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.
Blue Mosque
The nickname of this 17th-century structure refers to the brilliant color of its tiled interior.
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.
Bosphorus
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Bosphorus during your travels in Istanbul. Wander the seaside in this relaxing area.
Balat Hotel Deals
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Great hotel, fine dining and spacious room make this one of the best hotels in Istanbul. Security seems a bit too much at first, but you get used to it.
Reviewed on 2026/1/2
Dedeman Bostancı
Hotel is not five stars, it has aged.
Reviewed on 2026/1/4
Recital Hotel
Room is basic but meet the needs. Staff is very helpful
Reviewed on 2026/1/6
Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina Hotel
Clean room, great location and staff. Nice NYE celebration. Only complaint is our room was very noisy first and last night of our stay.
Reviewed on 2026/1/2
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
Yes very nice
Reviewed on 2026/1/5
Cityloft 161
Clean nice room
Reviewed on 2025/11/13
Other neighborhoods around Balat
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.
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.
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.
Karaköy
Consider a visit to Galata Tower and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Karaköy. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Karakoy Station or Karakoy Tünel Station.
Sirkeci
You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Sirkeci. Spend some time visiting top spots like Grand Bazaar, and catch the metro at Sirkeci Station or Eminonu Station to see more of the area.
