Old City
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.
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.
Topkapi Palace
The official residence of the Ottoman sultans for about four centuries is now accessible to the public and home to sacred relics.
Eminönü Square
Learn about the local history of Istanbul when you take a trip to Eminönü Square. Discover the area's fascinating museums and shops.
Things to do
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Istanbul: Princess Island Büyükada Tour with Island Vehicle
Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket and Audio Guide
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-line Entry & Guided Tour
Istanbul: Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
Old City Hotel Deals
Carina Gold Hotel and Restaurant
The staff clean the room really fast and breakfast is really good. Hotel is very clean and staff at the hotel front desk is very respectful.
Reviewed on May 6, 2026
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Great location, clean room, helpful staff
Reviewed on May 5, 2026
Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul
I had a wonderful stay at Hotel Arcadia Blue and would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Istanbul. A special thank you to Emir, who was incredibly helpful in guiding us with transportation around the city—his advice made getting around Istanbul so much easier. Furkan was also fantastic, assisting ...
Reviewed on May 5, 2026
The Lola Hotel
They tell you something and show you something. Please don't believe them. They have very bad staff.
Reviewed on Apr 17, 2026
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
Hotel itself was mostly fine, but fell below expectations in the photos on Expedia. Our room was in the 'annexe', separate from the rest of the hotel, and with a corridor that opened onto the city street. This on several occasions was left unlocked which, along with the wonky lock on the door of ...
Reviewed on May 5, 2026
Fer Hotel
We felt very welcom at Fer Hotel. The staff was amazing, and the service was very good. The rooms were spotless, and housekeeping was quick each day. The breakfast was amazing!
Reviewed on May 4, 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 Topkapi Palace, and catch the metro at Sirkeci Station or Eminonu Station to see more of the area.
Sultanahmet
Discover the charm of old Istanbul in this working-class district, featuring narrow streets with tightly packed apartment buildings. Explore historic sites like Topkapı Palace and Hagia Sophia, or indulge in diverse cuisines, all easily accessible by tramway.
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 Taksim Square and Grand Bazaar, 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.
