Where to stay in Turkey: regions and hotels

Turkey is vast, both in terms of its size and the variety of its destinations, so the question of 'where to stay' doesn't have a single answer, but rather depends on what you're looking for. If it's your first time visiting and you're seeking history, markets, and a Byzantine-Ottoman atmosphere, your base should be Istanbul, specifically the Sultanahmet or Beyoğlu neighbourhoods. If you're after something entirely different, with stone houses carved into rock and morning hot air balloon flights, Cappadocia offers a unique experience, ideal for couples.

For summer holidays by the sea, Bodrum offers cosmopolitan life, marinas and five-star resorts, while Izmir serves well as a base for those who want to combine city life with excursions to Ephesus and the surrounding ancient ports. Fethiye, on the southwestern coast, suits those who prefer a calmer atmosphere, clear waters and boat trips in the blue lagoon of Ölüdeniz. Families with children usually opt for Bodrum or Fethiye, with resorts featuring swimming pools and organised beaches, while budget travellers can find good value in Izmir and in some areas of Istanbul outside the city centre.

Given the significant distances between these destinations, the usual travel pattern is to choose one or two locations rather than attempting to combine them all into a single trip. Below, we break down each region separately, with specific accommodation suggestions for different types of travellers.

How to organise your trip to Turkey

Turkey spans two continents, with Istanbul being the natural entry point for most visitors from Greece, thanks to numerous direct flights from Athens and Thessaloniki. Istanbul Airport handles the majority of international flights and is about a forty-minute taxi or metro ride from the city centre, while the older Sabiha Gökçen, on the Asian side, is mainly used by low-cost airlines. For Cappadocia, the gateway is Kayseri or Nevşehir airport, usually with a connecting flight via Istanbul. Bodrum and Izmir have their own airports with direct summer charter flights from several European cities, while Fethiye is mainly served by Dalaman Airport, about an hour away by bus or taxi.

The distances between these destinations are considerable: from Istanbul to Cappadocia, expect about an hour's flight or ten hours by road, while from Izmir to Bodrum, the journey is approximately three hours by car. For this reason, most trips are planned around one or two destinations rather than trying to cover the entire country, unless you have two weeks or more available.

The best time to visit is spring, from April to June, and autumn, from September to mid-October, when temperatures are pleasant for both beach holidays and excursions in Cappadocia. In summer, the heat in Istanbul and Izmir can be intense, while in Cappadocia, nights remain cool due to the altitude. Winter in Cappadocia brings snow and particularly beautiful landscapes, but many hotels in coastal destinations like Bodrum and Fethiye close seasonally from November to March.

Within Istanbul, you can easily get around by metro, tram and the historic ferry boats connecting the European and Asian sides, whereas in Cappadocia, Bodrum and Fethiye, hiring a car is very helpful, as attractions and beaches are spread out. If you plan to visit Ephesus from Izmir, organised day trips are often more convenient than driving, especially if you're unfamiliar with local traffic rules.

Accommodation prices in Turkey generally remain lower than comparable Greek destinations, especially outside July and August, but it's worth checking prices in Euros, as the Turkish Lira experiences significant fluctuations. If you're considering combining Turkey with other trips in the region, you can also check our guide to Prague or the guide to Andalusia for ideas on other European destinations.

Istanbul: history, markets and Byzantine atmosphere

Istanbul is huge, but most visitors stay in historic Sultanahmet, home to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, all within walking distance. Beyoğlu, around Istiklal Street, offers a more modern vibe, with bars, restaurants and nightlife, and is close to Galata and the Galata Bridge.

1. Sultanahmet Palace Hotel

Located in the heart of Sultanahmet, a few minutes' walk from Hagia Sophia. It features a terrace with minaret views and Ottoman-style decor in the rooms.

• Average cost: €70 to €120 per night
• Ideal for: couples and first-time visitors

2. Ayasultan Hotel

A small hotel next to Hagia Sophia, with comfortable rooms and staff who help with suggestions for local attractions and restaurants.

• Average cost: €60 to €100 per night
• Ideal for: mid-range budget travellers

3. Blue House Hotel Old City (Sultanahmet)

A classic Ottoman building with a rooftop restaurant offering simultaneous views of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, perfect for sunset photos.

• Average cost: €80 to €130 per night
• Ideal for: couples

4. Darussaade Hotel Old City (Sultanahmet)

A quiet hotel on a narrow street in Sultanahmet, with simple but clean rooms and a very good location for exploring on foot.

• Average cost: €55 to €90 per night
• Ideal for: solo travellers and budget-conscious couples

Cappadocia: cave houses and hot air balloons at dawn

Cappadocia spreads around the towns of Göreme, Uçhisar and Ürgüp, with its famous cave houses carved into the volcanic rock now operating as boutique hotels. The majority of visitors stay in Göreme, the most central point for hot air balloon flights and exploring the valleys.

5. Grand Cave Suites

Cave suites with views of the Göreme valley, perfect for watching the hot air balloons take off at dawn from your own balcony.

