European Side
Travel Guide
Visit 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.
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.
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.
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.
Reviewed on 25 March 2025
Reviewed on 28 March 2025
Reviewed on 25 March 2025
Reviewed on 25 February 2025
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Reviewed on 15 May 2024
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.
Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia is a popular museum in Istanbul with a story of its own. Discover the area's fascinating museums and shops.
Blue Mosque
Find out about the history of Blue Mosque, one of the top monuments in Istanbul. Visit the area's stunning cathedral or amble around its seaside.
Grand Bazaar
You can browse for souvenirs when you visit Grand Bazaar, a popular shopping spot in Istanbul. Add the area's notable monuments or stunning cathedral to your travel plans.
Galata Tower
You can learn more about the history of Istanbul when you make a stop at a top site like Galata Tower. Stroll along the seaside or visit the notable monuments in the area.
Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace is a popular museum in Istanbul with a rich history. Add the area's notable monuments or stunning cathedral to your travel plans.
- Taksim Square
- Hagia Sophia
- Blue Mosque
- Grand Bazaar
- Galata Tower
- Bosphorus
- Topkapi Palace
- Mall of Istanbul
- Bosphorus Bridge
- Sultanahmet Square
- Istiklal Avenue
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Florya Beach
- Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center
- Bahçeşehir Gölet Park
- Galataport
- Eminönü Square
- Basilica Cistern
- Süleymaniye Mosque
- Ciragan Palace
- Ataköy Marina
- Egyptian Bazaar
- Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre
- Istinye Park
- Pera Palace Hotel
- Medicana International Istanbul Hospital
- Vadistanbul AVM
- Istanbul Expo Center
- Eyup Sultan Mosque
- Vodafone Park
- Gülhane Park
- Ataturk Olympic Stadium