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.
Galata Tower
Standing for over 650 years, this imposing cylindrical lookout point continues to offer special views over the city of Istanbul.
Blue Mosque
Named for its dazzling interior covered in blue tiles, this is a hub of Istanbul's religious life.
Hagia Sophia
A world famous monument to the ever-changing history of Istanbul, and one of the largest churches in the world.
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.
Grand Bazaar
Visit one of the biggest and oldest covered markets in the world, a real taste (and smell and sound!) of the diversity that Turkey has to offer.
Activities
Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive)
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket and Audio Guide
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Tour With Turkish Night Show
Istanbul Highlights! Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı and More
Our pick of the best Merkez Hotel Deals
Elite World Istanbul Taksim
The hotel looks great esthetically. The rooms are much smaller than what the pictures make them seem. Very dated. The AC didnt work consistently it would cool for 5 mins and blow warm humid air The rest of the day. No storage in the room for long stays. The showering amenities like shampoo are really ...
Reviewed on 27 Apr 2026
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
Beautiful place to stay! The room was amazing and the breakfast buffet was incredible.
Reviewed on 27 Apr 2026
Titanic City Taksim
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
The concierge staff was excellent thank you
Reviewed on 26 Apr 2026
Hampton by Hilton Istanbul Airport, Arnavutkoy
the hotel is clean and staf is very hepful and breakfast is very fresh and good
Reviewed on 26 Apr 2026
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Super quiet location yet super central. You can walk to Sultanhamet square in 6 mins and 10 min walk to the Grand Bazaar. Breakfast was amazing too. And the staff is very nice!
Reviewed on 26 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Merkez
Fatih
Enjoy the popular shops in Fatih. Blue Mosque 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 Galata Tower and Blue Mosque, 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. Galata Tower 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 Şişli Mosque and Bomontiada.
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.
