Wondering where to stay in Istanbul? One of the most intoxicating cities in the world, teeming with history and one of the only places where you can visit Europe and Asia within half an hour.
Just a short and stunning ride across the Bosporus will have you ticking off two continents and two very different areas of the city.
Like many of the Mediterranean cities, you’ll find adorable cats at every turn, hanging outside the bazaars and cafes and basking in the glow of the city.
Apart from museum hopping, and haggling at the markets, a perfect day in Istanbul involves drinking cay tea or Turkish coffee in one of the many tea gardens in the city, a common meeting place for locals where you can admire a splendid view of the river as you drink.
Surrounded by the smell of spices and incredible local cuisine, Istanbul is one of those cities that’s very difficult to leave.
Table of Contents
- Where to stay in Istanbul
- Beyoglu
- Why Stay In Beyoglu
- Things To Do In Beyoglu
- Where To Stay In Beyoglu
- Sisli District & Besiktas
- Why Stay In Sisli District & Besiktas
- Things To Do In Sisli District & Besiktas
- Where To Stay In Sisli District & Besiktas
- Sultanahmet
- Why Stay In Sultanahmet
- Things To Do In Sultanahmet
- Where To Stay In Sultanahmet
- Uskudar
- Why Stay In Uskudar
- Things To Do In Uskudar
- Where To Stay In Uskudar
- Taksim
- Why Stay In Taksim
- Things To Do In Taksim
- Where To Stay In Taksim
- Princes’ Islands
- Why Stay In Princes’ Islands
- Things To Do In Princes’ Islands
- Where To Stay In Princes’ Islands
Where to stay in Istanbul
The most popular areas for visitors to stay in are undoubtedly the Sultanahmet historic hub and the upmarket Taksim area in the new city – both located on the western and European side of Istanbul.
Dotted around these areas are some truly diverse neighbourhoods and a short boat ride away takes you to the very different Asian side of the city.
In between the two lies the golden Horn so if you’re hoping to hop between the two sides regularly being based near to the estuary might be the best idea.
There’s an extensive transport network in the city including trams, metros, and buses.
It’s easy to get around to the attractions wherever you’re based and with gorgeous ancient streets and bazaars to meander through there’s no better city to put your walking shoes on and just go for it.
Beyoglu
A Quieter Area With Convenient Access To The New And Old City
Situated very close to the historical Sultanahmet but separated by the Golden Horn a flooded river valley, the two areas are connected by several bridges.
Why Stay In Beyoglu
While there are some attractions based in this area namely museums and lush parks, the biggest advantage of staying here is its nightlife, and buzzing cafe and restaurant culture.
By no means cut off from the attractions, most are within walking distance or easily accessed by tram or bus as well as the modern Taksim Square.
If you like boutique style shopping, there are many designers selling their handmade items here.
Beyoglu might be missing the charm of some of the older areas, new places popping up every year and the neighbourhood is always developing.
Choosing a hotel in one of the quieter side streets is generally a good idea here since the neighbourhood truly never sleeps.
If you want to be based in a place that’s always buzzing with easy access to the historical attractions, then Beyoglu is a fine choice.
Things To Do In Beyoglu
- Admire the striking medieval Galata Tower, one of the most famous monuments in Istanbul
- See the paintings at The National Museum of Modern Art
- Visit The Museum of Innocence, literature meets art concept museum
- Stroll through Craftsman Park
- Experience the world’s largest miniature park Miniatürk
- Do some reading at Salt Galata, a beautiful modern library and bookstore
Where To Stay In Beyoglu
The only hotel located right on Istiklal Avenue in Taksim, the centre of entertainment, culture and shopping, Richmond Istanbul is surrounded by historical buildings and churches. All rooms at Richmond Istanbul include a seating area and coffee maker. Rooms offer views of Istiklal Caddesi, the Bosporus or the Istanbul skyline.
Just 100 yards from Taksim Square in Istanbul, this hotel offers luxurious rooms with a flat-screen TV and a whirlpool. The air-conditioned rooms of Taksim Gonen Hotel are elegant and decorated with warm colours and wooden furniture. All rooms have satellite TV, a minibar, and a hairdryer. Some rooms have a spacious seating area.
