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 Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket and Audio Guide
Istanbul: Princess Island Büyükada Tour with Island Vehicle
Istanbul: Full-Day Highlights Tour with Guide and Lunch
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Istanbul Highlights! Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı and More
Our pick of the best Merkez Hotel Deals
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Thank you, Ritz-Carlton Istanbul team. You made my stay wonderful!
Reviewed on 4 May 2026
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
I had a wonderful experience at Swissôtel The Bosphorus Istanbul, and I especially want to thank Bellman Cem for his outstanding service. From the very first day, he was incredibly kind, welcoming, and genuinely helpful. When I wasn’t happy with my initial room, the hotel kindly arranged a change, ...
Reviewed on 7 May 2026
Titanic City Taksim
It is a nice property but they really need to sort their central heating as you cant change the setting and in the night the temperature goes up to 27 degrees. Not a single night I had a pleasant sleep!!!
Reviewed on 3 May 2026
Elite World Istanbul Taksim
Had a lovely 3 day break here, room was lovely. Great breakfast and really helpful friendly staff
Reviewed on 7 May 2026
Hampton by Hilton Istanbul Airport, Arnavutkoy
mediocre at best
Reviewed on 7 May 2026
Divan Istanbul
Excellent as always.
Reviewed on 1 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Merkez
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.
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.
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.
