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.
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.
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.
Things to do
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Istanbul: Perfume Making Workshop with Bosphorus View
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket and Audio Guide
Istanbul:Princess Island(Büyükada)& Island Electric Car Trip
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show
Top hotels in Merkez
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
"Always a great experience, food, service, location top notch.."
Reviewed on 23 May 2026
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
"The staff at reception were amazing, always smiling and super helpful. When our rooms weren’t ready we headed to the spa to freshen up for a meeting — honestly it was a great experience, really well equipped. The room itself was huge and so comfortable, loved how clean everything was. One thing worth ..."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Titanic City Taksim
"Very Nice Hotel with nice pool will stop there again"
Reviewed on 26 May 2026
Hampton by Hilton Istanbul Airport, Arnavutkoy
"We booked a room with king bed but they gave us a room with queen bed and open sofa with sheets and pillows although we never requested it 😬 It made the room smaller for no reason!!!"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
"The hotel is perfectly located in the historic district. Their buffet breakfast had a wide variety of well made food. The rooftop restaurant & view was excellent. Staff went above and beyond expectations and were extremely helpful and pleasant. I felt perfectly at home here and will return ..."
Reviewed on 26 May 2026
Elite World Istanbul Taksim
"Location"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Merkez
Fatih
Enjoy the popular shops in Fatih. Hagia Sophia 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 Hagia Sophia and Taksim Square, 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. 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.
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.
