Merkez
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.
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.
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.
Topkapi Palace
Stately home to the Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years with an array of Turkish design and foreign art.
Things to do
Monuments of Ottoman Empire Tour - Skip the Line Tickets
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
2-Day Tour of Cappadocia, with Flights & Accommodation
Top hotels in Merkez
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Reviewed on 12 Jun 2024
Reviewed on 11 Jun 2024
Reviewed on 8 Jun 2024
Reviewed on 12 Jun 2024
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 Grand Bazaar and Blue Mosque, 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 Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre and Mecidiyekoy Square.
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.
- Taksim Square
- Blue Mosque
- Grand Bazaar
- Hagia Sophia
- Galata Tower
- Topkapi Palace
- Mall of Istanbul
- Bosphorus Bridge
- Sultanahmet Square
- Istiklal Avenue
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Florya Beach
- Bahçeşehir Gölet Park
- Basilica Cistern
- Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center
- Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre
- Süleymaniye Mosque
- Ciragan Palace
- Yorukali Beach
- Emaar Square Mall
- Istinye Park
- Kadıköy Port
- Medicana International Istanbul Hospital
- Pera Palace Hotel