Where to stay in Istanbul? – Best areas to stay in istanbul 🇹🇷

If you’re thinking of visiting Istanbul, don’t wait a second longer, take this as a sign to book and go. This is my favorite city in the whole world, and no matter how many times I visit, I’m not sure I can ever get enough of it. However, it’s important to know where to stay in Istanbul, because if you get it wrong, you’ll be stuck in Istanbul’s famous traffic for half of your vacation.

There are so many places to visit in Turkey, but I can’t count how many times I’ve traveled to Istanbul and stayed there. Several times I stayed for more than a month at a time and really felt like a local. It’s a city steeped in history that completely captivates you – you could call the whole city a kind of open-air museum, there are so many things to do. And the food, oh my life, the food!

Still, I can’t deny that it can be complicated for a first-time visitor to find their way around this huge metropolitan area. In this post, I’ll help you find the best area to stay in Istanbul so you have a good foundation for your exploration. I love this city so much that I’m already looking forward to your trip too!

The best areas for a stay in Istanbul

A quick look: The best areas to stay in Istanbul 👇

1. Sultanahmet: The best place for your first stay in Istanbul

If you are wondering where to stay in Istanbul for the first time, I would recommend Sultanahmet. It’s not the perfect neighbourhood (where is that?), but it’s home to most of Istanbul’s most important historical sites and you can get a feel for the city as a whole.

Here you will find the Grand Bazaar, the Zisternenbasilika, die Blaue Moschee, die Hagia Sofia and the Topkapı Palace. There are also countless hotels in this part of the city and a million cafes and restaurants (I haven’t counted).

Advantages of a stay in Sultanahmet

• They are located near the must-see attractions for first-time visitors
• One of the best places in Istanbul for iconic photo opportunities
• It’s pretty quiet after midnight, so you can sleep well here.
• It’s easy to get around from here by streetcar and bus
• Very multicultural and most people in the area speak English

Disadvantages of staying in Sultanahmet

• The food is not the best and quite overpriced – they’ll tell you it’s traditional, but it’s touristy-traditional
• If you are looking for a place to shop in Istanbul, this is not the place – you will only find souvenirs.
• If you are looking for a vibrant nightlife, you won’t find it here.

Best places to stay in Sultanahmet

There are countless accommodation options in Sultanahmet, including some very impressive hotels:

1. 👉 Radisson Hotel Istanbul Sultanahmet: If you are looking for accommodation in Istanbul and a central location is important to you, this hotel is a good choice. It also offers one of the best breakfasts I have ever experienced in a hotel, so you can feel energized and satisfied for the day ahead. 👉Click here for details.

2. 👉 Sultan Tughra Hotel: This hotel is one of the most unique accommodations in Istanbul and is located in a restored 100-year-old mansion. However, it is equipped with all the amenities you need and has a fantastic restaurant on site. 👉Click here for more information.

3. 👉 Agras Hotel: I really enjoyed my stay at this hotel, it was one of the cleanest and brightest hotels I have ever stayed in. It is also very centrally located and has everything you need for a good night’s sleep. 👉Click here for details.

The best activities in Sultanahmet

There’s plenty to see and do in Sultanahmet, but you should accept that you can’t do it all in one visit. Here are my most recommended points of interest:

1.Blue Mosque: The Blue Mosque is located in the heart of Sultanahmet, surrounded by beautiful gardens, directly opposite Hagia Sofia. The mosque is closed to visitors during prayer times, admission is free, but donations are always welcome. A guided tour is a good idea. Click here for details on the guided tour and hier für eine Wegbeschreibung.

2. Basilica Cistern: This underground attraction from the year 532 is a must-see. I loved the atmosphere as it felt like history was all around me and the echoes felt like ghosts from the past. Places like this are exactly why Sultanahmet is the best place for tourists to stay in Istanbul.

The only downside is the queues, but you can avoid that with a tour. Click here for tour details and klicken Sie hier für eine Wegbeschreibung.

3. Topkapi Palace: This huge palace and its breathtaking gardens were the official seat of the Ottoman sultans in Istanbul, and the opulence cannot be beaten. The view over the Bosphorus blew me away – it’s breathtaking. I took part in an audio tour, which really helped me to understand what I was seeing. Click here for booking information and klicken Sie hier für eine Wegbeschreibung.