The Galataport Hotel is just 200 yards from the iconic Galata Tower. Up-and-coming Karakoy area is also within a walking distance. The hotel offers a terrace with views of Marmara Sea, Golden Horn and the Old City. Decorated in classic Ottoman style, the rooms at The Galataport Hotel are air-conditioned and soundproofed. Each room has a minibar, electric kettle, tea & coffee setup and a safety deposit box.
Sisli District & Besiktas
Old Meets New With Modern And Historical Cultural Charm
Although situated further from the tourist attractions of Istanbul, these neighbourhoods have so much to offer.
Meaning ‘cradle stone’ in Turkish, Besiktas is a smaller district of Istanbul and is easily one of the most historic areas of the city.
Why Stay In Sisli District & Besiktas
A museum and art hub, the village-like atmosphere draws musicians and artists to the area and you’ll always find live music playing somewhere.
It’s hard to believe that the modern Sisli district is right next door when you wander these alleyways and admire the medieval architecture.
Staying here really does offer the best of both worlds but also has some cheaper accommodation options than Sisli.
Sisli is an upscale area of Istanbul, finding luxury hotels, shopping malls (including the second largest shopping mall in the world with over 300 shops), and fine dining here is no problem.
However, the neighbourhoods also boast a plethora of museums, churches, and mosques as well as countless museums and parks.
Both of these neighbourhoods are a pleasure to walk through and really showcase modern Turkish life, you’ll find a lot of the locals here enjoying the spacious areas and greenery.
Things To Do In Sisli District & Besiktas
- Shop in the market district, an open bazaar of clothes, spices, and fruit
- Discover the history of Turkish ships at The Turkish Naval Museum or their military history at the Istanbul Military Museum
- Take a cruise of the Bosporus since many of the tours start here or take a boat over to the Asian side of the city
- Photography the Bosphorus Bridge for real old meets new charm
- Stroll through Yildiz Park
- Shop until you drop at Istanbul Cevahir, the largest shopping mall in Europe and second largest in the world – take a peek at the second largest clock in the world on the rooftop
- Catch a film at one of twelve cinemas in Istanbul Cevahir
- Watch a football match at the legendary BJK Inonu Stadium, one of the most beautiful stadiums in the world
- Visit the neo-baroque Ortakoy Mosque
- Wander the three hundred rooms of Dolmabahce Palace
- Admire the collections at The Museum of Painting & Sculpture
- Head to The Tomb of Barbarossa complete with four sarcophagi, a legendary sailor
- Enjoy the greenery, and cafe at Ihlamur Palace
Where To Stay In Sisli District & Besiktas
Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul is located between Dolmabahce Palace and Naval Museum on the European coast of the Bosphorus. This luxurious hotel offers an indoor pool, CHI, The Spa and elegantly decorated rooms with modern amenities. The rooms feature contemporary décor with Asian highlights. Each room is equipped with high-tech products, free high-speed internet, a flat-screen TV and an iPod docking station. The marble bathrooms have heated floors and Bvlgari toiletries.
Click here for prices and book Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul
Located in the centre of Akaretler, which is right in the heart of Beşiktaş, surrounded by cafes and design galleries this stylish hotel features modern-designed light coloured apartments with air conditioning, free WiFi and fully equipped kitchen.
Hotel Bosfora is set in Istanbul, 900 yards from Dolmabahce Palace. All rooms include a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Some rooms have a seating area to relax in after a busy day. Enjoy a cup of tea while looking out at the sea or city. All rooms have a private bathroom fitted with a shower. Extras include bathrobes, slippers and free toiletries.
Sultanahmet
The Historic Centre Where Bazaars Meet Outstanding Architecture
On the European side and easily the most popular neighbourhoods to be based in Istanbul.
Sultanahmet area is the place to experience an ‘old city’ vibe and be close to all of the city’s historical major attractions within walking distance.
Why Stay In Sultanahmet
It’s an ideal location to walk along the river, enjoy a fish taco from one of the vendors and explore nearby neighbourhoods over the bridge meaning you can enjoy the best of both worlds right on your doorstep.
Most of the accommodations here are nestled in the winding side streets and there’s no shortage of restaurants, stalls, local shops, and cafes here.
Even the famous Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar are within easy strolling distance.
The Haag Sofia and the Blue Mosque, two of the most iconic sights in Europe, seem to be around every corner ready to greet you as you get lost in this traditional area (make sure you’re covered up if you want to visit).
The downside is that it’s very quiet at night, the city’s nightlife s based elsewhere and there’s a lack of evening entertainment in general.
