Istanbul is a vibrant and bustling city that offers a rich cultural experience for its visitors. There are numerous accommodation options in Istanbul, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. In this post, we will explore the best areas to stay in Istanbul and some of the top hotel options in each area.
Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet is the heart of Istanbul’s Old City and is home to many of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. Staying in this area will give you easy access to these attractions, as well as the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar. The hotels in Sultanahmet are mostly boutique-style, with traditional Ottoman-style decor.
Some of the top hotels in Sultanahmet are:
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet: This luxury hotel is housed in a former prison and offers stunning views of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
Hotel Amira Istanbul: This boutique hotel offers modern amenities and Ottoman-inspired decor.
Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel Istanbul: This hotel features a rooftop restaurant with views of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
Beyoglu
Beyoglu is located on the European side of Istanbul and is a trendy area with a vibrant nightlife. The area is home to Istiklal Street, a bustling pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Beyoglu is also home to the Galata Tower, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.
Some of the top hotels in Beyoglu are:
Pera Palace Hotel: This historic hotel was built in the late 19th century and has hosted many famous guests, including Agatha Christie.
The House Hotel Karakoy: This boutique hotel is housed in a former bank building and features modern decor and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.
Georges Hotel Galata: This hotel is located just steps away from the Galata Tower and features a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city.
Besiktas
Besiktas is located on the European side of Istanbul and is a popular residential and commercial district. The area is home to many restaurants, cafes, and shops, as well as the Dolmabahce Palace and the Bosphorus Bridge.
Some of the top hotels in Besiktas are:
Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul: This luxury hotel is located on the banks of the Bosphorus and features stunning views of the water and the city.
Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus: This hotel is located in the heart of Besiktas and features modern amenities and stunning views of the Bosphorus.
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul: This hotel is located in a historic building and features luxurious rooms with views of the Bosphorus and the city.
Overall, Istanbul has a wide variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. The best area to stay in Istanbul largely depends on your interests and preferences, but Sultanahmet, Beyoglu, and Besiktas are all great options to consider.
Photo by : Ismailcaliskan