🇹🇷 If you’re heading to Istanbul and in the process of planning where to stay… then read my guide on the best areas, districts and hotels for your visit!
Istanbul is big… so big that it spreads across two continents, in case you didn’t know. On the European side of Istanbul the main areas to stay are Fatih and Beyoğlu. While on the Asian side of Istanbul it’s Kadiköy and Üsküdar.
Within these four larger areas of Istanbul, I will help you select the best districts for your vacation needs. And I also recommend our favourite hotels and places to stay. Istanbul is one of our favourite cities and we’ve been back multiple times. That means we know a thing or two about where to stay and what to do in Istanbul!
I’m always looking for the kind of blog that gives me a handful of hotels, with some personal recommendations. When I began my search online for our most recent stay in Istanbul, I couldn’t find the post that simply told me where to stay, and which hotels to consider. So if you’ve turned up here with the same search intent as I did, then I hope this helps!
This guide, sheds light on four of the best areas to stay, and eight of the best hotels to book for an unforgettable Istanbul holiday. As well as some bonus entries here and there. IF you still have questions, please get in touch and I can help you find something that’s right for you.
* This post may contain affiliate links that may earn me a small commission should you decide to click through and make a valid purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thanks for your support!
Table of Contents
Understanding the Areas of Istanbul
🕌 Fatih – European Side – Historic centre (map – 🔴)
🚋 Beyoğlu – European Side – Newer contemporary district (map – 🟣)
🍸 Kadiköy – Asian Side – Cafes and food scene (map – 🔵)
⛴️ Üsküdar – Asian Side – Off the beaten track (map – 🟢)
Firstly, I’ll share a summary of each of the areas in Istanbul worth staying in. This will help paint the picture of the city as a whole, before I narrow in on the best hotels, in the best neighbourhoods. I’ll give you all the options, to help you make the best informed choice for your holiday!
Fatih – Sultanahmet
I’ve you’ve read any of my guides, or done a bit of research, you may already know that Sultanahmet is a popular spot to stay. Sultanahmet is a small neighbourhood located in the larger Fatih area. Other smaller, sometimes overlapping neighbourhoods in and around Fatih worth mentioning, are Binbirdirek, Eminönü, Cankurtaran, Fener and Balat. I highlight Sultanahmet because it’s the closest to the sights, it’s walkable, family friendly and has good vibes. 😎
Sultanahmet is widely known as the historic heart of Istanbul and is walking distance to the main sites. For example in just minutes you can be exploring the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sofia, the Basilica Cistern, the Topkapi Palace and more!! This area is also called the Sultanahmet Urban Archaeological Park, and is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.
Also within Fatih are the UNESCO historic walls of Constantinople, the Grand Bazaar and the Zeyrek Mosque. Fatih district encompasses the southern peninsula on the European side of Istanbul. It is separated from Beyoğlu by the Golden Horn river. Not to be mistaken as the Asian side of Istanbul. Many visitors assume the body of water between Fatih and Beyoğlu is the divide between Europe and Asia. But this is not the case!
To sum up, Sultanahmet is the BEST place to visit if you want to be in the heart of the old district. It’s full of the quintessential sights and sounds that represent Istanbul, but also many restaurants, shopping spots such as the Arasta Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar. It’s fun, it’s busy and it’s the best spot to visit if you’re a first-timer to Istanbul or travelling with young children.
Read My Review: My favourite hotel in Sultanahmet!
Beyoğlu
Next up on the list, on the northern side of the Golden Horn, is Beyoğlu. This is the newer district of Istanbul and includes locations like the Galata Tower, Taksim Square, Istiklal Avenue and the trendy district of Karaköy.
Getting around Beyoğlu is very easy with the public transport system. Options include the tram that runs along Istiklal Avenue, the funicular which connects Kabataş (on the Bosphorus) to Taksim Square. And the metro runs deep underground.
