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.
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.
Galata Tower
Istanbul’s medieval lookout point offers panoramic views across city’s historic district and the water of the Golden Horn.
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.
Things to do
Short Bosphorus Cruise Tour With Hotel Pickup And Audio Guide
Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Turkish Night Show
Acemoglu Historical Turkish Bath with Private Options
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Plaza Premium Lounge at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)
Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Ticket with Guided Tour
Top hotels in Merkez
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
We had an amazing stay here. The staff was extremely courteous and helpful. They were very accommodating when we got there at 7 am coz of our early morning flight.
Reviewed on 13 Dec 2025
The Marmara Taksim
Very helpful staff and lovely rooms
Reviewed on 15 Dec 2025
Dedeman Bostancı
Yes
Reviewed on 2 Dec 2025
Recital Hotel
Fantastic rooms and location.
Reviewed on 3 Dec 2025
InterContinental Istanbul by IHG
Everything was just as it should be. The concierge and doormen were excellent.
Reviewed on 14 Dec 2025
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Muy bien ubicado y una muy buena recomendación.
Reviewed on 18 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Merkez
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.
Fatih
Enjoy the popular shops in Fatih. Grand Bazaar is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Yusufpasa Station to see more of Istanbul.
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.
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.
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.
