Where to stay in Istanbul , The best areas

Istanbul, Turkey's largest city, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical monuments, chief among them Hagia Sophia, followed by the Blue Mosque.

With over 15 million inhabitants, it is one of Europe's largest cities. Finding the right place to stay in Istanbul is therefore a very important part of your travel planning. The city offers a wide variety of accommodation, from luxury hotels to more affordable options.

If you are visiting Istanbul for the first time, this article will prove particularly useful. It will guide you through the city's best neighbourhoods and the most important sights in each of them.

# Is Istanbul Safe to Visit?

As is the case in many European cities, Istanbul has a moderate level of safety. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, phone theft, and muggings, are more common than violent crimes. You should be vigilant and use common sense as you enjoy your stay in the city.

Regarding terrorist attacks, be aware that they do happen, but they are few and rare. It is much more likely that you will be involved in a traffic accident in your own city than be subjected to an attack in Istanbul.

# How to Get Around Istanbul

Once you arrive in the city centre from the airport, usually by taxi or bus, it is very possible to explore all the main attractions on foot, depending, of course, on your fitness level.

# Public Transport in Istanbul

For your travels between Beyoglu and Fatih (the city centre), you can use Istanbul's public transport, such as the Metrobus or the metro. Istanbul metro tickets, meaning the Istanbulkart cards, can be purchased either at the airport or from kiosks near metro stations.

# How to Get a Transport Card

Kiosks will have a sign indicating "Istanbulkart" or "Akbil Dolum Noktası" (recharge point). The card will cost you 10 Turkish Lira (TL) = 0.28 euros, and you can top it up at the metro station. These cards can also be used for the tram and other means of transport in Istanbul.

# Taxis in Istanbul

As a last resort, you can call a taxi to take you anywhere in the city. Make sure to negotiate the price before getting into the taxi or ask for the meter to be activated. Most taxis only accept cash in Turkish Lira.

In conclusion, Istanbul is a city full of history, culture, and unique experiences. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can enjoy an unforgettable stay in this city.

Where to Stay in Istanbul: Accommodation Guide

Let's look at the best places to stay in Istanbul, and you'll discover which areas are most suitable for families, which for solo travellers, and which are ideal for those visiting the city for the first time!

Sultanahmet – Suitable for Families

for your first visit to the city, or if you're only staying for a few days.

Sultanahmet is the historic heart of Istanbul, home to its top tourist attractions. If you are looking for the perfect place to stay in the city, Sultanahmet seems, and is, the most logical choice.

Hotels in Sultanahmet are within walking distance of Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Spice Market, the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayı), with a plethora of cafes, restaurants, and tourist shops in the surrounding area.

Pros and cons of staying in Sultanahmet:

For those who only have two days in the city and want to visit all the main attractions, Sultanahmet is an ideal choice. Especially for families, it allows them to explore the sights without long journeys. Sultanahmet also offers an authentic experience with its hammams, however, the nightlife in the area is quite subdued.

Activities in Sultanahmet:

1. Visit Hagia Sophia, the most important monument for all Orthodox Christians, which has served as both a church and a mosque.

2. Explore the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, an iconic Ottoman mosque.

3. Stroll through Sultanahmet Square, with its park, gardens, and historical monuments such as the Obelisk of Theodosius.

4. Dine at the Panoramic restaurant of the Adamar hotel for amazing city views.

Positives of Sultanahmet:

– The area is one of the most beautiful parts of the city.

– It is within close proximity to the main attractions, with many restaurants catering to tourists.

– The area is flatter compared to other parts of Istanbul.

– It has good transport links to other parts of the city.

Negatives of Sultanahmet:

– Men in restaurants and shops can be bothersome.

– Shops are quite expensive due to the area's tourist nature.

– The area is quite commercial and touristy, losing its authenticity.

The best hotels in the area

Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton

A superb 5-star hotel just a 10-minute walk from the traditional shopping district of the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, with ethnic shops selling jewellery, antiques, carpets, souvenirs, spices, and many other local products. From its restaurant, you can admire the amazing view of Hagia Sophia.

