Best Place to Stay in Istanbul + My Favorite Neighborhood

Istanbul is a city like no other—a dynamic blend of history, culture, and energy. But with its vastness, finding the best place to stay in Istanbul can feel overwhelming without a bit of direction.

Since moving to Turkey in 2019, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring many of Istanbul’s distinct neighborhoods. Along the way, I’ve picked up some invaluable experiences of the city.

As I share them with you, you will be able to pair down a bit closer to the perfect hotel for your trip.

Although I haven’t personally stayed in every hotel mentioned, my connections within Istanbul’s expat community offer a wealth of firsthand experiences.

To create this list, I polled local groups and friends to gather the best recommendations across a range of budgets and neighborhoods, so you can feel confident about where you’re booking.

We’ll explore five diverse areas of Istanbul, each offering something unique. Whether you’re looking for luxury, comfort, or something in between, there’s a place to stay that will be perfect for you.

Let’s dive in and find your ideal place for your time in this unforgettable city.

My top 3 best places to Stay in Istanbul

#1 Top Pick – Best overall

Check Price

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Hammamhane (Galata/Beyoğlu)

✅ 10-15 minute walk to many tourist areas

✅ Comfortable beds

✅ Historical onsite Turkish Bathhouse called Cukurcuma Hammam (not incl.)

See full review below

#2 Top Pick – Best Apartment

Check Price

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Istanbul Place Apartments
(Galata/Beyoğlu)

✅ Great mix of prime location, views, and comfort

✅ Julia & Tarkan have created a warm and beautiful space

✅ All of the apartment options are absolutely incredible

See full review below with all locations

#3 Top Pick – Best Luxury

Check Price

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Mandarin Oriental
(Kuruçeşme/Beşiktaş)

✅ Childcare available

✅ Surrounded by green in one of the biggest cities in the world

✅ Best views in Istanbul

See full review below

Best Hotels in BEŞİKTAŞ/ŞİŞLİ

You will find more luxury and upper-scale everything in the Beşiktaş/Şişli area. The restaurants are the nicest, the food is the most international.

Beşiktaş has the best luxury hotels in Istanbul.

It is also a more residential area which means you can escape the tourist hubbub. You can even stay in an old Ottoman Palace that has been converted into a hotel.

While you can rent a car, taxis and rental cars are available as well as hiring a tour guide/driver for the day. Driving in Istanbul can be expensive and overwhelming.

Want to take home a souvenir that you’ll actually use? Why not buy a book in English from the cutest bookstore ever!

Legend for hotels

A well-known name internationally, Hilton Bosphorus won’t disappoint. Despite some renovations to older furniture and such, You will still enjoy excellent customer service, a comfy bed, and delicious food.

It is further inland than many of the hotels on this list, but it is still well-connected with the public transport system.

The Hilton Bosphorus is perfect for travelers looking to experience modern comfort, historic charm, and stunning Bosphorus views in the heart of Istanbul.

Even though the wifi can sometimes be slow, a common problem in Turkey, the views, pools, and incredible location more than make up for it.

You are just a short taxi ride to the best nightlife, upscale restaurants, and historical sites. Enjoy a little breather on the outskirts of all the tourist areas.

The Crowne Plaza Istanbul is perfect for guests seeking a seamless combination of modern amenities, a convenient location, and luxury spa amenities.

Raffles Istanbul – $$$$

⭐️ RATING: 9.2/10 | $$$$ ♻️ ♿️ ✴️ | ⭕️ LOCATION: Zorlu | ✅ Book it!

While it may say that it has a “view” of the Bosphorus, it is quite a ways away. That being said, the view is still spectacular, just not on the water.

You will be close to a big shopping mall and easy access to public transportation. The staff is attentive and ready to help you with anything you need and the food is delicious!

Raffles Istanbul is best suited for guests desiring a luxurious and culturally enriching experience just outside of all the chaos of the tourist areas.

