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.
Blue Mosque
The bright blue ceramic tiles that line the interior of this great traditional mosque are a sight to behold.
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.
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.
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.
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:Princess Island Büyükada & Island Electric Car Trip
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show
Istanbul: Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
Istanbul: Perfume Making Workshop with Bosphorus View
Our pick of the best Old City Hotel Deals
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
"We enjoyed the most wonderful stay at this hotel! Our wish was accommodation that had the vibrant Turkish appeal, was a safe location and near the many highlights of Istanbul. The hotel atrium was totally elegantly decorated, the entire premise was very clean and welcoming. The staff spoke excellent ..."
Reviewed on 25 May 2026
Carina Gold Hotel and Restaurant
"I booked this hotel for my parents (in their 70s). They said staff were very helpful and attentive, rooms were great and location couldn't be better."
Reviewed on 25 May 2026
The Lola Hotel
"it was really bad i can’t say it is a hotel i could get in this price better choice if they didn’t put other rooms instead of this room."
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul
"Best location and very good view!"
Reviewed on 25 May 2026
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
"Our room was very clean as was the property. Their buffet is excellent!"
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
AJWA Sultanahmet
"Beautifully ornate hotel elegantly decorated with marble everywhere! Little details like keeping the towels and washcloths in their own fabric bags stood out. We loved our “greenery” room and would stay here again!"
Reviewed on 29 Apr 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 Sultanahmet Square – 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 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.
