Istanbul

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About Istanbul

Every city is unique, but there's nowhere even akin to Istanbul. Straddling two continents, Istanbul is historically one of the world’s most important cities, and has always been a place of vibrant fusion between east and west. The last stronghold of the Roman Empire, the beating heart of the Byzantine Empire and the Ottoman capital, Istanbul's history is one of dramatic sieges and conquests, and of immense trading wealth. Much of Istanbul's glorious past is still visible and visitable. Amongst the famous domes of mosques and graceful Orthodox churches visitors can see the Roman catacombs, Byzantine battlements and Ottoman palaces — many of which have now been converted into some of the best places to stay in Istanbul. Istanbul’s variety is reflected in its huge range of hotels, from simple, traditional guesthouses and romantic hotels to grand, converted palaces, chic designer boutique pads and everything in between.

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Istanbul spreads out on either side of the Bosphorus river, in both Europe and Asia, and there are important sights, and sites, on both sides of the river. And Istanbul is big too, it doesn’t just straddle the river it spreads out beyond, into 39 different districts. Our Gurus have hotels to recommend on both sides of the river, and in several particularly appealing pockets along the Bosphorus and Golden Horn as well. Because, more so than in some other cities, Istanbul’s districts all have their own characters, as well as their own looks and appeal, it’s worth trying to base yourself in a part of town which caters to your interests, though of course there’s an extensive public transport system, with buses, trams, trains and ferries.

Don't forget that this city is a popular year round destination, so if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Istanbul, we'd advise you to book well ahead to avoid disappointment.

The Best Places to Stay in Istanbul

In the Historic Sultanahmet District

The Four Seasons Hotel Sultanahmet is arguably one of the real gems in the Four Seasons brand. Its historic location is hard to beat, and from the roof terrace you get incredible views of the spires, domes and minarets of Sultanahmet. And, this elegant historic building has actually been converted from a prison! But you’d never guess, because each of its 65 rooms and suites have been individually, and warmly, decorated, and its restaurant, in the inner courtyard which was once the exercise yard, offers some of the best modern Turkish food in the world.
The Seven Hills Hotel is a charming boutique hotel with just 18 rooms and suites, in a fantastic spot which allows for its roof terrace restaurant to overlook the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace. The building was built during the Ottoman era, and the decor remembers that.
The Ibrahim Pasha Hotel also offers views from its roof terrace of the Blue Mosque, and other highlights of the Istanbul skyline, and its 24 rooms and suites are chic and comfortable, with a Turkish flavour, large living spaces and outdoor terraces.

For out-and-out luxury

Built for Sultans in the mid-19th century, and briefly the Turkish parliament, the Çirağan Palace Kempinski is about as magnificent and palatial as they come, stretching 300 metres along the Bosphorus, part of which is a huge pool and terraces, with views of the Golden Horn too. The most opulent rooms and suites are in the restored palace, along with the impressive restaurant and reception, and there’s another block housing the simpler of the 313 rooms and the sumptuous spa.
The Ajwa Hotel is a beautiful, five star hotel which really champions the luxury of Ottoman design in its opulence. Think intricately carved and inlaid furnishings and bathrooms with incredible tiles. It’s located close to the bazaars, and within a short walk of the main, historic sites of Sultanahmet. Plus it has an impressive spa and an Azerbaijani restaurant with a panoramic view.

For a city break

The Fer Hotel is a classic city break hotel: in an ideal location between the Sultanahmet district and the bazaars, and with 65 chic, fairly minimalist rooms and suites, and an architecturally impressive lobby. The views are great, and so is the restaurant.
If you’re looking for something smaller try the Hotel Witt Istanbul Suites, which has just 18 loft-style suites, each with their own kitchenette, wood floors, and large living spaces with design-led furnishings. There’a also a fantastic roof terrace with incredible views. And you’re in trendy Beyoğlu.
The Tomtom Suites are a collection of 20 rooms, converted from a former convent. They’re chic and minimal in style, in a central location, just minutes from one of the best shopping streets in Istanbul. Like so many of our recommendations, the Tomtom Suites benefit from a fantastic roof terrace bar and bistro.
From the outside, Galata Antique is a neoclassical, 19th century mansion, but it’s a totally different story inside, where this mansion has been converted into a boutique hotel, with 22 rooms and suites, all individually, and tastefully, decorated. Expect high ceilings, marble bathrooms, and well used original features.
SuB Karakoy, in Karaköy, is a hip choice. This design hotel has an industrial maritime theme, and a cool cafe and bar. You’re close to a raft of interesting places to visit, and lots of choice when it comes to restaurants, and you’re still only about 15 minutes walk from Sultanahmet. They do a full Turkish breakfast to the room as standard.