The Mandarin Oriental Hotel offers you an unforgettable luxury experience.

Whether dining in the hotel’s signature restaurant or enjoying the breathtaking views of the Bosphorus in the rooftop lounge you will create unforgettable memories.

Beyond dining, the hotel’s spa is a haven of relaxation, offering you a range of indulgent treatments.

The Mandarin Oriental is perfect for those who seek an unparalleled blend of luxury, sophistication, and impeccable service in the heart of Istanbul.

Top Places to Stay in Beyoğlu

Beyoğlu is great if you want to stay close to the Galata Tower or if being on the European side is important but you don’t want to be in Fatih (old Istanbul).

It is known for trendy bars and restaurants, nightclubs, and an array of quaint cafes. If you want to go to bed early, this is probably not the area for you.

You would be within walking distance (in many cases anyway) to many interesting places like Galata Tower, Istiklal Caddesi (tons of shopping), and Taksim Square.

Also, while you’re here, if you’re interested in trying some Iranian food, Reyhun is excellent. It’s one of my favorite places to eat when I am over there.

Their penthouses boast a kitchenette and a view for days. Enjoy a nice coffee and a view of the city while sitting on your own balcony as you wake up in the morning.

While there are no pool or spa facilities here, suite and penthouse rooms have a jacuzzi tub to help you unwind after a long day. Magical.

The Nippon Istanbul is ideal for guests who desire the convenience of strolling to popular areas such as Istiklal Street and Taksim Square, returning to a comfortable and impeccably maintained space at the end of the day.

Hammamhane Hotel – $$

⭐️ RATING: 9.5/10 | $$ ♻️ | ⭕️ LOCATION: Firuzağa | ✅ Book it!

While the historical onsite Cukurcuma Hamam is not included in the price, Hamamhane is one of the best places to stay. The opportunity to visit a hammam in a traditional setting for an authentic experience is the best way to go in my opinion.

Not to mention how great this property is in addition to that.

The location is close to so many things you will be able to walk or hop on public transportation to get to Old Istanbul to see things like Hagia Sophia and more!

Hammamhane is best suited for travelers seeking an authentic Turkish bath experience intertwined with modern comfort and luxury in Istanbul.

Faik Pasha Apartments – $$$

⭐️ RATING: 9.3/10 | $$$ ♻️ | ⭕️ LOCATION: Firuzağa | ✅ Book it!

The thing I love about this stay is that it is an apartment. You have a bit more control over your own space.

Simultaneously, it is close to touristic things to do and is set up in an old Cihangir house, giving it a nostalgic feel.

If you’re wanting to be in Beyoğlu, this is a great option for you.

Faik Pasha Apartments is perfect for guests seeking a charming and homely atmosphere with a touch of historic Istanbul ambiance.

Istanbul Place Apartments – $$$

⭐️ RATING: 9.8/10 | $$$ | ⭕️ LOCATION: Galata | ✅ Book it!

This is another one I discovered because of an expat’s recommendation. I am in love with these apartments and can’t wait to have friends or family stay here.

They have many different apartments in the area and all of them are of the best quality, newly renovated. You will feel at home in these luxurious apartments with incredible views of the city.

Istanbul Place Apartments, regularly featured in magazines and tour books, are perfect for travelers seeking top-notch accommodation with a touch of luxury and convenience in Istanbul.

See all their locations:

Fatih/Sultanahmet’s Best Hotels

This is considered Old Istanbul or the Old City. You will get to explore Istanbul, seeing parts of the old wall, the aqueduct, and buildings that have been around for centuries, without even trying.

Looking to stay in a tourist area? Sultanahmet is the place for you.

Staying here means a lot of walking. You can get everywhere on foot or with the Tram that goes around the peninsula.

It’s a great place to stay for first timers or at least it is where many tourists stay on their first visit.

Here you will be close to things like the Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, Golden Horn, and more.

That is not my cup of tea, but I have personal experience with two of these hotels and highly recommend them both.