But also everything is also very accessible on foot. Just note that this can include some steep inclines as Beyoğlu is a steady upward walk all the way from the water to Taksim Square.
It’s worth mentioning that the district Karaköy, is divided into two parts. One in the Galata Tower neighbourhood, and the other beside the Bosphorus. Near the Galata tower option there are many Airbnb and boutique accommodation options, while by the Bosphorus, you’ll find many 5 star hotels.
This is a great destination perhaps if it’s your second visit to Istanbul, or if you prefer not to be in the tourist centre. I would also tend to recommend Beyoğlu to couples more than families.
Kadiköy
Moving from the European side of Istanbul to the Asian side, first up we have Kadiköy. A 20 minute ferry ride across the Bosphorus and you’ll be in a whole new continent. It certainly feels like a different place, though perhaps not at first glance.
With time, once you dig a bit deeper, you’ll discover that Kadiköy is the place to go for food, for bars, for giant second-hand markets, and also local food markets. Further to the south is a small district called Moda famous for its cafe scene. This little gem is great for picnics or sunsets on the promenade overlooking the Marmara sea, they even have a vintage tramline. Alternatively wander through the young hip rural district of Yeldeğirmeni for a glimpse of street art and murals.
There’s certainly a different energy about Kadiköy! I always feel like a visit to this side of Istanbul shares a window into the real–life of Istanbul. People are busy, going about their day, there’s a fast paced local energy about it!
Kadiköy suits travellers who want off that beaten tourist track.
Üsküdar
Directly north of Kadiköy, also on the Asian side is Üsküdar. It spans a large area, and runs at a quieter pace than the other three locations above. Naturally, this also means, there is less to see and do in the way of major attractions.
Perched in the distance you can see the Çamlıca Tower, a recently constructed observation deck that towers over Istanbul. As well as the Grand Çamlıca Mosque, the biggest in Istanbul. Both would require some public transport navigation to get to, or a 15 minute journey by car.
The colourful old houses in Kuzguncuk are located on a very cute street, and right next door is a beautiful community garden. Further to north is the Beylerbeyi Palace and the Anadolu (hisarı) Fort. But probably one of my favourite things to do is head to Kanlıca by ferry or bus, and to try the local flavoured yoghurt. You eat it straight from the tub!
As you can see Üsküdar is certainly a more unique experience, and suits visitors who appreciate this kind of place. Personally I would find it a little quiet as a base, but loved exploring it by bus, ferry and foot for a day.
Where to Stay in Istanbul
In the following section we’ll zoom in on each area in Istanbul, and I’ll share my recommendations on the best place to stay. I’ll also provide a list of the best hotels with an assortment to meet every budget.
Some photos are my own, some are courtesy of Booking.com.
Hotel Poem – Fatih | Sultanahmet
🛏️ Boutique – 19 Rooms
🌊 Sea view rooms available
🇹🇷 Locally owned and run
🍳 The VERY best breakfast in Istanbul!
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Family friendly
🚶 7 Minute walk to the Hagia Sophia Mosque
🌱 Sustainable certified
💵 Cost – budget to midrange
🪶 Use my discount code – SHARONPOEM30
💙 Booking rating: Exceptional 9.5
As I already mentioned, if it’s your first time to Istanbul then Sultanahmet is where you want to stay. Straight up, no exception to the rule, this is simply the best spot in Istanbul. In terms of hotel then I recommend Hotel Poem, this is where we stayed on our most recent return.
One of the best things about Hotel Poem is the street it’s located on. Not only is it in the best district for a first time visit, but the hotel is also positioned on a quiet cul-de-sac street. This means it’s quiet, safe and feels more intimate. The moment you step through the front door you feel super welcomed by the team and the breakfast is one of the best I’ve ever had in Istanbul.
The rooms are fun – connected to famous authors and artists throughout the decades, who have been inspired by Istanbul. And so each room has been lovingly decorated and curated. As well as being exceptionally clean, we love that it’s a sustainable property.
