A complete guide to where to stay in Istanbul, Türkiye (+ the best areas for first-timers, tourists, nightlife, shopping and the best hotels with Bosphorus views).
Istanbul, the largest city in Türkiye, lies at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. With a population of over 15 million people spread across 39 different districts, it’s a huge city. Given its size, choosing where to stay in Istanbul for first-timers could be overwhelming. That’s why I’ve put together this detailed guide. It will help you find the best place to stay based on the experience you’re looking for, whether it’s your first visit, sightseeing, nightlife, or shopping. I’ve also added some recommendations at the end of the post for the best hotels near Taksim, as it’s a very popular tourist area.
Where I stayed in Istanbul
During my first trip to Istanbul, I stayed in the Sultanahmet neighbourhood. This is the historic heart of the city, home to all major attractions, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. As it was my first time in Istanbul, I wanted to be within walking distance of the major landmarks. So, I decided to book accommodation in the southern area of Sultanahmet, not far from the sea (so I could enjoy some sea views from the hotel’s rooftop bar as well).
💖 My favourite hotel in Istanbul: Hotel Amira
Perfect for: sightseeing – 5 minutes away from the Blue Mosque and quiet at night
What I loved: delicious breakfast (especially gözleme), rooftop bar with Sea of Marmara views
Check details & prices: Booking.com | Expedia
I absolutely loved staying at Hotel Amira because of its location. You’re just a short walk from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, yet tucked away from the tourist crowds. One highlight was breakfast – I chose this hotel for its freshly made gözleme (a thin Turkish flatbread filled with cheese or spinach). They make it right there in front of you, and it’s seriously delicious. The cocktails at the rooftop terrace (with gorgeous sunset views over the sea) also didn’t disappoint!
Readers’ most booked hotel in Istanbul
Looking for a great hotel in an ideal location? Then take a look at Garden House Hotel – it’s not only one of the most booked hotels in Istanbul (over 4,900 reviews), but also one of the best-rated.
Garden House Hotel – Most booked hotel
Perfectly located for sightseeing, just a quick 7-minute walk from the Blue Mosque and under 15 minutes to Hagia Sophia. The hotel itself, set in a beautifully restored 19th-century Ottoman mansion, feels like a true home away from home. I especially loved their Garden 1897 restaurant, where you can try delicious Ottoman and Anatolian dishes. Plus, they treat you to free coffee and biscuits in the lobby every day!
Where to stay in Istanbul (My top picks)
- Sultanahmet – best area for first-timers (Great Fortune Design Hotel & Spa – best hotel)
- Cağaloğlu – for sightseeing (Erboy Hotel – best hotel in Cağaloğlu)
- Best hotel in Istanbul with Bosphorus view – Hotel De Reve Galata
- Galata – for nightlife (Richmond – best hotel in Galata)
- İstiklal Avenue – for shopping (The Wings Hotels Collection – best hotel near İstiklal Avenue)
- Sirkeci – for one night (Mest Hotel – best hotel in Sirkeci)
- Taksim Square – for easy access to the airport (Midtown Hotel – best hotel near Taksim)
- Best hotel near Istanbul Airport – Yotel
Tips for booking a hotel in Istanbul
Stay on the European side of Istanbul – book your accommodation on the European side, where all the tourist attractions, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, are.
Visiting Istanbul for the first time? Then take a look at my itinerary for 4 days in Istanbul, which includes all must-see sights and which Bosphorus cruise to take.
Public transport proximity – Istanbul is a huge city, and even if you stay centrally (in the Sultanahmet district), you’ll still need to use public transportation to get to the Dolmabahçe Palace or Galata Tower, for example. I’d recommend staying near tram line T1, which takes you to the most popular sights.
Sultanahmet – where to stay in Istanbul first time
If you look at a map, you’ll see that Istanbul is split into two by the Bosphorus Strait, connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. Additionally, the Golden Horn, an inlet of the Bosphorus, divides the European side of Istanbul into two parts – the historic peninsula of Sultanahmet and the newer district of Beyoğlu. Sultanahmet is where you’ll spend most of your time, especially if you’re visiting Istanbul for the first time.
