European Side
Where to stay in European Side
Sultanahmet
Discover the charm of old Istanbul in this working-class district, featuring narrow streets with tightly packed apartment buildings. Explore historic sites like Topkapı Palace and Hagia Sophia, or indulge in diverse cuisines, all easily accessible by tramway.
Taksim
Major tourist hub, Taksim Square boasts a lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants, shops, and grand hotels. Explore İstiklal Caddesi, ride the nostalgic tram, and visit iconic landmarks like the Republic Monument and Taksim Mosque.
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
Explore historic libraries and diverse cuisines in this area, home to Istanbul University and the Orthodox Christian Patriarchate. Visit iconic sights like Topkapı Palace and Hagia Sophia, and discover what's nearby via the tramway from Sirkeci to Aksaray.
Beşiktaş
Scenic views of the Bosphorus strait and historic sites like Dolmabahçe Palace await in this bustling financial center. Enjoy modern shopping malls, diverse dining options, and easy access to ferries and metro lines for seamless exploration.
Şişli
Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre and Mecidiyekoy Square are top sights in Şişli, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Sisli Station or Osmanbey Station to see more sights in the area.
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Popular places to visit
Taksim Square
You can learn about the local history of Istanbul when you make a stop at a well-known site like Taksim Square. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its fascinating museums.
Blue Mosque
The nickname of this 17th-century structure refers to the brilliant color of its tiled interior.
Hagia Sophia
Once a church, then a Byzantine cathedral, later a mosque and now a monument, this iconic building is a national treasure.
Grand Bazaar
Enter the maze of shop-lined streets in one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world to browse hundreds of thousands of hand-crafted objects.
Galata Tower
Istanbul’s medieval lookout point offers panoramic views across city’s historic district and the water of the Golden Horn.
Topkapi Palace
The official residence of the Ottoman sultans for about four centuries is now accessible to the public and home to sacred relics.
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
Istanbul Turkish Bath in Ottoman Style at Hammam with Drinks
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar - Half-Day Small Group Tour
3-Day Ephesus, Pergamum & Pamukkale Tour by Plane
- Taksim Square
- Blue Mosque
- Hagia Sophia
- Grand Bazaar
- Galata Tower
- Topkapi Palace
- Bosphorus Bridge
- Mall of Istanbul
- Bosphorus
- Sultanahmet Square
- Istiklal Avenue
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Ataturk Olympic Stadium
- Süleymaniye Mosque
- Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center
- Basilica Cistern
- Bahçeşehir Gölet Park
- Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre
- Florya Beach
- Eminönü Square
- Egyptian Bazaar
- Ciragan Palace
- CNR Expo Center
- Ataköy Marina
- Galataport
- Medicana International Istanbul Hospital
- Istinye Park
- Pera Palace Hotel
- Vodafone Park
- Marmara Park Shopping Center
- Forum Istanbul
- Istanbul Sapphire