Where to eat and drink in Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet is home to a variety of restaurants, many of which are worth the money, while others are not. Here are some of my top recommendations:

1. Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi Selim Usta: In my opinion, this restaurant has the best köfte in the area, and it’s been open since 1920, so that says a lot. For dessert, you should definitely try İrmik helvası, this is one of my favorites. Click here for directions.

2. Matbah Restaurant: There are many restaurants in Sultanahmet that claim to cook traditional Ottoman cuisine, but many don’t do it that well. This is not the case with Matbah. This restaurant is upscale and offers a wonderful view while you dine. Klicken Sie hier für eine Wegbeschreibung.

3. Şehzade Cağ Kebap: This is one of my favorite places in Istanbul; even if I don’t live in Sultanahmet, I go there just for this restaurant. Cağ kebap is a lamb dish that is prepared in this restaurant like nowhere else, and the locals love coming here. Click here for directions.

2. Taksim/Beyoglu: The best area in Istanbul for nightlife

If you want to know where to enjoy the nightlife in Istanbul, there’s no better place than Taksim und Beyoğlu. I connect these two areas because Taksim is in Beyoğlu, and they are basically one and the same.

Taksim is undoubtedly one of the best areas in Istanbul if you want a vibrant experience, but it’s also one of those places where you need to use common sense when it comes to safety (take regular precautions, such as not walking with large amounts of cash and not showing valuables).

However, this does not mean that Taksim is dangerous – quite the opposite. I have often spent time in Taksim and enjoyed the atmosphere of the city that never sleeps. The Istiklal Street is lively at any time of day or night and is home to numerous bars, cafés, restaurants, clubs and even museums along and behind the street.

There’s not much you won’t find in Taksim, making it a good choice for people who like the fast-paced city life.

Advantages of a stay in Taksim/Beyoğlu

• Best place to stay in Istanbul for nightlife
• The shopping opportunities here are fantastic
• Many international restaurants and a few local restaurants
• Central location with two metro stations
• Many accommodation options

Disadvantages of staying in Taksim/Beyoğlu

• It is not unknown for Taksim to be a hotspot for trouble from time to time, especially Taksim Square
• The nightclubs don’t close until very late at night, often not until around 6 a.m., which means a lot of noise.
• The area is very busy and a walk along Istiklal Street can be exhausting, especially on weekends
• High prices in bars and restaurants

Best places to stay in Taksim/Beyoğlu

The Taksim/Beyoğlu offers a range of accommodations, from budget to luxury. Consider staying in one of the options listed below:

1. 👉 Endless Comfort Hotel Taksim: The name and nature of this hotel is synonymous with comfort, and I found it to be a great base for exploring the center of Istanbul. The rooms are spacious and the location is unbeatable. If you are looking for Istanbul hotels close to the nightlife, I would recommend this hotel. Click here for details.

2. 👉 Lucis Pera: The Pera district of Beyoğlu is the oldest, and there are some great hotels there, including this one. It’s a fairly upscale option, and the continental breakfast is of very high quality. Click here for details.

3. 👉 Cihangir Residences: I found this apartment hotel very good value for money and the restaurant on the top floor has a great view. Each room has a kitchenette, which is great if you occasionally want to make your own breakfast. Click here for details.

The best activities in Taksim/Beyoğlu

Now you know where to stay in the city center of Istanbul. What is there to see and do in Taksim/Beyoğlu?

1. Nostalgic İstiklal Caddesi tram: A ride on this streetcar, which runs from Taksim Square down Istiklal Street, should be on your itinerary (although it’s small, so you’ll have to queue to get on). This way you can explore Istiklal without having to fight your way through the crowds. Click here for directions.

2. Modern City Walking Tour: Taksim has many winding alleyways that are home to old bookshops, boutiques and museums, and without a guide you could miss a lot of it. This tour is a good choice, and I enjoyed having a knowledgeable guide who showed me some hidden gems. Click here for more information.

3. Taksim Monument of the Republic: In the heart of Taksim Square you will find this huge monument, which is one of the most famous sights in the area. The statue was erected in honor of the founding of the Turkish Republic in 1923 and is an absolute must for your photo collection. Click here for directions.