The best place to stay in Istanbul for first-timers is Sultanahmet. It’s home to the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. Staying in this area means you can easily walk to these tourist attractions, making it convenient to explore without having to travel far. Plus, Galata Tower is just a short tram ride away (tram line T1, which connects Sultanahmet with the Galata neighbourhood across the Golden Horn).
Sultanahmet (part of the large Fatih district) is one of the most historic neighbourhoods in Istanbul. It is often referred to as the Old City or the Historical Peninsula because it was the heart of ancient Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine and later the Ottoman Empires. The area is surrounded by water on all sides except to the west, where you’ll find the old city walls. Sultanahmet is characterised by its narrow winding streets, bustling bazaars, and gorgeous Ottoman-era architecture.
Don’t miss out! This Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show (61,000+ excellent reviews), with a traditional Turkish folk dancing show, is one of the most popular tours and regularly sells out.
Why stay in Sultanahmet for the first time
- perfect location – Sultanahmet is the best place to stay in Istanbul for the first time, as it is home to almost all major tourist landmarks
- iconic attractions – Sultanahmet is home to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar and Basilica Cistern
- walking distance to all the major tourist sites – you’ll be no more than a 10-15min walk away from the popular landmarks (except for the Dolmabahçe Palace and Galata Tower, which you can easily access by taking tram line T1)
- excellent public transport connections to the rest of Istanbul – tram line T1 takes you to some popular attractions such as Galata Tower, Dolmabahçe Palace and Karaköy with its trendy restaurants
- Sultanahmet is very walkable – the area is quite flat, making it easy to walk around compared to other neighbourhoods
In my opinion, Sultanahmet is the best place to stay in Istanbul if you’re a first-time visitor. However, it’s important to note that the area is highly touristy. I discovered that many restaurants mainly cater to tourists, and the food isn’t that great. So, when picking a place to dine, consider walking away from the tourist spots near Hagia Sophia. For authentic Turkish cuisine, I can recommend Mivan Restaurant and Turgut Kebab Restaurant.
Best hotels in Sultanahmet
Great Fortune Design Hotel & Spa – Most popular 4-star
Situated in the heart of Sultanahmet, Great Fortune Design Hotel & Spa is a great place to stay for first-timers. Thanks to its central location, you’ll have easy access to major attractions such as the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque (only a 10-minute walk). Also, there is a tram stop (line T1) nearby, which provides a direct connection to the Galata Tower and Dolmabahçe Palace. And after a day of sightseeing, the hotel’s sauna and traditional hammam are a great way to relax!
Dosso Dossi Hotels Old City – Best rated 4-star
Dosso Dossi Hotels Old City is one of the best family-friendly hotels in Istanbul. Special kids’ menus and a feeding chair are provided for your convenience, along with strollers available upon request. The location is ideal for sightseeing, just a short walk from the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and a tram stop (line T1). You can also enjoy excellent spa facilities, which include a Turkish bath and a sauna.
Mula Hotel – Best 5-star
Mula Hotel features a quiet location, just steps away from the famous Blue Mosque. Rooms are modern, and some of them offer amazing views of the Sea of Marmara. There is also a great restaurant, the Nishane, a serene garden for relaxation, and a terrace with stunning sea views. A peaceful oasis in the heart of the busy city!
AJWA Sultanahmet – Second best 5-star
Situated in the historic Sultanahmet district, AJWA Hotel is the ideal luxurious retreat for your holiday in Türkiye. Rooms are decorated in Ottoman style, featuring mother-of-pearl furniture, silk Tabriz carpets, hand-painted ceilings and unique marble works. The hotel offers great dining options, including the rooftop Zeferan restaurant with panoramic views of the Bosphorus, as well as Sukkari Patisserie. Plus, there is an excellent hammam and indoor pool!
HaciBayram Hotel – Best 3-star
Haci Bayram is a great budget-friendly option, just steps from the Blue Mosque. One of the hotel’s highlights is the rooftop terrace with amazing views of the famous mosque. Plus, the breakfast is generous, and rooms come stocked with bottled water and fresh juice.
