel plans.
Eminönü Square
Learn about the local history of Istanbul when you take a trip to Eminönü Square. Discover the area's fascinating museums and notable monuments.
Things to do
Bosphorus Explorer: 3-Hour Cruise with Asian Side Visit
Best of Istanbul 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour
Istanbul: Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise Tour with Audio Guide
Istanbul Highlights Private Tour: Hotel Pick-Up & Drop-Off
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Top hotels in Old City
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Staff were fantastic. Always ready to help. Room was clean and bedding extremely comfortable. Location was superb.
Reviewed on Feb 4, 2026
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
muhteşem
Reviewed on Feb 5, 2026
Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul
Great hotel, excellent Customer Service and great views. So close to all the attractions.
Reviewed on Feb 5, 2026
Recital Hotel
Everything
Reviewed on Feb 4, 2026
Seven Hills Hotel - Special Class
Great
Reviewed on Feb 5, 2026
AJWA Sultanahmet
Great staff! The service was excellent. The hotel is well situated for site seeing and there is a house car for nearby attractions. Very nice spa.
Reviewed on Feb 5, 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Old City
Sirkeci
You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Sirkeci. Spend some time visiting top spots like Grand Bazaar, and catch the metro at Sirkeci Station or Eminonu Station to see more of the area.
Sultanahmet
Enjoy the popular shops in Sultanahmet. Hagia Sophia is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Sultanahmet Station or Cemberlitas Station to see more of Istanbul.
Galata
Spend some time visiting places like Galata Tower while getting to know Galata, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Sishane-Zemin Metro Station or Karakoy Tünel Station to see more of the area.
Karaköy
Consider a visit to Galata Tower and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Karaköy. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Karakoy Station or Karakoy Tünel Station.
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 Hagia Sophia and Taksim Square, and jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Aksaray Tram Station to see more of the city.
Beyoğlu
Travelers love Beyoğlu for its popular shops, and you can see more of Istanbul by jumping on the metro at Sishane-Zemin Metro Station or Tophane Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Taksim Square and Galata Tower.