• Average cost: €110 to €180 per night
• Ideal for: couples seeking luxury

6. Elite Cave Suites

Traditional cave house with stone arches and comfortable suites, within walking distance of Göreme town centre and hiking starting points.

• Average cost: €90 to €150 per night
• Ideal for: couples

7. Koza Cave Hotel

A small, family-run hotel with cave rooms in a quiet location, featuring a swimming pool and breakfast prepared daily by the owners.

• Average cost: €70 to €110 per night
• Ideal for: couples on a mid-range budget

8. Vineyard Cave Hotel

Located in Ürgüp, among vineyards, with cave rooms of various sizes and a quiet atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of Göreme.

• Average cost: €75 to €120 per night
• Ideal for: couples who prefer peace and quiet

Bodrum: marinas, resorts and summer life

Bodrum is one of Turkey's most cosmopolitan summer resorts, with its peninsula divided into several smaller areas, from the lively centre with its marina to quieter spots like Yalıkavak and Türkbükü. It's a good choice for both couples seeking luxury resorts and those looking for nightlife in the city centre.

9. The Marmara Bodrum (Adult Only)

An adults-only resort, built on a hill above Bodrum centre, with an infinity pool overlooking the sea and views of the castle.

• Average cost: €180 to €280 per night
• Ideal for: couples

10. Le Meridien Bodrum Beach Resort

A large beachfront resort with a private beach, multiple pools and a spa, designed for families but also suitable for couples seeking comfort.

• Average cost: €150 to €260 per night
• Ideal for: families

11. Sirene Luxury Hotel Bodrum

Located near Bodrum centre, with direct beach access and views of St. Peter's Castle, a good choice for an evening stroll around the marina.

• Average cost: €100 to €170 per night
• Ideal for: couples

12. Doria Hotel Bodrum-City Center

A simple but well-maintained hotel in Bodrum centre, a few minutes' walk from the marina and restaurants.

• Average cost: €60 to €100 per night
• Ideal for: budget-conscious travellers

Izmir: city life and gateway to Ephesus

Izmir is less touristy than the coastal destinations, but it works perfectly as a base for those wanting to visit ancient Ephesus, Selçuk and Pamukkale, all within one to two hours' drive. Its promenade, known as Kordon, is ideal for an evening stroll, while the old Kemeraltı market retains a strong local character.

13. Swissotel Buyuk Efes Izmir

One of the city's most renowned hotels, with large gardens, a swimming pool and bay views, close to the city centre and the promenade.

• Average cost: €100 to €160 per night
• Ideal for: business trips and couples

14. Izmir Marriott Hotel

A modern hotel near the city's commercial centre, with comfortable rooms and easy access to public transport for excursions to Ephesus.

• Average cost: €90 to €140 per night
• Ideal for: travellers seeking comfort and a central location

Fethiye: blue waters and a tranquil atmosphere

Fethiye is located on Turkey's southwestern coast and is known for Ölüdeniz lagoon, boat trips along the coast and quieter beaches compared to bustling Bodrum. It's a good choice for those seeking a more relaxed holiday, with less nightlife but more nature.

15. Yacht Boheme Hotel Boutique Class (Adults Only)

An adults-only boutique hotel, with Mediterranean decor and a swimming pool overlooking Fethiye bay, in a quiet location just outside the centre.

• Average cost: €90 to €150 per night
• Ideal for: couples

16. Sundia Exclusive By Liberty Fethiye (Adults Only)

An adults-only resort with a private beach and multiple pools, designed for peaceful holidays without children around.

• Average cost: €130 to €200 per night
• Ideal for: couples seeking tranquillity

If you're considering alternatives for your holiday period, check out our guide to exotic islands for ideas beyond Turkey.

If you're travelling with children and want ideas for other family-oriented destinations, see our guide to holidays with children, while if you're more interested in romantic accommodation, you can find similar suggestions in the guide to romantic hotels in Crete or the guide to Santorini for a comparison of accommodation styles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best area for a first visit to Turkey?

Istanbul, specifically Sultanahmet, gives you walking access to the main attractions and is the easiest starting point.

How many days are needed to see Cappadocia?

Three to four days are enough to take a hot air balloon flight, visit the underground cities and hike in two or three valleys.

Bodrum or Fethiye for family holidays?

Bodrum has more organised resorts with children's activities, while Fethiye offers a calmer atmosphere and clear waters for swimming.

Is a car necessary in Cappadocia?

It's not mandatory, as there are organised tours, but hiring a car gives you greater freedom to explore the valleys at your own pace.

What is the best time to travel to Turkey?

Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and lower prices, both for coastal destinations and Cappadocia.

How far is Izmir from Ephesus?

Ancient Ephesus is about an hour's drive from Izmir, which is why many visitors use it as a base for a day trip.

Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey from Greece?

Greek citizens usually require an electronic visa (e-Visa), which is issued online before travel and is valid for short tourist visits.