Where to eat and drink in Taksim/Beyoğlu

Taksim is the best place in Istanbul when it comes to nightlife, but there are also some very good restaurants. Take a look at the ones below:

1. Corner Irish Bar: When I’m in Istanbul, I’m practically one of the locals at this place, which is so warm and welcoming. The food on offer is normal pub food, like burgers and pizza, but it’s very good. It’s also a great place to watch sports, and there are all kinds of beers and spirits to drink here. Click here for directions.

2. WAMA’s: I think I’ve tried almost everything on the menu at this restaurant, and I can tell you that the menu isn’t exactly small… The lasagna is killer, and the salads are fantastic. I would recommend this restaurant for families because it’s cozy and they don’t serve alcohol; the atmosphere is pretty relaxed. Klicken Sie hier für eine Wegbeschreibung.

3. Otantik Anadolu Yemekleri: This restaurant serves authentic Anatolian dishes and is a good choice for vegetarians. I appreciate the Turkish breakfast with its many different options that will keep you full even after lunch. Klicken Sie hier für eine Wegbeschreibung.

3. Galata: The coolest place to stay in Istanbul

There are many neighborhoods in Istanbul, but I don’t think any are as cool as Galata, which stretches right next to Taksim and Beyoğlu and includes the Galata-Turm umfasst. If you’re looking for accommodation in Istanbul and want a place that’s low-key but still exudes a certain hipster vibe, Galata is the place for you.

Here you will find small museums, cafés with live music, bookshops and many music stores selling interesting instruments. The only downside of Galata is that it’s on a very steep hill, so you’ll need comfortable shoes (and some stamina).

Advantages of a stay in Galata

• A quieter place compared to Taksim, but not too far from the nightlife
• Relaxed nightlife
• Some great cafés with reasonable prices
• Great for music fans
• Many small souvenir stores selling unique items

Disadvantages of staying in Galata

• The area near the Galata Tower is very crowded during the day and the sidewalks are narrow.
• Very hilly area, therefore not suitable for people with mobility problems
• Later at night it can be very quiet and dark

Best accommodations in Galata

Staying near the Galata Tower offers fantastic views, and there is some cheap accommodation in Istanbul in this area:

1. 👉Azzap Hotel Galata: This is one of the best places to stay in the center of Istanbul without being in the middle of the noise. In addition to its location, this hotel also offers fantastic views and a sophisticated atmosphere. Click here for details.

2. 👉 Frame Galata Hotel: I really enjoyed my stay at this hotel, which has a modern feel despite its old surroundings. The rooms are spacious and have kitchenettes, and there is a great restaurant on site if you don’t want to go out. Click here for details.

3. 👉 Art Karaköy Suites: This hotel is located at the lower end of Galata, towards Karaköy, but it offers a great location, and the hotel itself is very comfortable. I felt at home here and would definitely stay here again. Click here for details.

The best activities in Galata

Galata offers an unpretentious experience, but there is surprisingly much to do in such a small area.

1. Galata Tower: The view from the top of this historic watchtower is unlike anything you’ve probably ever seen before. I didn’t particularly like the narrowness of the tower, but if you go up in a line, it’s not a problem. I took part in a guided tour here and can only recommend it. Click here for details on the tour and click here for directions.

2. Galata Mevlevi House Museum: This is the best place to see an authentic dervish performance in Istanbul, and the museum will also help you learn more about what you’re seeing. However, it sells out quickly, so book early to avoid missing out. Click here for directions.

3. The Galata Bridge: The Galata Bridge is one of Istanbul’s landmarks and I have walked across it countless times to take photos. On both sides of the bridge you can see people fishing, selling bracelets and eating snacks.

If you walk down the stairs, you will see many fish restaurants, although these are the most expensive – there are cheaper and better ones in Taksim and Beşiktaş. Klicken Sie hier für eine Wegbeschreibung.

Where to eat and drink in Galata

Food also plays a role when looking for accommodation in Istanbul, and there are some great options in Galata. These are my favorite places in the area:

1. Süheyla: This little café is one of the best hidden gems in town and my first choice for breakfast. The traditional kahvalti (Turkish breakfast) here is exemplary, and you definitely won’t be hungry for a few hours afterwards. Click here for directions.

2. Galata Konak Cafe & Restaurant: This café doesn’t look like much from the outside, but if you walk up the stairs you have a fantastic view of the Goldene Horn. It’s also one of my favorite places for coffee and cake – be sure to try the trilece, a delicious milk cake. Click here for directions.

