I’ve put together this list of my favorite neighborhoods to stay in and my top picks of top hotels in Istanbul, each focusing on a different part of town. The city has a rich and diverse history, which lends itself well to being visited as a series of journeys. If you are planning a trip to the city remember that you must plan ahead to get the best rates. There are always great offers and discounts so do your research and you will be rewarded.
Istanbul is a top travel destination. Home to the grand and historic Sultanahmet Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Byzantine Theodosius Walls, it’s a highlight of Turkey visits. But with many different districts, how do you choose where to stay in Istanbul? The city has everything from Ottoman-era architecture to modern bars and restaurants. It also has a mix of modern and ancient culture, meaning that strolling through its streets could be an entirely new experience every time.
Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet, also known as the Old City is where you more than likely want to be staying when in Istanbul. It is the historic center of Turkey’s capital and the closest thing to a tourist neighborhood. The area is jam-packed with some of the city’s most incredible sights – from St. Sophia church and Topkapi palace to Hagia Sophia mosque and Hippodrome, I’ve counted thirteen world heritage sites within walking distance between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
Bazaar District
The Grand Bazaar is a must-visit when you are in Istanbul. You will find anything and everything you could possibly want here, but be prepared to bargain hard – they won’t give you anything without a fight! An alternative to the market, located just across the way, is the nearby Spice Bazaar. With its maze of covered streets and lines of stalls displaying the finest spices from around the world, this area holds a special kind of magic for those that visit. Whether you are visiting for business or for pleasure, Istanbul is a city of captivating architecture, mesmerizing history, and remarkably tasty food. The area has plenty in the way of accommodation choices, as well as interesting places to eat. Staying near the bazaar means you can get a real glimpse into life in this Old City. Nestled inside the city walls, the area is a window into Istanbul’s long tradition of trade.
Beyoglu
If you’ve got your sights set on the Old City to stay in Istanbul then Beyoglu is a perfect choice. From the buzzing hub of Istiklal Caddesi, where you’ll find all of the good places to eat, drink and let your hair down, to the eclectic neighborhood of Kadıköy on the Anatolian side that’s renowned for its bars and trendy cafes, there’s no shortage of things to do in this district. Don’t forget to stroll along the Bosphorus taking in all of the landmarks that draw people to this beautiful city, and don’t miss out on exploring other parts of Turkey during a stay in Istanbul.
I’m wondering if you’ve ever been to Istanbul but I doubt it. I haven’t either and I will tell you all about the best neighborhoods and hotels in this ancient city!
Karakoy
Cool kids and stylish ex-pats flock to Karakoy, formerly known as Galata. With old warehouses and late 19th-century architecture converted into numerous shops, restaurants, and hotels, the district is one of the hip areas in Istanbul. Whether you’re riding the tram or taking a stroll down charming cobblestone streets, stop by the Galata Tower – which offers incredible views of the area – and continue on to Taksim Square lined by stunning neoclassical buildings. Karakoy, formerly known as Galata, sits north of the Old City. Cool kids and foreign visitors hang out in the area, spending cash on coffee and creativity.
Besiktas
Besiktas is a vibrant neighborhood just outside the historic Sultanahmet district. (read this paragraph by paragraph) Besiktas is an up-and-coming neighborhood, which has traditionally been associated with the lower classes. It is one of the most cultural and historical neighborhoods in Istanbul and has played an important role in Turkey’s military history. It is also an important transport hub for goods being ferried between continents on ships traveling along the Bosphorus. A new wave of tourists has become interested in staying in this area for its quick and easy access to other parts of the Bosphorus including Beyoglu, Ortakoy, Kadikoy, and Bebek.
ener & BalatF
Looking for accommodation in Istanbul? Each year, thousands of people head there on vacation, with the city once again topping global travel destinations for 2015. It’s become so popular that it’s not just the main tourist areas that are worth staying in, but many other parts of the city bring something different to the table. The two cultural districts of Fener and Balat both connect to The Golden Horn – the primary inlet of the Bosphorus. This part of Istanbul is home to one of the oldest Jewish communities in the city, having been settled for over 2,000 years. Both areas have a selection of similarly priced accommodation and it’s a simple bus ride from here to other districts in Istanbul. There is variously priced accommodation and it’s a simple bus ride from this area to other districts in Istanbul.
