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Karakoy is a great neighbourhood from whichto explore Istanbul. From the charming, historic buildings, adorned with explosions of modern art and graffiti, to the bustling fish market, it's a lively, authentic place, vibrating with life and adventure. Its proximity to attractions is another boon. It's a short walk from Galata Tower, and a tram ride to the Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar. The best hotels in Karakoy are a fine selection of historic stays, stylish hotels and chic guestrooms right in the city's heart.
For luxury
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- Though only opened in 2023, The Peninsula Istanbul has already made a name for itself as one of the best luxury hotels in Istanbul. It lives and breathes sophistication, from afternoon tea on the terrace over the Bosphorus to the lavish, designer rooms fitted with mirrored surfaces, marble bathrooms and modern art. It has a touch of old Turkish luxury too: Silk Road-inspired cuisine in the rooftop restaurant, plus a hammam and two swimming pools. A five-star wunderkind that will take your breath away.
For something chic
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- If you're looking for something chic, SuB Karakoy is the place to go. This small, effortlessly cool design hotel is as trendy as Karakoy itself, with its exposed brickwork, big windows, and neon lights. The bohemian bar is a great place to hang out and meet fellow travellers, and you will melt into your room's anti-stress mattress after a long day of sightseeing.
For couples
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- 10 Karakoy glitters with elegance and sophistication, so if you're a couple looking for a chic city stay in Istanbul, look no further. Set in a historic building, its stylish, minimalist rooms provide a cooling retreat after a day out in the bustling city streets. Couples will love the enchanting city views from the penthouse suite. Divine!
For something historic
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- There's a sense of old world nobility at The Bank Hotel, a gloriously restored luxury design hotel set in a historic bank. Many of the original features remain: the high ceilings in the lobby, and the columns and large windows in the restaurant. Yet it is packed with modern luxuries. The elegant rooms come with their rainforest showers, and the fine-dining at the riverside restaurant is exquisite. Relax with a cocktail on the terrace overlooking the glittering cigty lights.
On a budget
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- Cheers Porthouse is great value for money. Set in an Art Nouveau building, the chic rooms have explosions of colour amidst exposed brickwork and white walls. The bar downstairs is a fun place to meet people, and the ferry terminal is just a 2-minute walk away, making it the perfect stepping-stone for exploring the delights of Istanbul.
Still not sure?