Obelisk Hotel and Suites

Conveniently located in the Fatih district of Istanbul, Obelisk Hotel & Suites is 500m from the Blue Mosque, 500m from Hagia Sophia, and 500m from the Basilica Cistern. It is a traditional and beautiful hotel with a restaurant and shared lounge and very good prices.

Taksim – the best choice for shopping and nightlife

Taksim is Istanbul's most modern and commercial area. It doesn't boast significant tourist attractions, but Istiklal Caddesi (Istiklal Avenue) is a long pedestrian street packed with high street and local shops connecting the area to Galata. Galata is a very touristy destination with the famous Galata Tower and is an older neighbourhood.

For these reasons, when it comes to accommodation in Istanbul, Taksim is a popular choice. It's ideal for groups of friends looking for nightlife and shopping, but not for families or solo travellers seeking cultural experiences.

Positives of Taksim:

– Less hassle from restaurants and shops compared to Sultanahmet.

– Ideal for shopping and nightlife.

– Good transport links to other areas of the city.

Negatives of Taksim:

– Commercial area, without the charm of other parts of the city.

– Not suitable for those who prefer quiet evenings.

– Not close to major tourist attractions in the city.

– Some areas may have a questionable reputation.

The best hotels in the area

Sofitel Istanbul Taksim

Sofitel Istanbul Taksim is located 200m from Taksim Square and offers accommodation with a terrace, private parking, and a bar. The hotel provides a fitness room, indoor pool, sauna, and a restaurant.

The Independent Hotel Taksim

Just half a kilometre from Taksim Square is a beautiful hotel with essential amenities and very good prices.

Galata – the top choice for a relaxed lifestyle

Galata is a historic neighbourhood in Istanbul, full of streets, hills, and beautiful buildings. Besides the Galata Tower, which is a major tourist attraction, it also has charming cafes and many shops. Galata is an ideal neighbourhood for solo travellers and people who love history and culture.

Positives of Galata:

– Historic area with beautiful buildings.

– Touristic, but without pushy restaurants and shops, offering a nice way to discover the city.

– Good location, closer to tourist attractions than Taksim.

Negatives of Galata:

– Very hilly. If you have difficulty walking, it might be challenging.

– Most tourist attractions are not close by.

– Prices may be higher due to the area's popularity.

The best hotels in the area

Maravilloso Hotel Galata

Within walking distance of the Spice Market, Istiklal Avenue, and Taksim Square. This hotel offers guests air-conditioned rooms with a desk, electric kettle, minibar, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a shower. Some rooms also have a kitchen with a fridge, microwave, and hob.

Hostel Le Banc

The rooms at Hostel Le Banc offer a seating area. All rooms have a private bathroom, hairdryer, and linen. The property offers city views and is 300m from the Galata Tower, providing air-conditioned accommodation and a shared lounge.

Karakoy – the ideal choice for relaxed walking

and easy public transport connections.

Karakoy is located on the hillside below Galata, by the river and opposite Sultanahmet. As a neighbourhood, Karakoy doesn't offer much. It has many restaurants and some shops and bars in the evening, but it lacks history and charm.

Positives of Karakoy:

– It's flat, so if you have difficulty walking, it's a good option.

– It's close to Galata Bridge and has good connections to Sultanahmet.

– It provides good connections to public transport to other areas of the city.

– It has a plethora of restaurants and bars right on its doorstep.

Negatives of Karakoy:

– It's quite touristy.

– It lacks history or culture compared to other areas.

The best hotels in the area

The Wings Hotel Istanbul

The Wings Hotel Istanbul, located in Istanbul and 1.1 km from the Spice Market, offers concierge services, allergy-free rooms, a garden, free WiFi throughout the property, and a terrace.

Royal Tophane

Royal Tophane offers guests air-conditioned rooms with a desk, electric kettle, minibar, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a shower.

Cihangir – The best option for Digital Nomads

or if you're staying for a long period

Cihangir is a neighbourhood opposite Galata and close to Taksim, but it has its own distinct atmosphere. It is perhaps the best place to stay in Istanbul. Cihangir is a local neighbourhood with a new and modern feel, attracting many foreigners. There, you'll find many charming cafes and restaurants.