3. Pepo’s Galata: This slightly upmarket but reasonably priced restaurant is a good choice, especially for couples. The crispy Turkish ravioli is one of my favorite dishes here, and the desserts are divine. Klicken Sie hier für eine Wegbeschreibung.

4. Üsküdar: The best for families

Üsküdar is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and is a quieter neighborhood with good transport links to other parts of the city. If you are looking for accommodation for families in Istanbul, I would recommend this area. It’s a safe neighborhood in Istanbul, and it’s much more authentic, which makes for a relaxed experience.

Of course, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to see and do, and there are also some fantastic hotels in the area.

Advantages of a stay in Üsküdar

• One of the best places to stay near the center of Istanbul without being in the middle of the action
• Calm and relaxed
• Provides an authentic experience
• Large selection of gastronomic offerings
• Cheaper hotels compared to the European side

Disadvantages of a stay in Üsküdar

• You must use public transportation to get around.
• If you’re looking for nightlife, you’ll have to head to neighboring Kadıköy gehen.

The best accommodations in Üsküdar

Some might say Üsküdar is one of the posher areas of Istanbul, but there are some great hotels here, including some overlooking the Bosphorus. You can’t go wrong with one of the ones below:

1. 👉Sakine Hanim Mansion: Perhaps not for families, but a good choice if you are looking for accommodation for couples in Istanbul, this hotel is simply pure opulence. The rooms are beautifully decorated and have all the amenities you need – a fantastic place to stay. Click here for details.

2. 👉 May Otel Uskudar: What I liked most about this hotel was that it offered me everything I needed for a comfortable stay, but didn’t inflate the price with unnecessary extras. It’s also very centrally located and the rooms are large, making it ideal for families. Click here for more information.

3. 👉 216 Bosphorus Suite: This hotel offers open and spacious rooms with a fridge and kettle in every room, which is very convenient for guests with children. It is located right on the waterfront, and you can opt for a sea view to enhance your stay. Click here for more information.

The best activities in Üsküdar

When choosing where to stay in Istanbul, you also need to think about activities – luckily Üsküdar is easily accessible from many places:

1. Maiden’s Tower: On a small island in the Bosphorus stands this picturesque tower, which was built in the Byzantine period. There are many legends about why the tower was built, but today you can enjoy a delicious meal in the restaurant inside.

If you don’t want to enter the tower, you can sail past it on a Bosphorus tour. click here for tour details and hier für eine Wegbeschreibung.

2. Çamlıca Hill: I can’t put into words how breathtaking the panoramic view of the European side of the city is from this hill; it’s incredible. This huge open space is also ideal for letting children run free and blow off steam. There are cafes and picnic areas, but it’s just a wonderful place to enjoy the peace and quiet. Click here for directions.

3. Miniaturk: This huge open-air museum shows you the biggest attractions of the whole of Turkey in miniature form. So you can say you’ve “been” to a part of the country that is far, far away. Children will love exploring the various sights, and it’s also very interesting for adults. click here for tour information and hier für eine Wegbeschreibung.

Where to eat and drink in Üsküdar

The nightlife in Üsküdar is rather subdued, but this is ideal if you are traveling with children. Here are my top three places to visit:

1. Kanaat Lokantası: I love traditional Turkish food, but it’s not just about kebabs. In this restaurant you can try all kinds of stews, vegetarian dishes, rice, salads and desserts. It is a self-service restaurant, which means you can look at the dish and choose what you want. It’s also ideal for picky eaters. Click here for directions.

2. Çengelköy Tarihi Çınaraltı: This family-friendly café and restaurant is a great place to enjoy coffee and cake or a light meal such as a burger. There’s nothing wrong with breakfast here either. Klicken Sie hier für eine Wegbeschreibung.

3. Rainbow Cafe & Restaurant: If you’re looking for a restaurant that serves international and Turkish dishes in a relaxed atmosphere, you’ve come to the right place. It’s a great place for families, and the portions are generous. Click here for directions.

5. Besiktas: The best place in Istanbul for a small budget

Meiner Meinung nach ist Beşiktaş is one of the best neighborhoods in Istanbul and I have lived there many times. It’s a great neighborhood for foodies, and it’s also reasonably priced. If you’re looking for accommodation for groups in Istanbul, you’ll find some budget hotels and hostels here. But there are also some very upscale accommodations.