Make sure to check out the shopping in Eminonu, where the locals buy stuff!

Stanpoli Hostel – $

⭐️ RATING: 9/10 | $ | ⭕️ LOCATION: Sultanahmet| ✅ Book it!

The owner, who also incidentally owns Jennifer’s Hamam (an organic peshtemal store close by. You can receive a free, handmade soap with your purchase of $100+ with this coupon) and I are good friends.

I spent time in the hotel, ate lunch on the terrace, and got a tour of the building. It’s great!

The food was so delicious and the manager was a delight! I was so impressed by the cleanliness of the hotel and even though the rooms are a bit small, they felt so comfortable.

The staff was also attentive and incredibly helpful. This is an incredible stay and the price point makes it even better.

To get a 5% discount at checkout, use promo code “ARTFULLYLIVING”. Plus, their prices on extras, transfers, etc are excellent and completely trustworthy. If you’re looking for that, it is a great option!

Stanpoli Hostel is perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking for a cozy and welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district.

Mytra Hotel – $$

⭐️ RATING: 9/10 | $$ ♻️ | ⭕️ LOCATION: Sultanahmet| ✅ Book it!

I took this photo from the rooftop terrace at Mytra. The view is really incredible. You get to see the Old City as well as the Bosphorus.

My friend stayed here on a recent visit and loved it. The staff was friendly, the food was delicious, and the bed was incredibly comfortable.

Perhaps best of all, it is relatively quiet, save the call to prayer of course.

Mytra Hotel is perfect for travelers seeking a modern and comfortable stay with easy access to the city’s main attractions and vibrant cultural scene at a mid-range hotel.

Seven Hills Palace & Spa – $$$

⭐️ RATING: 8.6/10 | $$$ ♻️ ♿️ | ⭕️ LOCATION: Sultanahmet | ✅ Book it!

If you want to stay in Sultanahmet and have more facilities than most hotels offer in the area, Seven Hills is for you.

The hamam is quite relaxing and enjoyable and it is only a couple km walk to the seaside and an even shorter walk to the tourist areas. Don’t miss out on the rooftop restaurant with views of the Bosphorus and delicious food.

Despite being in the center of so much, Seven Hills does an excellent job of creating a relaxing and calming environment to escape the chaos of Istanbul.

Seven Hills is perfect for guests looking for a luxurious experience with breathtaking views of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks without breaking the bank.

Best Places to Stay in Kadıköy – Asian Side

Finally, we have come to Kadıköy, the best neighborhood to stay in. I am perhaps partial in that I live here but truly it is the best.

You get the more modern feel of the European side of Istanbul but the chill vibe of the other side of the Bosphorus.

Kadıköy has some of the best restaurants and shopping around, often for much better prices than the European side, though you can’t really beat Eminonu.

Some of my favorite neighborhoods to wander around are Yeldeğirmeni, Caferağa, Moda, and along Bağdat Street (Bağdat Caddesi).

A post all about Kadikoy is coming but in the meantime, trust me. It is worth staying here! Not to mention it is typically much cheaper to stay on this side.

Looking for a unique culinary experience? One of my favorite places is PALEGG. Get the Tavuk Falan and a lavendar lemonatde. You won’t be disappointed.

Remta Real Estate Apartment – $

⭐️ RATING: 9/10 | $ | ⭕️ LOCATION: Rihtim Street | ✅ Book it!

I love having a kitchen when I travel and with all the issues Airbnb’s are facing, it is nice to have an apartment option that can be trusted.

This brand-new, earthquake-proof building is sure to provide you with the perfect space to recover after a full day of exploration. Plus the landlord speaks English so you can actually communicate!

Remta is perfect for travelers seeking a quiet, clean, and centrally located budget-priced hotel apartment in the heart of Kadıköy, Istanbul.

My Dora – $$

⭐️ RATING: 8.7/10 | $$ ♻️ | ⭕️ LOCATION: Rihtim Street | ✅ Book it!