It is also known for its antique shops, where you can discover unique items. There, you can enjoy a wonderful Turkish breakfast and a good coffee, feeling that you are experiencing the real Istanbul, while also exploring the city's tourist attractions.

Positives of Cihangir:

– A very local and authentic neighbourhood.

– Plenty of cafes and restaurants that are popular with locals too.

– Good connections to public transport to other areas of the city.

Negatives of Cihangir:

– Somewhat hilly. If you have difficulty walking, it might be challenging.

– Not as many tourist attractions within walking distance.

– High-quality hotel options are fewer here due to the area's non-touristy nature. Therefore, it's best to book quickly!

The best hotels in the area

Hammamhane

Hammamhane is housed in a renovated building, just 550m from the bustling Istiklal Avenue. The property offers spacious suites with a private kitchen and free Wi-Fi. It also features a historic Turkish bath called Cukurcuma Hammam on site.

Be Mate Casa Di Bava

A beautiful and decent hotel with very good prices in the city centre.

Besiktas – best area for exploring the Bosphorus

Besiktas is a neighbourhood located right next to the Bosphorus. It is a more authentic area with small streets and charming bakeries, but at the same time, it also hosts multi-storey buildings and luxurious restaurants in some parts.

If you are in Istanbul for business, then this is an ideal area thanks to its beautiful restaurants and shops. Furthermore, in Besiktas, there are many luxurious hotels that will cater to your needs!

And best of all, 5-star hotels in Istanbul are much more affordable compared to other cities and countries!

Positives of Besiktas:

– Good connections, with a pier on the Bosphorus.

– Local, non-touristy atmosphere.

– Suitable for business travellers.

– Plenty of luxury hotels.

– 5-star hotels offering excellent value.

– Safe for solo travellers too.

Negatives of Besiktas:

– Somewhat removed from the main tourist attractions.

– Requires using public transport to get everywhere.

The best hotels in the area

Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul

Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul is located on the European coast of the Bosphorus, between Dolmabahçe Palace and the Naval Museum. This luxurious hotel offers an indoor pool, CHI, The Spa, and elegantly decorated rooms with modern amenities.

Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul

The luxurious 5-star Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul holds Executive Level safety certification from Safe Hotels for the period 2016-2017 and offers a wonderful rooftop pool and an award-winning spa. It also provides amazing views of the Bosphorus and is within walking distance of the Nişantaşı area with its designer shops.

Kadikoy – The best area to discover the Asian side of Istanbul.

Kadikoy is located on the eastern side of Istanbul. Yes, as you heard, this city is divided between Europe and Asia by the waters of the Bosphorus. And don't get confused if you hear the names Kadikoy and Karakoy; they sound similar but are different neighbourhoods here.

It is not so common for tourists to choose to stay on the Asian side of Istanbul, but if you want to experience the city's true local atmosphere, this is an excellent choice.

Also, it's a good idea if you have already visited Istanbul once or twice before and want to discover a new aspect of it.

Kadikoy has plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars, just like the European side, but with a different and more relaxed vibe.

Uskudar is another popular place to stay on the Asian side, but due to the lack of quality hotels there, we recommend Kadikoy as the best choice for accommodation on Istanbul's Asian side.

Positives of Kadikoy:

– It is a very local neighbourhood easily accessible for tourists.

– It's easy to visit the attractions on the Asian side.

– Offers more affordable options for accommodation and dining due to less tourist development.

Negatives of Kadikoy:

– You need to use a ferry or metro to reach Europe for the main attractions.

– It may not match the image you have in mind for Istanbul.

– Kadikoy is known for its nightlife, so if that's not what you're looking for, you might want to avoid the area.

The best hotels in the area

Yolohostel

This beautiful hotel features a garden, shared lounge, terrace, and free Wi-Fi throughout.

Uskudar – The Asian side of Istanbul with many mosques

Accompanied by Kadikoy, Uskudar is another ideal place to stay on the Asian side of Istanbul and is one of the main spots you must visit here.

Although Uskudar is not exclusively religious, visiting here will make you feel a little closer to the religious side, as many Muslims reside here and there are many beautiful mosques nearby.

Visiting Istanbul's largest mosque should be on your to-do list here, and Uskudar is the ideal starting point.

