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.
Galata Tower
Istanbul’s medieval lookout point offers panoramic views across city’s historic district and the water of the Golden Horn.
Blue Mosque
The nickname of this 17th-century structure refers to the brilliant color of its tiled interior.
Bosphorus
Explore the great outdoors at Bosphorus, a popular spot to commune with nature in Istanbul. Wander the seaside in this relaxing area.
Things to do
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Turkish Night Show
Short Bosphorus Cruise Tour With Hotel Pickup And Audio Guide
Acemoglu Historical Turkish Bath with Private Options
Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Ticket with Guided Tour
Top hotels in Merkez
Elite World Grand Istanbul Kucukyali
Clean room, luxury premises, everything top notch. You are locked into their restaurants though (nothing else near) which are quite pricey.
Reviewed on 29 Jan 2026
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Perfect
Reviewed on 2 Feb 2026
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
A very positive stay with warm, attentive service throughout. Special thanks to Chef Mehmet Efir for making the experience feel personal and for being so accommodating — it made a real difference. I would gladly stay here again.
Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Nice Hotel perfect area to walk around
Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026
Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina Hotel
This hotel is our favorite and always perfect. Thank you
Reviewed on 24 Jan 2026
The Marmara Taksim
Amazing location Amazing staff Everything top notch!!
Reviewed on 23 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Merkez
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.
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
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.
