Merkez
Istanbul
Popular places to visit
Taksim Square
You can learn about the local history of Istanbul when you make a stop at a well-known site like 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.
Topkapi Palace
The official residence of the Ottoman sultans for about four centuries is now accessible to the public and home to sacred relics.
Merkez Hotel Deals
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
Amazing view, clean room, very friendly staff at Sabrosa restaurant for breakfast, good hamam experience too. We travelled as a family. Highly recommend. Walking distance to Dolmabahche palace and Bektisas.
Reviewed on 2026/2/19
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Spotless room. Very big.
Reviewed on 2026/2/19
Elite World Grand Istanbul Kucukyali
This was a great place to stay. Very helpful and friendly staff. The room, breakfast, and massage we got at the spa were all very good. There was one employee named Yusuf that helped us out alot with room service and at the restaurant. He did a really great job. I would recommend staying here ...
Reviewed on 2026/2/21
Çırağan Hotel Bosphorus
Price performance
Reviewed on 2026/2/16
CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul
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Reviewed on 2026/2/17
Sofitel Istanbul Taksim
The room was absolutely beautiful, the bed and pillows oh so dreamy comfortable and the staff everything you expect from a Sofitel. The Executive Lounge is small, but its offerings were delicious during cocktail hour. The location is great. We will return.
Reviewed on 2026/2/19
Other neighborhoods around Merkez
Fatih
Explore historic libraries and diverse cuisines in this area, home to Istanbul University and the Orthodox Christian Patriarchate. Visit iconic sights like Topkapı Palace and Hagia Sophia, and discover what's nearby via the tramway from Sirkeci to Aksaray.
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
Travelers love Beyoğlu for its popular shops, and you can see more of Istanbul by jumping on the metro at Sishane-Zemin Metro Station or Tophane Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Taksim Square and Galata Tower.
Şişli
Şişli Mosque and Bomontiada are top sights in Şişli, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Sisli Station or Osmanbey Station to see more sights in the area.
Galata
Spend some time visiting places like Galata Tower while getting to know Galata, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Sishane-Zemin Metro Station or Karakoy Tünel Station to see more of the area.
Taksim
Major tourist hub, Taksim Square boasts a lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants, shops, and grand hotels. Explore İstiklal Caddesi, ride the nostalgic tram, and visit iconic landmarks like the Republic Monument and Taksim Mosque.