To sum up, I highly recommend Hotel Poem. In my opinion, after closely examining all the properties in this article, Hotel Poem really does offer the best value for money.
😍💰🍷 Note: Hotel Poem have offered my readers a generous discount code of 30% off, and a complimentary bottle of Turkish wine if you book directly through their website. So don’t forget to save and use my code SHARONPOEM30.
Hotel Peninsula – Fatih | Sultanahmet
🛏️ 15 Rooms
🍳 Breakfast from the terrace with sea views
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Family friendly
🚶 6 Minute walk to the Hagia Sophia Mosque
💵 Cost – budget to midrange
💙 Booking rating: Wonderful 9.1
We stayed here at Hotel Peninsula the very first time we visited Istanbul, based on a Lonely Planet recommendation. And honestly it met our needs at the time as budget travellers. The rooms were small but comfortable and the team were helpful and friendly.
It’s also in a lovely quiet little street in the Sultanahmet district, very close to the Historic Centre. So if it’s a no-frills, simple room, close to the sights and sounds, then this is a great option.
Bonus Hotel Options in Fatih
Given the size and potential for hotel options in the greater Fatih area, I’ve added a couple of extras here. All apart from the Petrion Hotel are within walking distance from the main historic sights. Petrion Hotel is actually located in the Balat and Fener district. This is great for a unique stay, but you would need to be comfortable with the public transport system to get around.
- AJWA Hotel Sultanahmet – 14 minute walk to the Hagia Sophia Mosque
- Hotel Miniature – 7 minute walk to the Hagia Sophia Mosque
- Hotel Saint Sophia – 3 minute walk to the Hagia Sophia Mosque
- Petrion Hotel – Balat – 53 minute walk to the Hagia Sophia Mosque
World House Boutique Hotel Galata – Beyoğlu
🛏️ 15 Rooms
🍳 Breakfast & coffee shop available onsite
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Suitable for families with slightly older children
🌱 Sustainable certified
💵 Cost – mid-range to upscale
💙 Booking rating: Wonderful 9.5
The World House Boutique Hotel is located in one of my favourite areas in Beyoğlu. What makes this area stand out, is the history, the galleries, the boutique shopping and of course the Galata Tower and cafes laden with the famous San Sebastián cheesecake, served with liquid chocolate.
Located in a historic building, World House Boutique Hotel dates back to the 1890s. Note however, that there is no elevator, so expect some stair climbing, especially if you’re on the top floor. Speaking of which, from the suite room with private terrace you have great views of the Galata Tower as well as the sea. Overall the hotel receives great reviews, the rooms are spacious, stylish and modern.
The Wings Hotels Collection – Beyoğlu
🛏️ One of the four Wings Hotels properties in Istanbul
🍳 Good breakfast
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Family friendly
💵 Cost – budget to mid-range
💙 Booking rating: Excellent 8.7
Another one of my favourite recommendations for Beyoğlu is the Wings Hotels Collection. This is one hotel of a larger group of four hotels. It’s colourful and vibrant with an architectural and interior flare.
It is conveniently located in the middle of Taksim Square, Istiklal Avenue and Galata Tower. So very central on the Beyoğlu side of the city.
Ikiz Konak Boutique Hotel – Kadiköy
🛏️ 14 rooms
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Only children over 13 can stay here
💵 Cost – budget to midrange
💙 Booking rating: Wonderful 9.3
This cute little boutique hotel is on my list to stay next time we’re in Istanbul. Though I’ve visited Kadiköy (on the Asian side) a number of times now, we’ve never stayed there. I was so close to doing it during our most recent visit but never did. And the gorgeous, historic Ikiz Konak Hotel will be where I stay.
The location is pretty good, close to all the good public transport options, such as bus, ferry to the European side and also metro. In addition, it’s in the young artsy area of Yeldeğirmeni, therefore is off the tourist path, and surrounded by funky cafes.
