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
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.
Galata Tower
Standing for over 650 years, this imposing cylindrical lookout point continues to offer special views over the city of Istanbul.
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.
Bosphorus
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Bosphorus during your travels in Istanbul. Wander the seaside in this relaxing area.
Activities
Half day Fener-Balat Walking Tour in Turkiye
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Ticket with Guided Tour
Bosphorus Sunset or Daytime Yacht Cruise with Snacks & Live Guide
Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar - Half-Day Small Group Tour
Our pick of the best Merkez Hotel Deals
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Amazing
Reviewed on 7 Dec 2025
Divan Istanbul
the room was very clean and comfortable; I loved the view. The only problem was the tv ...old model not smart type.
Reviewed on 26 Nov 2025
Dedeman Bostancı
Yes
Reviewed on 2 Dec 2025
Recital Hotel
Fantastic rooms and location.
Reviewed on 3 Dec 2025
InterContinental Istanbul by IHG
Very good
Reviewed on 3 Dec 2025
Elite World Grand Istanbul Kucukyali
The hotel is truly wonderful. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and thoughtfully furnished so that nothing is missing. The view from the window is incredible. Despite the heavy traffic outside, the room is very quiet—you can’t hear the neighbors or any noise from the corridor. The bedding was changed ...
Reviewed on 6 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Merkez
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