Blue Mosque Suites – Best apartments
If you’re looking for an apartment, the Blue Mosque Suites is one of the best centrally located options. Some of the bigger apartments even come with a private hammam and a large terrace! The kitchen is fully equipped with everything you need to make your stay comfortable. There is also breakfast in the morning, which includes local specialities, fresh pastries and fruits.
Cağaloğlu – best area to stay in Istanbul as a tourist
The best area to stay in Istanbul as a tourist is the Cağaloğlu neighbourhood. It is strategically located near the city’s most famous attractions, including Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. It is also home to Cağaloğlu Hamam, one of the city’s most famous and oldest Turkish baths. Additionally, Cağaloğlu is well-connected to other parts of Istanbul via the tram line T1, which provides access to the Galata Tower and Dolmabahçe Palace.
If you look at a map, you’ll see that Cağaloğlu is located north of the Sultanahmet neighbourhood. And similar to Sultanahmet, it is part of the larger Fatih district. Both Sultanahmet and Cağaloğlu are perfect areas to base yourself if you’re visiting Istanbul for tourism. However, in my view, Cağaloğlu is a slightly better option since it offers closer proximity to many major attractions, the T1 tram line, and ferry ports for Bosphorus Cruises.
Given this, there’s no need to worry if you’ve already booked a hotel in Sultanahmet, it’s still a very convenient area for tourism. Actually, on my initial visit to Istanbul, I stayed in Sultanahmet, and I was happy with my choice. Plus, Sultanahmet offers a wider selection of hotels to choose from, given that it’s a larger and more touristy neighbourhood.
Don’t miss out! Book your Hagia Sophia skip-the-line ticket. With over 15,000 visitors per day, lines are huge – save hours and get straight inside.
Why stay in Cağaloğlu as a tourist
- all famous attractions will be on your doorstep – Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern are all within a 5-10 minute walk
- easy access to the rest of the city – the T1 tram line (Gülhane stop) conveniently connects you to popular attractions like the Galata Tower, Dolmabahçe Palace, and Karaköy, known for its trendy restaurants
- convenient access to the ferry ports – Eminönü port is no more than a 15min walk
- most popular experience – enjoy a visit to the famous Cağaloğlu Hamam, one of the oldest Turkish baths in the city
Best hotels in Cağaloğlu
Erboy Hotel – Most popular 4-star
Erboy Hotel boasts a perfect location for sightseeing – just a short walk from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. In the summer, you can enjoy the rooftop Imbat restaurant, while in the winter, you can taste the best of the Aegean-Mediterranean cuisine at the Paşazade restaurant. The breakfast is wonderful, featuring local ingredients and even including a fresh honeycomb.
White House Hotel – Best rated 4-star
White House Hotel is one of the highest-rated hotels in Istanbul. This boutique hotel is not only conveniently situated within a short stroll of the iconic Hagia Sophia but is also known for its exceptional service. Rooms are luxurious with elegant furnishings and it feels like staying in a small palace. Yet, in my view, the highlight is the rooftop garden. Here, you can enjoy a fantastic breakfast and stunning views of Hagia Sophia and the Bosphorus.
Vogue Hotel Supreme – Best 5-star
Situated on the border of Cağaloğlu and Sultanahmet, this 5-star luxurious hotel is less than a 5-minute walk to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Rooms are modern and spacious, and some of them offer great views of the nearby famous mosque. Also, there’s a terrace restaurant where you can enjoy delicious Turkish cuisine while taking in the iconic Hagia Sophia views.
Hotel Nena – Best 3-star
If you’re after an affordable stay, Hotel Nena is a fantastic choice. The location is perfect, tucked away on a quiet street, yet just a short walk from both the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. For the best experience, be sure to book a room with a sea view!
Best hotels in Istanbul with Bosphorus view
The Bosphorus Strait connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara, and subsequently to the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. It separates Europe and Asia, making Istanbul one of the few cities in the world located on two continents. The Bosphorus is lined with historic landmarks such as Topkapi Palace and Dolmabahçe Palace.
