Old City
Istanbul
Popular places to visit
Blue Mosque
Named for its dazzling interior covered in blue tiles, this is a hub of Istanbul's religious life.
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.
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 shops or stunning cathedral to your travel plans.
Basilica Cistern
'The Sunken Palace' is the biggest of the hundreds of underground reservoirs underneath the streets of Istanbul, dating from Byzantine Constantinople.
Things to do
Istanbul: Unlimited Turkey Internet with eSIM Mobile Data Plan
Bosphorus Explorer: 3-Hour Cruise with Asian Side Visit
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
Bosphorus Sunset or Daytime Yacht Cruise with Snacks & Live Guide
Istanbul: Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise Tour with Audio Guide
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Top hotels in Old City
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
The room was excellent. I can’t say enough about the staff. We were Century located near everything within walking distance. We had to stay there two different times and they made us feel very welcome right at home if I ever go back to Turkey, I definitely will stay there again
Reviewed on Nov 2, 2025
Senatus Hotel - Special Class
Great place to stay! Very Clean, close to everything. The restaurant attached was an excellent choice for dinner. The hotel was close to everything, from the port to shopping, sightseeing, and the Blue as well as the Brown Mosques. I highly recommend!
Reviewed on Nov 1, 2025
Seven Hills Hotel - Special Class
The hotel was perfect for our needs. Well located with very friendly and willing staff. We had a generous breakfast included, so we took this on the rooftop, enjoying the incredible views. The room was well appointed with a very comfortable bed. Particular mention to Ozi - for his helpful advice ...
Reviewed on Nov 2, 2025
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
Beautiful room, stunning hotel!
Reviewed on Nov 5, 2025
Recital Hotel
The room was perfectly clean with a great view, and the staff were friendly, courteous, and always ready to help. They were also very respectful of our privacy and the time we spent at the hotel.
Reviewed on Nov 6, 2025
Kare Hotel Sultanahmet
Everything excelet
Reviewed on Nov 6, 2025
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 Topkapi Palace, and catch the metro at Sirkeci Station or Eminonu Station to see more of the area.
Sultanahmet
Enjoy the popular shops in Sultanahmet. Blue Mosque is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Sultanahmet Station or Cemberlitas Station to see more of Istanbul.
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.
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.
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.
Fatih
Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are top sights in Fatih, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Aksaray Station or Yusufpasa Station to see more sights in the area.