Positives of Uskudar:

– It is one of the most important parts of the city, offering a unique accommodation experience on the Asian side.

– It is close to many mosques for Muslims visiting the area.

– Offers affordable options for accommodation and dining.

– It has good transport links to other parts of the city.

Negatives of Uskudar:

– You need to use a ferry or metro to travel to Europe for the main attractions.

– It may not match the image you have for Istanbul, due to its Asian side.

– Provides fewer accommodation options compared to other areas.

The best hotels in the area

Mercure Istanbul Altunizade

This hotel is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and offers modern rooms with air conditioning and free WiFi. It also provides a spa centre with an indoor heated pool, gym, sauna, and Turkish bath. Capitol Shopping Centre is 500m away.

Balat – best for longer stays

and to see an alternative area

Balat is an old historic neighbourhood in Istanbul and is known for its colourful houses.

Balat offers a unique accommodation experience in Istanbul, providing a local atmosphere but also cool cafes, shops, and restaurants due to tourist interest.

Positives of Balat:

– It is one of the most popular areas of the city, attracting many tourists during the day.

– Offers a unique accommodation experience in Istanbul.

– It is well-connected by public transport.

Negatives of Balat:

– It is not close to the city's main tourist attractions.

– Experiences a high level of tourist traffic during the day.

– There are fewer accommodation options compared to other areas.

The best hotels in the area

Ottobalat

Each unit includes a fully equipped kitchen with a dining table, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and a private bathroom with a shower, complimentary toiletries, and a hairdryer. A fridge, microwave, and hob are also provided, as well as a coffee machine and electric kettle.

Sisli – best for business trips

Istanbul is not a city of multi-storey, glass buildings, but it does have economic and modern areas, and Sisli is one of them.

Sisli is also considered one of Istanbul's upscale districts with many luxury hotels, fashion boutiques, shopping centres, and cocktail bars.

Positives of Sisli:

• Sisli is one of the city's most popular districts
• More upscale than other areas of the city.
• Good for a second or third trip to Istanbul.
• Well-located with good public transport connections.
• Mix of good value and luxury hotels.

Negatives of Sisli:

• Not close to any of Istanbul's tourist attractions.
• Not what most people imagine when they think of Istanbul.

The best hotels in the area

The Stay Nisantasi

This design hotel is located in Nisantasi, Istanbul's shopping district. It offers free WiFi and rooms with modern furnishings. The Bosphorus is less than 1km away. Rooms at The Stay Nisantasi include a walk-in wardrobe and a private marble bathroom with a shower and bathtub.

This city, with its rich history, culture, and vibrancy, leaves an indelible impression on every visitor.

From ancient monuments to modern points of interest, from traditional restaurants to cosmopolitan bars, Istanbul offers a rich variety of experiences for every traveller.

Whatever your choice for your stay in the city, whether you prefer the luxury and comfort of a high-end hotel or the authentic experience of a local neighbourhood, Istanbul will welcome you with open arms and leave you with unforgettable memories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which area is best for accommodation in the destination?

The ideal area depends on the type of trip. If you are looking for vibrancy, restaurants, and easy access to attractions, choose the historic city centre. For a quieter stay at a good price, prefer neighbourhoods slightly outside the centre that are served by public transport. Families usually prefer accommodations with space and easy access to parks or beaches.

How many days do I need to visit the destination?

For a first introduction to the main attractions, 2 to 3 nights are enough. If you want to explore the surrounding area, enjoy the gastronomy, and truly relax, allow 4 to 5 days. For a base trip with day excursions, a week is ideal.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) usually offer the best combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation prices. Summer is the busiest period, while winter suits those who want an authentic experience without crowds of tourists.

How can I book accommodation at the best price?

Booking through Booking.com offers flexible cancellation policies, real guest reviews, and often the best available prices. Book 2-3 months in advance for peak tourist season and compare prices between neighbourhoods, as a few minutes further from the centre often means significant savings.

Is the destination safe for tourists?

Yes, it is a visitor-friendly destination. As with any trip, caution is advised regarding personal belongings in crowded areas and public transport, and using reliable means of transportation. Accommodations with high ratings are usually located in safe neighbourhoods.