Staying in a hotel with a Bosphorus view in Istanbul is an exceptional and magical experience. The Bosphorus offers breathtaking views, especially at sunrise and sunset. Imagine watching the boats glide by and the city lights reflecting on the water right from your hotel room! In my view, it’s a unique and romantic experience that adds a magical touch to your stay. If you’re planning a romantic getaway to Istanbul, I strongly suggest booking a hotel near the Bosphorus Strait.
That said, I’d suggest booking a hotel near the Golden Horn. This is a natural harbour that separates Istanbul’s historic old city (Sultanahmet and Fatih) from the newer districts like Beyoğlu and Galata on the European side. Staying in this area keeps you within walking distance of all the major sights, while offering gorgeous sea views. With that in mind, here are some of the best hotels in Istanbul with Bosphorus views.
Hotel De Reve Galata – Best rated 4-star
Set right on the Bosphorus waterfront, Hotel De Reve Galata offers amazing views of the strait from its rooms. Opt for a Corner suite with a sea view or a Corner suite with a balcony for the best views of the Bosphorus. Plus, the location is perfect for sightseeing as well, less than 10 minutes from Galata Tower and Karaköy tram T1 stop, which takes you to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. You can also have breakfast on the rooftop terrace while enjoying panoramic views of the Bosphorus. Additionally, there is a patisserie in the lobby, where you can savour delicious Turkish desserts.
The Halich Hotel – Most popular 4-star
Situated in the Karaköy district, right across the water of Sultanahmet, the Halich Hotel offers amazing views of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The location is very convenient for sightseeing – a 10-minute walk from Galata Tower and Karaköy tram T1 stop (10min ride to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque). There is an excellent restaurant on the 10th floor, Yuca, serving Turkish and international cuisine. Don’t miss their signature cocktails (I especially liked the exotic Tırtıl and Dedikodu cocktails).
The Peninsula – Best 5-star
This luxurious hotel is set along the Bosphorus Strait in the historic district of Karaköy. The Peninsula comprises four beautiful buildings, three of which are historic and restored to their original splendour. The hotel’s rooftop restaurant, Gallada, specialises in Turkish-Asian cuisine and offers breathtaking panoramic views over the Bosphorus. The wellness centre features outdoor and indoor swimming pools, a sauna and a hammam. The best palace to stay in Istanbul for a romantic getaway, in my opinion!
Galata – best area to stay in Istanbul for nightlife
The best place to stay in Istanbul for nightlife is Galata. This historic district is home to countless cafes, restaurants and rooftop bars. Plus, it is conveniently connected to the tourist Sultanahmet district via tram line T1 and a brief walk away from the shopping İstiklal Avenue (İstiklal Caddesi) with its numerous nightclubs.
Galata (part of the larger Beyoğlu) has a rich history dating back centuries. Initially settled by Greeks during the Byzantine era, it later became an important Genoese colony in the medieval period. The iconic Galata Tower, built by the Genoese in the 14th century, is the neighbourhood’s most important attraction.
While researching where to stay in Istanbul, I discovered that nearly every blog recommends Karaköy as the main nightlife area, which isn’t entirely accurate. While Karaköy does offer some cocktail bars, the heart of Istanbul’s nightlife is centred between the Galata neighbourhood and Taksim Square along İstiklal Avenue. In my view, it’s preferable to stay nearer to Galata than to Taksim Square. The Galata neighbourhood is closer (and better connected via tram line T1) to the historic Sultanahmet district and the ferry terminals.
Just a quick tip: be cautious when visiting clubs around Taksim Square. Some spots are known for overpriced or watered-down drinks and hidden charges on your bill. Also, watch out for people who approach you looking friendly and then try to take you to another bar or club where prices can be through the roof.
Why stay in Galata for nightlife
- ideal location – Galata is the best area to stay for nightlife in Istanbul, thanks to its numerous cafes, rooftop bars and restaurants, serving authentic Turkish cuisine. You’ll also be within a 15-minute walk of İstiklal Avenue and its countless nightclubs.
