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.
Hagia Sophia
A world famous monument to the ever-changing history of Istanbul, and one of the largest churches in the world.
Blue Mosque
Named for its dazzling interior covered in blue tiles, this is a hub of Istanbul's religious life.
Sultanahmet Square
Find out about the history of Sultanahmet Square, one of the top monuments in Istanbul. Add the area's shops or stunning cathedral to your travel plans.
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.
Activities
Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive)
Istanbul:Princess Island Büyükada with Island Electric Car
Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket and Audio Guide
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Tour With Turkish Night Show
Our pick of the best Merkez Hotel Deals
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
We had a room with a small terrace opening to the pool, which was still in the process of being opened. Staff generally were helpful and attentive, with the exception of the lobby bar where it was always a struggle to get someone to serve. Housekeeping and room service were excellent
Reviewed on 12 May 2026
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Breakfast was great; staff very nice; bathroom water system was weak and water backed up in sink and shower immediately.
Reviewed on 15 May 2026
Titanic City Taksim
Very clean and good location, near bus and metro and taksim square. Hotel was clean and staff were friendly. Spend 8 nights there with out issues
Reviewed on 14 May 2026
Hampton by Hilton Istanbul Airport, Arnavutkoy
Hotel is conveniently located 10 minutes from airport. Rooms are very clean and staff are welcoming and friendly. Our flight was very early which meant we would miss the breakfast time, so staff offered us a box lunch instead if we preferred so we'd have something to eat early in the morning - very ...
Reviewed on 13 May 2026
Divan Istanbul
Room was very spacious, and ultra clean! A/C worked well, and it was very easy to maintain a perfect room temperature. Never met a staff member who wasn't smiling. Morning breakfast buffet was an abundance of riches! (I won't dare tell how much weight I gained!) Highly recommend this hotel.
Reviewed on 13 May 2026
Carina Gold Hotel and Restaurant
We enjoyed staying in the hotel. Especially caring staff and clean room. The breakfast was so nice. The location is very easy to approach all historic places. I definitely recommend the hotel.
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Merkez
Fatih
Enjoy the popular shops in Fatih. Hagia Sophia 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 Hagia Sophia and Taksim Square, 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. 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.
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.
