Merkez Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
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 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.
Galata Tower
Marvel at Istanbul's natural and architectural beauty from this medieval watchtower.
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.
Activities
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive)
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar - Half-Day Small Group Tour
Our pick of the best Merkez Hotel Deals
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
Everything was great
Reviewed on 25 Feb 2026
Çırağan Hotel Bosphorus
A
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
A
Reviewed on 5 Mar 2026
CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul
Room 1804 I had a mixed experience during my recent stay at the CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul. There were several highlights, but one persistent issue significantly impacted the stay. The Highlights Outstanding Service: The staff were truly wonderful. From the moment we arrived, everyone was ...
Reviewed on 1 Mar 2026
Elite World Grand Istanbul Kucukyali
Always happy to stay here, staff never fails me, always go above and beyond, the fact that it was Ramadan they still came around and gave us water day and night with a little snack. Very caring and considerate. Thank you. I am now a member ☺️
Reviewed on 3 Mar 2026
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Very good location and very friendly staff
Reviewed on 8 Mar 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 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.
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.