- easy access to the rest of the city and major attractions – tram line T1 (10min ride from Karaköy or Tophane station) takes you to the Sultanahmet district and Hagia Sophia
- convenient access to the ferry ports – Karaköy port is a 15-minute walk away, from where you can get a ferry to the Asian side
- my favourite restaurants and bars – head to Pera Antakya for a delicious Turkish dinner, then make your way to Flekk for a cocktail and finish the night at Nardis Jazz Club
Best hotels in Galata
Richmond – Best 4-star
Situated directly on İstiklal Avenue, the Richmond Hotel is mere steps away from Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife district. Rooms are modern and spacious, and some of them feature amazing views of the Bosphorus. Numerous fantastic restaurants, cocktail bars, and shops are right at your doorstep.
RUZ Hotels – Best 5-star
RUZ Hotels occupies a 19th-century historic building next to vibrant İstiklal Avenue, famous for its bars and shopping stores. Rooms are modern, featuring comfy beds and high ceilings. In my opinion, the highlight of the hotel is its fantastic rooftop bar and restaurant, Simone, with stunning views of the city.
Sabiha Sultan Hotel – Best 3-star
Sabiha Sultan Hotel is a great budget-friendly choice, conveniently situated between İstiklal Avenue and the Karaköy neighbourhood. Plus, Tophane (with the T1 tram line to Sultanahmet) is just around the corner. The location is quiet yet close to everything, including fantastic local restaurants and bars.
Weingart Suites Hotel – Best apartments
If you want more space and comfort, Weingart Suites Hotel is a great option. The modern apartments come with fully equipped kitchens and are just a short walk from İstiklal Avenue. There’s no breakfast included, but a supermarket is right across the street, and there are plenty of places nearby where you can grab breakfast.
İstiklal Avenue – where to stay in Istanbul for shopping
İstiklal Avenue (İstiklal Caddesi) is the best place to stay in Istanbul for shopping. Stretching for about 1.4 kilometres with an extensive selection of stores, from international brands to local boutiques, the avenue is a shopper’s paradise. You can find everything from fashion and accessories to books and traditional Turkish goods. If you’re interested in local brands, I suggest checking out LC Waikiki (an affordable fast fashion brand) and Vakko (a Turkish luxury fashion brand).
İstiklal Avenue, located in the Beyoğlu district, is one of the city’s most famous and bustling streets. Formerly known as Grande Rue de Péra during the Ottoman era, İstiklal Avenue has a rich history dating back centuries. The avenue is lined with elegant 19th-century buildings in different architectural styles, including Ottoman, neoclassical, and art nouveau. One of the iconic features of İstiklal Avenue is the classic red tram, which runs along the street, adding to its nostalgic charm.
Why stay in İstiklal Avenue for shopping
- perfect location – İstiklal Avenue is the best area to stay in Istanbul for shopping, as it is the city’s most popular shopping street, home to numerous local and international brands
- easy access to the rest of the city – tram line T1 (10min ride from Tophane station) takes you to the Sultanahmet district and Hagia Sophia, and metro line M2 (from Taksım or Şişhane station) to Eminönü neighbourhood across the Golden Horn
Best hotels near İstiklal Avenue
The Wings Hotels Collection – Best 4-star
Room Mate Emir is a modern boutique hotel, less than a 5-minute walk from İstiklal Avenue. The İstiklal Mall, Halep Pasajı and numerous other shopping stores are mere steps away. Rooms are very large with comfortable beds and contemporary design.
Pera Palace Hotel – Best 5-star
For a truly unforgettable stay, book a room at the 19th-century Pera Palace Hotel. This historic hotel with a beautiful Art-nouveau façade is just 5 minutes away from İstiklal Avenue and Passage Hazzopulo. The dining options include Agatha Restaurant (contemporary Turkish cuisine), Patisserie de Pera (classic French patisserie), Orient Bar&Terrace (fantastic cocktails) and Kubbeli Saloon, where you can enjoy afternoon tea. There is also a great spa with an indoor pool and a hammam.
Walton Gardens Pera – Best apartments
If you want the best of both worlds – homey comfort with hotel services – Walton Gardens Pera is a great pick. Just minutes from İstiklal Avenue, it offers self-catered apartments with fully equipped kitchens and suites that include a traditional Turkish hammam. Breakfast is served daily, and you can enjoy it on the rooftop lounge or in the garden.