A couple of friends stayed here last year and thoroughly enjoyed their stay. Their only complaint was that the room was a little small since there were two of them.

The beds were comfortable and the breakfast was delicious. But also the rooftop terrace was a nice surprise in Kadıköy. They said they would definitely stay there again.

My Dora is perfect for travelers seeking clean and centrally located accommodations at less than $150 a night in the heart of Kadıköy, Istanbul.

Wyndham Grand – $$$

⭐️ RATING: 8.5/10 | $$$ ♻️ ♿️ | ⭕️ LOCATION: Bağdat Caddesi | ✅ Book it!

If you want a more luxurious experience but also want a calmer setting on the Asian side, the Wyndham is the place for you!

They have it all (pools, fitness rooms, spa facilities, childcare services, and more) right on the Marmara Sea. You can enjoy delicious food on the rooftop terrace or a relaxing night in.

There is a small beach close by and you’re a short walk to Bağdat Street where you can find great shopping, restaurants, and coffee shops.

Wyndham Grand is perfect for travelers seeking the most upscale accommodation on the Anatolian side of Istanbul, close to Bagdat Caddesi, with a wealth of great amenities for a luxurious stay.

Üsküdar’s Best Hotels – Asian Side

Uskudar is a bit off the beaten path just across the water from the European side but definitely worth venturing over for a visit if you decide not to stay there.

I especially love Kuzguncuk. Just a 15-minute walk from the Metro and Marmaray stop you will discover a quaint little town with colorful buildings much like Balat. If you stop in to GLOW coffee, you can find a great dirty chai and delicious desserts.

Uskudar is also home to my favorite tiramisu place, Kadim Kahve, just a stone’s throw from our first hotel.

May Otel – $$

⭐️ RATING: 8.7/10 | $$ ♻️ | ⭕️ LOCATION: Üsküdar | ✅ Book it!

This hotel was recommended by a friend and is located just over 1 km from the Maiden’s Tower, which has recently been renovated.

You can easily hop on a ferry to get to the European side to see the main tourist attractions and then retreat to the serene atmosphere of the Asian side.

While there isn’t much to see in Uskudar itself, a short walk to Kuzguncuk or a couple of stops on the Marmaray to Kadıköy will allow you to explore the Asian side and pay much less for your accommodations.

May Otel is perfect for travelers seeking lower-cost accommodations without sacrificing value, offering easy access to Istanbul’s tourist attractions despite the absence of a spa or fitness center.

Mercure Istanbul Altunizade – $$

⭐️ RATING: 8.4/10 | $$ ♻️ ♿️ | ⭕️ LOCATION: Altunizade | ✅ Book it!

If you want to be close to the tourist attractions, this is not the destination for you.

If, however, you need to be close by for a medical procedure or want somewhere away from the tourist traps yet still easily get there, this could be a great option for you.

The beds are comfortable and the staff is great.

At Mercure, you are close to a park, public transportation, plenty of shopping, and more. In addition, despite its average price, it still has a luxurious feel.

Mercure Istanbul Altunizade is perfect for guests looking to enjoy a relaxing stay away from the tourist crowds, with the added convenience of a spa and fitness center, as well as proximity to upscale shopping malls.

An alternative list if these didn’t tickle your fancy

If the top picks don’t quite match your needs, there is no shortage of accommodation options. Here’s a list of other noteworthy places that ensure an enjoyable stay in this historic city.