Most of the city’s accommodation is based here and there’s a nice range of prices meaning there’s something for everyone.
Try not to buy too many carpets while you’re in Sultanahmet!
Things To Do In Sultanahmet
- Wander over to The Haag Sofia Istanbul’s iconic site and once considered the greatest church in Christendom
- Marvel at the Blue Mosque from inside and out
- Go spice shopping at the Spice Bazaar
- Take pictures of the Basilica Cistern, the largest surviving Byzantine cistern in the city
- Buy a Turkish tea set at the Grand Bazaar
- Marvel at the local calligraphy and rugs collection at the Ibrahim Pasha Palace Museum
- Visit Topkapi Palace, the court of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th – 19th centuries.
- Get lost in history at one of Istanbul’s museums – Museum of the Ancient Orient, the Tiled Pavilion, or the Istanbul Archaeological Museum.
Where To Stay In Sultanahmet
Only 350 yards from the Blue Mosque, this hotel with elegant exterior is situated a 7-minute walk from Hagia Sophia. It features a winter garden with a fireplace and a lounge area with classic furnishings. Air-conditioned rooms at Celine Hotel have wooden ceilings and floors. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels, electric kettle and a minibar are provided.
Click here for prices and book Celine Hotel – Ottoman Mansion
Located within 750 yards of Column of Constantine and 750 yards of Grand Bazaar, Boss Hotel Sultanahmet features rooms in Istanbul. Offering a terrace, the property is located within less than 0.6 miles of Basilica Cistern. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, a concierge service and free WiFi. At the hotel, each room includes a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. All rooms are fitted with a kettle, while some have a balcony.
This property is located a short distance from attractions such as Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Column of Constantine is 1 mile from the hotel. Guest rooms at the hotel are equipped with a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a private bathroom with free toiletries and a shower. Rooms have a kettle, while certain rooms will provide you with a kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven.
Uskudar
Connect With The Local Culture In This Relaxed Neighbourhood
Placing yourself on the Asian side of the strait literally opens up a whole new world to explore while in Istanbul.
Why Stay In Uskudar
The most popular area on the Asian side but still very much off-the-beaten-track, Uskudar is an ideal area if you’ve been to Istanbul before and have already seen the sights.
You can get a real authentic, local experience here – going to the hammam you’ll be surrounded by locals rather than tourists and get a village feel in the middle of this giant city.
A relaxed area, with incredible views across the water to the old city you’ll find no shortage of exciting restaurants and cafes to visit.
Things To Do In Uskudar
- Take pictures of the historic Maiden’s Tower
- Hike to the top of Camlica Hill, the highest point in the city
- Visit Atik Valide Mosque
- Explore Beylerbeyi palace, a former imperial summer home
- Visit the miniature mansions built for birds at the Ottoman Bird Palaces
Where To Stay In Uskudar
Located in the Asian side of Istanbul, this hotel offers modern rooms with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. The hotel has a spa centre with a heated indoor pool, gym, sauna and a Turkish bath. Capitol Shopping Centre is 550 yards from this hotel. The rooms of Mercure Istanbul Altunizade feature a simple décor in brown and beige. All rooms include a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle with tea and coffee set up, minibar and a safe box. Some rooms also offer a balcony or city views.
The Hotel Volley offers non-smoking rooms with free Wi-Fi access and a private balcony. It has an on-site restaurant and a cosy bar. Volley Hotel’s rooms have air conditioning, a minibar and an en suite bathroom fitted with both shower and bathtub. Some rooms feature a private spa bath in the bathroom.
Located in Uskudar on the Asian side, The Bosphorus Houses is a 10-minute walk to the seafront, where you can go to the Maiden’s Tower. It offers self-catering studios with free WiFi and a flat-screen TV. The studios at The Bosphorus House come with carpeted floors. The kitchens include a fridge, stove and cooking utensils as well as an electric kettle. Some studios offer a sofa bed and a private terrace.
Set in a stylish, early 19th-century building and decorated in a modern Ottoman style, Taksim Prelude Hotel provides rooms with free Wi-Fi in the heart of Istanbul’s lively Beyoğlu district. All bright rooms feature high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows. Orthopaedic beds and goose feather pillows enhance guests’ sleeping comfort. A flat-screen TV and espresso machine are available to each room. The luxurious bathrooms are equipped with Pascal Morabito amenities and a rain shower.