Beşiktaş is located directly on the waterfront and is a transportation hub with ferries to the Asian side and the Princes’ Islands, boat tours and buses running throughout the day. Kabataş streetcar station is only a 15-minute walk away. I love the welcoming feel of Beşiktaş, and although it’s very busy, it’s somehow also quite relaxed.

Advantages of a stay in Beşiktaş

• If you want to know where to stay in Istanbul to easily find your way around, this area is perfect for you
• Inexpensive food and drink
• An authentic experience
• A wide range of accommodation, from budget to luxury
• A good area for affordable shopping

Disadvantages of a stay in Beşiktaş

• The metro does not serve this area.
• Finding a cab can be extremely difficult, so you have to rely on buses, streetcars, ferries and footpaths.
• There’s a bit too much going on for families with small children

Best accommodations in Beşiktaş

Beşiktaş is a huge area that covers not only the central part but also down to Ortaköy, where the Bosphorus Bridge is located. Thanks to its size, there is a wide variety of accommodation to choose from:

1. 👉 Melas Hotel Istanbul: This hotel offers many facilities, and if you’re looking for accommodation in Istanbul with parking, you’ll find it here. The rooms are large and comfortable, and the free continental breakfast is more than enough to fill you up for the morning and beyond. Click here for more information.

2. 👉 Armoni Residence Istanbul: If you are looking for accommodation for a large group, I would highly recommend this aparthotel. The apartments are huge, have two bedrooms and offer a very cozy atmosphere. Click here for details.

3. 👉 CLK Suites: I’ve stayed at this hotel a few times and would definitely come back. It’s a cozy place and every room has a fridge, which is always very useful when you want to keep your drinks and snacks cool. Click here for details.

The best activities in Beşiktaş

Beşiktaş is the best area to stay in as a tourist in Istanbul outside of Sultanahmet because it’s so easy to get around and see some major sights. Don’t visit the city without seeing these sights:

1. Dolmabahce-Palast: I loved the Topkapı Palace, but for me the Dolmabahçe Palace wins hands down. The opulence is almost beyond comprehension, to the point where it brought tears to my eyes. A little tip: arrive early to avoid the queues, which can be very long, but I recommend taking a guided tour to get more clarity. click here for information on the tour and here for directions.

2. The Bosphorus Bridge in Ortaköy: Strictly speaking, it still belongs to Beşiktaş and you can reach it in about 20 minutes on foot. Not only is the bridge quite impressive, but the area around Ortaköy is also really great. Be sure to try kumpir (jacket potatoes with any number of toppings) and a huge waffle with all the trimmings. Click here for directions.

3. Yıldız Park: When looking for accommodation in Istanbul, you’ll find that there are more green spaces than you might have thought; Yıldız Park is one of my favorites. This huge open space is ideal for walking, and you can also do some bird watching. Click here for directions.

Where to eat and drink in Beşiktaş

Where should you go to eat in Istanbul? Definitely Beşiktaş – it’s one of the best places for street food:

1. Karadeniz Doner Kebab: I should point out that I don’t typically like kebab meat, but I do like this one. Karadeniz Döner has been around since the early 70’s, and you have to get in line early if you want to grab one of their famous sandwiches. Trust me, it’s worth it. Click here for directions.

2. Baruthane Pilavci Besiktas: I had the best chicken, rice and salad at this place and it may sound simple, but the flavors were out of this world. This place is very popular with the locals, so you know it’s good; after all, Beşiktaş is the best neighborhood for street food. Click here for directions.

3. Tostçu Mahmut Besiktas: This is no ordinary toasted sandwich, and I’ll admit I was a little skeptical at first, but I’m glad I gave it a try. It’s basically toast with chopped pepperoni, tomatoes, peppers and scrambled eggs, and it’s a real treat. Give it a try and see for yourself. Click here for details.

The best areas in Istanbul: FAQ’s

Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions about the best places to stay in Istanbul:

Conclusion

Finding accommodation in Istanbul is no easy task; don’t fall into the usual trap of just going for the nicest and cheapest hotel – we’re talking about a HUGE city here. I was shocked by the sheer size of the city on my first visit, but it’s surprisingly easy to find your way around once you’ve got your bearings.

For me, Istanbul is the best city in the world. It has everything you need, it’s steeped in history, it offers enough modern fun to keep even the most restless person busy, and the food is like nowhere else. Just go there: That’s the best advice I can give; you won’t be disappointed.