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.
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.
Galata Tower
Istanbul’s medieval lookout point offers panoramic views across city’s historic district and the water of the Golden Horn.
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
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Istanbul: Unlimited Turkey Internet with eSIM Mobile Data Plan
Short Bosphorus Cruise Tour With Hotel Pickup And Audio Guide
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar - Half-Day Small Group Tour
Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise w/Audio Guide and Sunset Option
Top hotels in Merkez
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Staff was very helpful and friendly
Reviewed on 23 Oct 2025
Divan Istanbul
Very spacious and pretty hotel. Standard service. Facilities need improvement (half of the SPA facilities are not working)
Reviewed on 27 Oct 2025
InterContinental Istanbul by IHG
Great choice
Reviewed on 24 Oct 2025
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
There wasn't any one thing ,it was a great experience once again. My second time this year to stay,and I'll be back at my next trip to Istanbul. Beautiful place,overlooking the Bosphorus.The staff goes out of their way to make sure that your stay is unforgettable. Thanks to eve at Swissotel The ...
Reviewed on 28 Oct 2025
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
This hotel is quite old although the rooms were spacious and very quiet. We found the bed extremely comfortable. We stayed at the hotel eight nights, and the breakfasts were tremendous. The yogourt was fantastic and I mixed honey directly from the comb with it. The hotel is located in a great area, ...
Reviewed on 27 Oct 2025
CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul
The best hotel for me ❤️
Reviewed on 22 Oct 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 Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, 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. Blue Mosque 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 Bomontiada and Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre.
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.
Merkez Travel Guide
- Blue Mosque
- Hagia Sophia
- Grand Bazaar
- Galata Tower
- Topkapi Palace
- Bosphorus Bridge
- Sultanahmet Square
- Istiklal Avenue
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center
- Florya Beach
- Ataköy Marina
- Eminönü Square
- Bahçeşehir Gölet Park
- Basilica Cistern
- Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre
- Kadıköy Port
- Süleymaniye Mosque