Taksim
A Chic, Modern Neighbourhood For A Touch Of Luxury
A common meeting area for the local people of Istanbul, this trendy and modern hub boasts many of the city’s most modern hotels, restaurants, and shopping experiences.
Why Stay In Taksim
Takism is famous for its luxury hotels, you’ll find most of the major hotel brands based here.
This is a great area to be based if you love nightlife as there are plenty of bars and clubs to enjoy and there’s always something going on.
Stroll along the boulevards and admire the architecture in this stylish area.
There is still a lot to do, and you are walking distance from Beyoglu district.
Things To Do In Taksim
- Gaze at the Monument of The Republic, commemorating Turkish independence
- Jump on the heritage tram line on the Istanbul Metro to Tunel Square and walk back for a tour of the city
- Go shopping on the nearby bustling pedestrianised Istiklal Street
- Enjoy Turkish street food and an array of traditional Turkish dishes you must try
- Meander the Turkish delight and dondurma shops for some local desserts
- Seek out the street art and local graffiti tucked away in this area
Where To Stay In Taksim
Situated 200 yards from Taksim Square and Taksim Metro Station, Taksim City Suites is 100 yards from the vibrant Istiklal Street with its shops, cafés, galleries, restaurants and bars. With elegant décor and parquet floors, the air-conditioned accommodation at Suite Artemis features a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a mini fridge and an electric kettle. The private bathroom comes with a shower, hairdryer and free toiletries.
Set in Istanbul, 350 yards from Taksim Square and 0.7 miles from Istiklal Street, Taksim Residence offers free WiFi. All units are fitted with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, washing machine and kettle. There is also a kitchen in some of the units equipped with a dishwasher, a microwave, and a fridge.
Princes’ Islands
A Unique Stay On The Asian Side For A Very Different Experience
Definitely a unique way to spend your Istanbul holiday, the Prince’s Islands are a collection of nine islands off the coast of Istanbul’s Asian side.
They’re quite often visited as a day trip from the city but each one has far more to offer than a day trip could ever satisfy.
Why Stay In Princes’ Islands
Each island has its own quirks and attractions and it’s a wonderful way to meet locals as you stroll the fishing villages and hike up to the ruins and castles that litter most of the islands.
Cars aren’t allowed on the islands to you’ll be able to get around by walking or catching a fayton, a traditional mode of transport which is essentially a horse-drawn carriage.
If you’re looking for a green retreat and a tranquil way to spend your city break where you can also catch incredible views across to the main city, then this is a perfect choice.
Things To Do In Princes’ Islands
- Rent a bike and explore the sights
- Seek out the Ottoman-era mansions
- Explore the summer house of Leon Trotsky
- Head to Nakibey Plaj beach and go swimming
- Visit the historic Prinkipo greek Orthodox Orphanage
- Hike to Aya Yorgi Church
- Eat at Sinek Cafe, a beautiful cafe and piece of famous modernist architecture
Where To Stay In Princes’ Islands
Located in the heart of Buyukada Island, Ada Palas Hotel Buyukada is just 200 yards from Kabatas-Kadikoy-Adalar Ferry Port. Featuring in a restored 19th-century mansion, the hotel offers 24-hour front desk service and rooms with modern amenities.
Set in Buyukada, Serguzest Otel has a garden and bar. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi. Certain rooms at the property have a balcony with a sea view.
Located in the heart of Kadikoy, Loka Suites is set in a renovated historical building. Each room features a contemporary design with elegant furniture. The property, which features free WiFi access throughout, also has a terrace overlooking the street.
Located in Istanbul’s Asian Kadıköy district, just 5 minutes’ walk from the Besiktas-Karakoy-Eminonu pier, Khalkedon Hotel offers modern rooms and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views over the Bosphorus Strait. All rooms at the Khalkedon Hotel are air-conditioned and decorated in modern style while preserving buildings original architecture. Each room has a minibar, flat-screen TV and is complemented with a large, private bathroom.
Located in a peaceful area in Moda neighbourhood, Juliet Rooms & Kitchen is only a short walk from the seaside. The property has a garden and a shared terrace overlooking the Marmara Sea and Princes’ Islands, which you can enjoy coffee or tea. Free WiFi access is also available throughout. Each room here will provide you with air conditioning. Private bathroom also comes with a hairdryer. Some rooms also have a balcony.
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