Old City Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Popular places to visit
Hagia Sophia
Throughout its various incarnations as a church, an Orthodox cathedral, a mosque, and a museum, this magnificent structure has dominated Istanbul's skyline.
Grand Bazaar
Stock up on artisanal curios as you explore thousands of shops in Istanbul's enormous covered market, one of the largest and oldest in the world.
Blue Mosque
The bright blue ceramic tiles that line the interior of this great traditional mosque are a sight to behold.
Topkapi Palace
Admire a vast array of artefacts as you explore this magnificent palace in the Old City, home to the Ottoman sultans for around 400 years.
Sultanahmet Square
You can find out about the history of Istanbul with a stop at Sultanahmet Square. Add the area's shops or notable monuments to your travel plans.
Eminönü Square
Learn about the local history of Istanbul with a stop at Eminönü Square. Discover the area's fascinating museums and stunning cathedral.
Activities
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Guided Tour w/ Tickets
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
Istanbul Highlights Private Tour: Hotel Pick-Up & Drop-Off
Monuments of Ottoman Empire Tour - Skip the Line Tickets
Our pick of the best Old City Hotel Deals
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Nice Hotel perfect area to walk around
Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
Staff was great
Reviewed on 5 Feb 2026
Recital Hotel
The breakfast was a delicious and impressive spread! Coffee was delicious. Staff were helpful and rooms were clean. No complaints.
Reviewed on 31 Jan 2026
Seven Hills Hotel - Special Class
Great location. Room spotless and staff couldn’t do enough. Will be going back
Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026
Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul
Beautiful room and amazing view! Staff upgraded us without asking. Highly recommend!
Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026
AJWA Sultanahmet
N
Reviewed on 5 Feb 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Old City
Sirkeci
Travellers choose Sirkeci for its ample dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Sirkeci Station or Eminonu Station and check out top sights like Grand Bazaar.
Sultanahmet
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Hagia Sophia to Blue Mosque – discover Sultanahmet, a destination also famous for its shopping.
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.
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.