Sirkeci – where to stay in Istanbul for one night
The best area to stay in Istanbul for one night is the Sirkeci neighbourhood. It is centrally located on the European side of Istanbul, making it easy to access all the city’s top attractions, including Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Blue Mosque. If you’re short on time, staying in Sirkeci allows you to explore these landmarks without spending too much time on transportation.
The neighbourhood is situated between the historic Sultanahmet and the Golden Horn (the primary inlet of the Bosphorus). Sirkeci is famous for being the terminal point of the historic Orient Express train, which connected Istanbul with major European cities. At the heart of the neighbourhood is Sirkeci Train Station, also known as Sirkeci Terminal. Built in 1890, the station served as the eastern terminus of the Orient Express. Today, it operates as a museum (the İstanbul Railway Museum is housed here) and a regular train station.
In my opinion, Sirkeci is the most convenient area to stay if you’re short on time. You can easily explore the city’s top attractions, including Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque and Galata Tower or take a Bosphorus Cruise. Plus, you can enjoy spectacular sunset views from the Galata Bridge (only a 10min walk away).
Why stay near Sirkeci for one night
- ideal location – Sirkeci is the best place to stay in Istanbul for one night, being not just a transportation hub but also conveniently situated within a 10-15 minute walk from the historic Sultanahmet and Hagia Sophia
- easy access to the rest of the city – tram line T1 (from Sırkecı station) takes you to Dolmabahçe Palace and Galata Tower
- convenient access to the ferry ports – Eminönü port is no more than a 10min walk
Best hotels in Sirkeci
Mest Hotel – Best 4-star
This lovely boutique hotel is housed in a historic building in the heart of the Sirkeci neighbourhood. Located right next to the Spice Bazaar and just 10 minutes away from the Grand Bazaar, Mest Hotel is the ideal place for a short stay. What I really love about this hotel is that from its rooftop breakfast restaurant, you can enjoy fantastic views of the New Mosque (Yeni Cami).
Cronton Design Hotel – Best 5-star
If you’re looking to treat yourself for a night, Cronton Design Hotel is a fantastic choice. Located in a beautiful historic building right in the city centre, it’s super convenient for sightseeing. The hotel’s Sirkeci Restaurant serves tasty Turkish and Ottoman dishes, and you can enjoy incredible views from the rooftop terrace. After a busy day, you can relax in their spa with a traditional hammam and sauna!
Safa Hotel Old City – Best 3-star
Safa Hotel Old City is a great budget-friendly option, just a short walk from the Grand Bazaar and Hagia Sophia. It’s the perfect base for a one-night stay when you want to be close to all the main sights. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and surprisingly spacious for the price.
Best hotels near Taksim Square
Taksim Square is often considered the geographical centre of the city. It not only serves as a central meeting point and transportation hub but holds significant historical importance as well. At the centre of Taksim Square stands the Republic Monument, erected in 1928 to commemorate the establishment of the Republic of Türkiye in 1923.
Taksim is famous for its lively vibe, nightlife and shopping scene. İstiklal Avenue, starting from the square, is the city’s main pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes and nightclubs. Taksim Square is also where the New Year’s Eve celebrations take place. It is also excellently connected to Istanbul Airport (IST) via the Havaist shuttle bus and to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) via the Havas shuttle.
Taksim is a very popular place to stay in Istanbul for tourists. However, I wouldn’t recommend it, unless you’re visiting the city for nightlife and shopping. There aren’t any major tourist attractions nearby. In fact, the area is not very well connected to the historic Sultanahmet neighbourhood, where the famous Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia are. To reach Hagia Sophia from Taksim, you’ll need about 40 minutes, using the metro line M2 followed by transferring to tram line T1. Another popular attraction, Galata Tower, is about a 30min away (metro line M2).
In my opinion, Taksim is not the place to stay if you’re visiting for tourism. Yet, it serves as a great base if you want easy access to the airport or be in the heart of the action, close to nightlife and shopping and don’t plan a lot of sightseeing.
