Old City Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Popular places to visit
Blue Mosque
The bright blue ceramic tiles that line the interior of this great traditional mosque are a sight to behold.
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.
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 stunning cathedral 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 shops.
Activities
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket
Bosphorus Boat Tour 3 Hour with Asian Side Stop in Istanbul
Istanbul: Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise Tour with Audio Guide
Whirling Dervish Ceremony: Go on a Spiritual Journey
Our pick of the best Old City Hotel Deals
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Our room and property is very clean. Staff is very friendly. And the location is excellent.
Reviewed on 6 Apr 2026
Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul
Went for the first time to Istanbul. This hotel is located in the best place walking distance to all the sight theme possible easy access to the train and bus stops restaurants bakeries everything is accessible.. Hotel was very nice and clean. Staff was very helpful. Rooms were very clean. Everything ...
Reviewed on 7 Apr 2026
Fer Hotel
Amazing stay at FER over he last five days. Really helpful staff and delicious food.
Reviewed on 4 Apr 2026
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
Traveling with kids, we really appreciated the pool area. It’s quiet and well maintained. Rooms were spacious and very clean. Breakfast had a lot of options.
Reviewed on 10 Apr 2026
Seven Hills Hotel - Special Class
Perfect Blend of Comfort and Location Located in one of the most vibrant areas of Istanbul, yet surprisingly მშვიდ and relaxing. The service quality is top-tier and the atmosphere feels exclusive.
Reviewed on 10 Apr 2026
Carina Gold Hotel and Restaurant
Excellent room , great staff
Reviewed on 4 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 Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia – 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 Blue Mosque 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.
