Old City
Popular places to visit
Hagia Sophia
Once a church, then a Byzantine cathedral, later a mosque and now a monument, this iconic building is a national treasure.
Blue Mosque
The nickname of this 17th-century structure refers to the brilliant color of its tiled interior.
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.
Topkapi Palace
The official residence of the Ottoman sultans for about four centuries is now accessible to the public and home to sacred relics.
Sultanahmet Square
You can find out about the history of Istanbul with a stop at Sultanahmet Square. Add the area's notable monuments or stunning cathedral to your travel plans.
Süleymaniye Mosque
This 16th-century mosque is not only the largest active mosque in Istanbul, but also one of the city’s most symbolic.
Things to do
Istanbul Must See:Hagia Sophia Bluemosqu Topkapı Basilica Cistern Bosphorus Tour
Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar - Half-Day Small Group Tour
Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John
3 Hours Bosphorus Boat Cruise with Stop in Asia Side
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
Top hotels in Old City
Reviewed on 14 Nov 2024
Reviewed on 19 Nov 2024
Reviewed on 19 Nov 2024
Reviewed on 17 Nov 2024
Reviewed on 17 Nov 2024
Reviewed on 17 Nov 2024
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 Topkapi Palace.
Sultanahmet
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia – discover Sultanahmet, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Eminönü
Known for its breathtaking beach views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Eminönü. Check out top attractions like Grand Bazaar and Eminönü Square, and jump on the metro at Eminonu Station or Beyazit Station to see more of the city.
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.
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.
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.