That said, if you do need to stay in this area, here are some of the best hotels in Istanbul near Taksim Square.
Midtown Hotel – Best 4-star
Midtown Hotel is situated a few steps away from Taksim Square and the lively İstiklal Avenue with its numerous shops and bars. The hotel’s More Restaurant offers both traditional Turkish cuisine and international flavours. Rooms are modern and spacious with very comfortable beds.
CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel – Best 5-star
Located just a short stroll away from Taksim Square, this luxurious hotel boasts amazing views of the Bosphorus Strait. The excellent Spa centre features a swimming pool, sauna and a Turkish bath. At Izaka Terrace Restaurant, you can savour authentic Turkish and international dishes, and enjoy live music performances at Stella Lounge & Bar. You can opt for either a room or an apartment and I suggest booking a room with a Bosphorus view for a unique experience.
Marlon Hotel – Best 3-star
Marlon Hotel is a great budget-friendly option just steps from Taksim Square. The rooms are modern, clean, and comfortable. There’s no breakfast included, but with so many cafés and eateries right outside, you won’t have any trouble finding a great spot to start your day.
Best hotels near Istanbul Airport
Istanbul Airport (IST) is the city’s main international airport and one of the largest in the world. It is located about 40 km (25 miles) northwest of the city centre, near the Black Sea. The airport is the hub for Turkish Airlines and handles the majority of international traffic in and out of Türkiye.
The M11 metro line now connects Istanbul Airport to the city’s metro network, but it only goes as far as Kağıthane. From there, you’ll need to transfer to another metro line or catch a bus to reach your hotel. Keep in mind, there are quite a few stairs along the way, which can be tricky if you’re carrying luggage.
That’s why I’d recommend taking a taxi (around 3,000 TRY to the Sultanahmet area) or booking a private transfer instead. Depending on traffic, the drive can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours. If you go with public transport, expect the journey to take closer to 2–3 hours. I’ve done both, and I definitely recommend going for the easier option if your budget allows.
If you need a hotel right next to Istanbul Airport, keep in mind there’s only one within walking distance, Yotel, and it’s quite basic. For more comfort, you’ll need to book a hotel a bit farther away and use their airport shuttle service or a taxi. With that in mind, here are the best hotels near Istanbul Airport if you have an early flight to catch.
Yotel – Nearest to Istanbul Airport
Yotel is located on the Departures floor inside the main terminal building, making it the only hotel within walking distance of the airport. The rooms are small but modern and comfortable, perfect for a quick overnight stay before an early flight.
İstport Garden Hotel – Best 5-star
If you’re looking for a more comfortable stay near the airport, İstport Garden Hotel is a great choice. It’s just a 15-minute drive from the terminal, and while the hotel offers an airport transfer, it is a bit pricey. I’d recommend taking a taxi (around 600 TRY), which is the better option. The rooms are modern and spacious, and the included breakfast is a nice bonus.
FAQs about where to stay in Istanbul
The best hotel in Istanbul is the Garden House Hotel. Located in the historic Sultanahmet district, this hotel is only a short walk from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Their Garden 1897 restaurant, serving Ottoman and Anatolian cuisines, is excellent as well.
If you’re visiting Istanbul for the first time and prefer easy access to tourist sites, stay in Sultanahmet. This is the historic heart of the city, home to iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.
The best place to stay in Istanbul for tourists is the Cağaloğlu neighbourhood, situated on the European side of the city. By staying here, you’ll be within walking distance of the city’s iconic attractions such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Galata Tower and the ferry terminals.
Stay in Sultanahmet. This is the most central and historic part of Istanbul, where you’ll find all iconic sites, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Taksim is approximately 30 minutes away from all the popular tourist spots by public transport, so you’ll be quite distant from everything.
No, Kadıköy is not a good choice for people visiting for the first time or sightseeing. Situated on the Asian side of Istanbul, Kadıköy is about an hour away from tourist attractions, requiring a combination of public transportation and a ferry ride. I would recommend it only if you’re staying in Istanbul for a few weeks and want to experience a neighbourhood with a local feel.
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