For romance

The Georges Hotel Galata is small and elegant, with a fantastic French restaurant on a gorgeous roof terrace offering views of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. There are just 20 rooms and suites, which have been simply decorated to show off the original features.
Also in a great spot in the beautiful Galata district, Adahan, is the stylishly converted top floor of an elegant building built in 1874. Restored to its original, impressive style, the 40 rooms and suites of this hotel have high ceilings, wooden floors and large windows, and the architect owner has amassed attractive, period furnishing to decorate it. The rooftop bar and restaurant offers incredible views and Turkish cuisine.
Affordable and romantic, HHK is a quiet, 21 room hotel in a traditional Turkish neighbourhood close to the Golden Horn and the bazaars. The rooms and suites are decorated with gilt mirrors and antique-style furniture, and there’s a roof terrace with great city views and a swimming pool.

For families

The Amira Hotel is a stylish, affordable, 35 room hotel in a fantastic spot in the Sultanahmet district, so you’re within walking distance of many of Istanbul’s main sights. Their family rooms are a good size, and all of the rooms have contemporary decor, with parquet floors and a plush, cosy feel. The restaurant and terrace have fantastic views.

For a Water View

Lots of Istanbul’s hotels have water views, but few are as idyllic as those from the windows and terraces of The House Hotel Bosphorus. This isn’t a city central hotel, it’s in Ortaköy, a fishing village which was long ago absorbed into Istanbul, but the location is quiet and beautiful, and the 26 rooms and suites are spacious and stylish. This is a good choice for families too.

For great value

The Hotel Sari Konak is an elegant Sultanahmet base, with incredible views of the Maramara Sea, the city, and especially of the Blue Mosque, which you can enjoy from the roof terrace. There are 23 rooms and suites, with large family suites that accommodate up to four people, and offer the hotel’s best views. The rooms have wood floors, cream furnishings and Turkish artefacts.
The Empress Zoe is also in a great Sultanahmet location, close to the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace, though because it’s been so carefully converted from an Ottoman residence, it feels like something of a hideaway. There are 26 rooms and suites, furnished with antiques, including Turkish rugs and wall hangings, and Islamic folk art, but they also have all the mod. cons., and it has a roof terrace with a view and pretty garden too. Plus it’s nextdoor to a 15th century hammam.
The Ansen Suites are a great little collection of apartments, complete with dining space and kitchenettes, in a bustling part of Istanbul close to the Fish Markets and the Modern Art Museum. There are just ten apartments, all laid out differently, but all decorated with contemporary style.

Prefer an apartment or private villa?

If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner, booking.com.

Travel Information

Istanbul has two airports, Istanbul New Airport, which is on the European side of the city, and the Sabiha Gökçen Airport on the Asian side. From Atatürk Airport you can catch the Metro to Zeytinburnu, and then change for the trams. If you plan on using public transport a lot it’s worth buying a Istanbulkart Travel Card, which you can add credit to throughout your visit. It takes between 40 minutes and an hour to get into Sultanahmet. Sabiha Gökçen is connected by bus, which takes just over an hour to get into Sultanahmet. Cruise ships dock at Karaköy, which is very central, and while it is still possible to arrive in Istanbul by train, just like in the days of the Orient Express, it’s now quite a marathon journey involving a lot of changes.
If you’re thinking about hiring a car we recommend checking what our online partners, Rentalcars have to offer.
Istanbul is big enough to have several different micro climates, and there are definitely parts of the city that are hotter, more humid, and wetter, at different times of year. Broadly you could say that it’s warm and fairly dry. Summers can be stiflingly hot, with average daily maximums hovering between 28 and 30°C. But the months before and after summer, April to May and September and October, are very pleasant, with plenty of sunshine. Winter is cold, so cold that there’s even the possibility of snow come the end of January and February.

Still not sure which is the best place to stay in Istanbul?

We feature more of our Istanbul recommendations on our full list of the best places to stay in Istanbul.
Explore our pick of the best places to stay in Turkey
Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.

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The best hotels in Istanbul

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Ansen Suites

Istanbul (Beyoğlu)

A sophisticated collection of apartments with kitchenettes in a bustling area of Istanbul. Chic contemporary suites have parquet floors, quirky interior design, all the mod cons and stand alone bath tubs. A stylish spot for couples and families.

City Style
Sights nearby - Many sites accessible on foot including the Istanbul Modern Art Museum
Local markets - A short walk from the Fish Market
Restaurant

from $58 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees