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.
Topkapi Palace
Stately home to the Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years with an array of Turkish design and foreign art.
Things to do
Exclusive Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, Massage & Pool
Istanbul: Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise Tour with Audio Guide
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar - Half-Day Small Group Tour
Flexible Combo: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi, Basilica, Blue Mosque
Bosphorus Explorer: 3-Hour Cruise with Asian Side Visit
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
Top hotels in Aksaray
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
We had an amazing stay here. The staff was extremely courteous and helpful. They were very accommodating when we got there at 7 am coz of our early morning flight.
Reviewed on 13 Dec 2025
Divan Istanbul
Clean room and nice staff
Reviewed on 15 Dec 2025
The Marmara Taksim
Very helpful staff and lovely rooms
Reviewed on 15 Dec 2025
Dedeman Bostancı
Yes
Reviewed on 2 Dec 2025
Recital Hotel
Fantastic rooms and location.
Reviewed on 3 Dec 2025
Elite World Grand Istanbul Kucukyali
Rooms, staff everything
Reviewed on 7 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Aksaray
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.
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 Grand Bazaar.
Sultanahmet
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia – discover Sultanahmet, a destination also famous for its shopping.
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.