• Kempinski Hotel (⭐8.9) – Luxury on the Bosphorus with Arabic, German, English, and French-speaking staff to make sure you are taken care of. (Ortaköy/Beşiktaş)
• Four Seasons Hotel (⭐9.1) – When money is no option, you stay at the Four Seasons Hotel, in a renovated 19th-century Ottoman palace. Great staff, delicious food, and stunning views make for a great vacation. (Sinanpaşa/Beşiktaş)
• Swissotel Bosphorus (⭐8.9) – Known for its excellent spa facilities and extensive variety of food in its 7 restaurants, all right on the Bosphorus. (Sinanpaşa/Beşiktaş)
• Sofitel Istanbul Taksim (⭐8.5) – Experience luxury with French elegance in the vibrant Taksim area. (Taksim/Beyoğlu)
• Divan Hotels (⭐8.6) – With a few different locations, you’re sure to find the best one for you. They are known for their delicious cuisine which I have enjoyed a number of times. (Şişli)
• Adahan DeCamondo Pera (⭐8.9) – Located in the heart of Galata, it’s perfect for those who wish to be in the center of it all. Don’t miss the tea time at 5 p.m. (Galata/Beyoğlu)
• Cemre Suites (⭐9) – Enjoy modern and spacious rooms right in the heart of Kadıköy. Close to the ferries, Marmaray, and metro. (Kadıköy)
• Double Tree (⭐8.9) – With just a 5-minute walk to the heart of Moda you can enjoy the most delicious food and quaint boutiques for shopping then retire for the night in a comfy American-style bed. (Moda/Kadıköy)
• My Suite Cihangir (⭐8.7) – Enjoy the bohemian streets of Cihangir with these stylish suites, ideal for those who appreciate artsy vibes and café culture. (Firuzağa/Beyoğlu)
• Witt Istanbul Suites (⭐9.5) – Featuring modern and spacious rooms with panoramic views, this property caters to luxury seekers. (Cihangir/Beyoğlu)

From quaint hostels to cozy apartments to luxurious hotels, Istanbul’s accommodation options cater to all preferences and budgets. Whether you want a room with a view, a luxurious escape, or a convenient base for exploring, these alternatives are sure to provide a comfortable and memorable stay.

A few Considerations for Istanbul Accommodations

A perfect stay in Istanbul should balance the things that are important to you.

Beyond your preferences, there are also a few things that I recommend you take note of when preparing to stay in Turkey.

• Swimming caps are required in all pools. You can usually buy them at the hotel but they are expensive. If you have some, bring them with you. They can be the plastic ones we use in the States or the fabric ones from here.
• If you’re in the touristic areas, be aware that Turks generally go to sleep late. If you’re an early-to-bed person, I recommend bringing a noise machine. It is the only way I can sleep in some parts of the country.
• If you’re renting a car, expect to pay a lot for parking. It is also quite stressful to drive in Turkey, especially in Istanbul, as the rules are not always followed.
• If you decide to find something else, make sure you book something with a customer rating of 8 or higher on Booking.com.
• I would recommend not staying in an Airbnb. Currently, there are a lot of issues with people running them illegally and visitors are being kicked out of them or dealing with last-minute cancellations.
• Especially in older buildings, always put your used toilet paper in the trash instead of flushing it. The ancient pipes just can’t handle it.

FAQs About the best hotels in Istanbul

#1 Top Pick – Best overall

Check Price

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Hammamhane (Galata/Beyoğlu)

✅ 10-15 minute walk to many tourist areas

✅ Comfortable beds

✅ Historical onsite Turkish Bathhouse called Cukurcuma Hammam (not incl.)

Final Thoughts on the Best Neighborhoods in Istanbul

*Insert big sigh. That was a lot! It took me nearly a week to compile this information for you and so I hope it has been helpful.

Visiting Istanbul can be a lot much less trying to figure out the best neighborhoods to stay in but hopefully, this helps narrow it down for you.

Your journey through Istanbul is bound to be enriching and exciting and will only be enhanced by any of these exceptional stays.

Whether you value the proximity to cultural sites, a family-friendly environment, or the ease of access to the city’s nightlife, these accommodations promise to cater to your desires for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Turkey.

If you’re staying in Istanbul for a short amount of time and plan to move on to other places as well, there is much to see!

I hope you fall in love with this beautiful country the same way I have.

Do you have somewhere else that should be on the list? Shoot me an email. I love hearing about your experiences too!