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.

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.

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 Hagia Sophia and Taksim Square, and jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Aksaray Tram Station to see more of the city.

Şişli
Bomontiada and Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre 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.

Karaköy
Consider a visit to Galata Tower and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Karaköy. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Karakoy Station or Karakoy Tünel Station.

Hampton by Hilton Istanbul Airport, Arnavutkoy
Hotel is conveniently located 10 minutes from airport. Rooms are very clean and staff are welcoming and friendly. Our flight was very early which meant we would miss the breakfast time, so staff offered us a box lunch instead if we preferred so we'd have something to eat early in the morning - very ...
Reviewed on 13 May 2026

Elysian Airport Hotel & Restaurant
This hotel seems almost brand new. The room we had was the best we had in 12 days of staying in Turkiye. The shower didn't leak - which was rare, the bed was comfortable. The only minor issue is the hotel is on a steep road. The police academy is across the road and the authorities have chosen to ...
Reviewed on 15 May 2026

YOTELAIR Istanbul Airport AIRSIDE
When I booked this hotel it was not entirely clear to me that it was on the airside but I was jetlagged and otherwise tired so easy to blame myself. I followed the airport exit signs and found myself at a Yotel kiosk. The kiosk employee told me I couldn't enter the airside for a few hours and that ...
Reviewed on 8 May 2026

Meroddi Beyoğlu Residence
Excellent service. Very clean Highly recommended for anyone looking for a comfortable, clean and convenient place to stay . Stuffs are extremely helpful and kind. I enjoyed my stay ….
Reviewed on 3 May 2026

Medusa Apart Hotel
This is a scam; the photo there is not a true photo of the property. The building is closed, and there is a sign with a number to call. Nobody is in the property, no staff, no front desk. You text them before arrival, they never answer through the Expedia platform, when you arrive at the place, you ...
Reviewed on 4 March 2026

Somerset Maslak Istanbul
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 stunning cathedral.

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.

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
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.

Grand Bazaar
You can browse for souvenirs when you visit Grand Bazaar, a popular shopping spot in Istanbul. Add the area's stunning cathedral or notable monuments to your travel plans.