You’ll notice the overhanging bay windows, traditional of historic Ottoman style. Keeping this heritage, the owners of the Ikiz Konak Boutique Hotel have kept the design authentic, but have elevated it with a simple contemporary style.
Dekalb Hotel – Kadiköy
🛏️ 27 Rooms
🌊 Sea view rooms available
🍳 Excellent breakfast optional
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Family friendly
🌱 Sustainable certified
💵 Cost – mid-range to upscale
💙 Booking rating: Wonderful 9.3
This is a good stay for the holidaymakers looking for a little bit more luxury, and those who want to be in the heart of Kadiköy. The rooms are the kind with high loft-style ceilings and the decoration is classic. If you select a sea facing room, you’ll have lovely views over the Bosphorus.
Interestingly the building dates back over 100 years, and was converted (this decade) from a factory into the beautiful Dekalb Hotel that it is now. Also super close to the ferry terminal, Sultanahmet (Eminönü) and Beyoğlu (Karaköy) are a short ferry ride. So this is a really interesting location, if you want to be away from the everyday trodden tourist trail.
Conveniently they also have a restaurant onsite, which provides breakfast, lunch and dinner. Read the reviews and you’ll get a sense straight away of the friendly team and the overall praise for Dekalb Hotel.
Kuzguncuk View Guest House – Üsküdar
🛏️ 4 Rooms
🌊 Sea view rooms available
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Family friendly
💵 Cost – mid-range
💙 Booking rating: Excellent 8.8
For the travellers who want to experience Istanbul like a local, then check out the Kuzguncuk View Guest House. This is a quiet village on the Asian side of Istanbul, that has a cute cafe scene, and beautiful Ottoman style architecture. The town has a number of beautiful historical homes, with overhanging bay windows, they’re also colourfully painted. Walking through town is a breath of fresh air!
This guest house is directly on the Bosphorus, making Kuzguncuk a beautiful area to wander and walk on a sunny day. It’s actually one of my personal favourite districts in Istanbul. The other thing I like about the location is that it’s right across the road from the Kuzguncuk Ferry Terminal, and is also right on the bus line. We’ve used both and found the Google Maps directed us to and from Kuzguncuk with ease.
The rooms are large, so really suited to a family wanting the extra space. Another nice touch is the small kitchenette and couch, which naturally offers more comfort.
Bosphorus Palace Hotel – Üsküdar
🛏️ 12 Luxury rooms
🌊 Sea view rooms
🍳 Excellent breakfast
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Family friendly
💵 Cost – upscale
💙 Booking rating: Exceptional 9.6
I’ve saved a goodie for last my friends. The Bosphorus Palace Hotel is somewhere really very special. It’s located directly on the Bosphorus, complete with boat service and all. In terms of venue, this is the kind that suits a wedding, special event, or a romantic getaway for couples. The hotel is a historic building, of Neo-Ottoman style and with gold-leaf furnishing and lush interiors, it perfectly fits the palace profile.
Nearby is the Beylerbeyi Palace, just 10 minutes on foot. Kuzguncuk village is also very handy, a short journey by bus or taxi. Their Boathouse Restaurant offers a delicious menu right on the Bosphorus, available for lunch and dinner.
In short, the Bosphorus Palace Hotel is a super unique place to stay in Istanbul, but probably not suitable if it’s your first time. So keep this hotel on your list for a special occasion.
Map of the Best Hotels to Stay in Istanbul
More on Türkiye
I’m always working on new content for Istanbul, so if you were inspired by this guide then you might also like these posts below.
🎈 Where to stay in Cappadocia – the best cave hotels with a view
🧼 What to expect from a hammam in Istanbul
🌍 The only 4 day itinerary you’ll even need for Istanbul!
🧑🍳 Browse the best Istanbul food tours for your visit
💎 A guide to the top unique things to do in Istanbul
📌 Don’t forget to save this article on where to stay in Istanbul for later!
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