The place to Keep in Istanbul (Finest Areas and Locations)

Soar To: Best Areas | For First Timers | Nightlife | Cool Area | Budget | Food | History | FAQs

Should you’re considering of visiting Istanbul, or of staying longer as a digital nomad, don’t wait a second longer; take this as your signal to e book and go. That is my favourite metropolis in the entire world, and irrespective of what number of instances I go to, I’m undecided it might ever be sufficient. Nonetheless, figuring out the place to remain in Istanbul is necessary as a result of get it improper, and also you’re going to be caught in that well-known Istanbul site visitors for half your trip.

There are so many places to visit in Turkey, however I can’t even depend what number of instances I’ve traveled to and stayed in Istanbul. A number of instances I’ve stayed for greater than a month directly and actually felt like an area. It’s a metropolis that’s drenched in historical past, and is totally absorbing – you may name the complete metropolis an out of doors museum of kinds, there are so many things to do. And the meals; oh my life, the meals!

That being stated, I can’t deny that understanding this enormous city sprawl may be sophisticated for a first-time customer. Inside this submit, I’m going that can assist you select one of the best space to remain in Istanbul, Turkey so you have got a robust basis on the place to start your exploration. I like this metropolis a lot that I’m already enthusiastic about your journey too!

SEE ALSO: Best Time to Visit Istanbul (Weather and Costs)

Finest Areas to Keep in Istanbul

Fast Look: Finest Areas to Keep in Istanbul

Sultanahmet: The Finest Place To Keep in Istanbul for Your First Time

If you wish to know the place to remain in Istanbul for the primary time, I’d extremely advocate Sultanahmet. Whereas this isn’t the right neighborhood completely (the place is?), it’s house to nearly all of Istanbul’s high historic spots, and also you’ll be capable of get a snapshot of town as an entire by basing your self right here.

That is the place you’ll discover the Grand Bazaar, Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, and Topkapı Palace. There are additionally numerous motels on this a part of town, in addition to 1,000,000 and one (I didn’t depend) cafes and restaurants.

Professionals of Staying in Sultanahmet

• You’re near the must-visit points of interest for a first-time customer
• Top-of-the-line locations in Istanbul for iconic photograph alternatives
• Pretty quiet after midnight, so it’s nice for getting a great evening’s sleep
• It’s straightforward to get round from right here by tram and bus
• Very multicultural and most of the people on this space communicate English

Cons of Staying in Sultanahmet

• The meals isn’t one of the best and is sort of overpriced – you’ll be informed it’s conventional, however it’s touristic-traditional
• Should you’re in search of the place to remain in Istanbul for purchasing, this isn’t it – you’ll solely discover souvenirs
• Should you’re in search of vibrant nightlife, you received’t discover it right here

Finest Locations to Keep in Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet has numerous lodging choices, together with some very spectacular motels:

1. Radisson Hotel Istanbul Sultanahmet: Should you’re in search of the place to remain in Istanbul, and a central location is necessary to you, it is a nice alternative. It additionally presents the most effective breakfasts I’ve skilled in a resort, permitting you to gasoline up and really feel happy for the day forward. Click here for details.

2. Sultan Tughra Hotel: This resort is without doubt one of the most original locations to remain in Istanbul positioned inside a restored 100-year-old mansion. Nonetheless, it’s full of all of the mod-cons you may want, and it contains a unbelievable on-site restaurant. Click here for details.

3. Cronton Design Hotel: This resort is gorgeous! With elegant lodging, an onsite restaurant and terrace for eating, and world-class service, you may’t go improper. Click here for details.

High Issues To Do in Sultanahmet

There’s no scarcity of issues to see and do in Sultanahmet, however make peace with not with the ability to do all of them inside one go to. Listed below are my most extremely advisable factors of curiosity:

1. Blue Mosque: Positioned proper within the coronary heart of Sultanahmet and surrounded by stunning gardens, straight reverse Hagia Sofia, you merely should go to the Blue Mosque. The mosque is closed to guests throughout prayer instances, and is free to enter, though donations are all the time welcomed. A guided tour is a good suggestion right here. Click here for tour details. and Click here for tour details of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia and click here for directions.

2. Basilica Cistern: Courting again to the yr 532, this underground attraction is a must-visit. I cherished the ambiance, because it felt like historical past was throughout me and the echoes felt like ghosts from the previous. Locations like this are precisely why Sultanahmet is one of the best place to remain in Istanbul for vacationers. The one draw back is the queues however you may take a tour to keep away from that. Click here for tour details and click here for directions.

3. Topkapı Palace: This enormous palace and its gorgeous gardens have been the official home of the Ottoman sultans in Istanbul, and the opulence is off the dimensions. The view over the Bosphorus blew me away – it’s breathtaking. I took an audio-guided tour and it actually helped me grasp what I used to be seeing. Click here for booking information and click here for directions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Sultanahmet

You’ll discover numerous eating places in Sultanahmet, many are definitely worth the cash, and a few aren’t. Listed below are a few of my high picks:

1. Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi Selim Usta: For my part, this restaurant does one of the best köfte within the space, and it’s been open since 1920, so that claims lots. For dessert, be sure to attempt İrmik helvası, which is considered one of my favorites. Click here for directions.

2. Matbah Restaurant: There are a variety of eating places in Sultanahmet that say they make conventional Ottoman delicacies, however lots don’t do it so properly. That’s not the case at Matbah. This restaurant is upmarket, and also you’ll take pleasure in an exquisite view as you dine. Click here for directions.

3. Şehzade Cağ Kebap: That is considered one of my go-to locations in Istanbul; even when I’m not staying in Sultanahmet, I’ll journey there for this restaurant alone. Cağ kebap is a lamb shish-style dish however this restaurant does it like nowhere else and locals flock right here time and time once more. Click here for directions.

Taksim/Beyoğlu: Finest Space in Istanbul for Nightlife

If you wish to know the place to remain in Istanbul for nightlife, there’s no higher place than Taksim and Beyoğlu. I’ll hyperlink each of those areas collectively as a result of Taksim is in Beyoğlu, they usually’re primarily one and the identical.

Taksim is unquestionably the most effective areas to remain in Istanbul if you would like a vibrant expertise, however it’s additionally a type of locations the place it’s important to use your frequent sense on the subject of security (take common precautions reminiscent of not strolling with excessive volumes of money and don’t flash valuables).

That doesn’t imply Taksim is harmful, nevertheless – removed from it. I’ve stayed in Taksim many instances, and I loved the ‘metropolis that by no means sleeps’ vibe. Istiklal Street is packed irrespective of the time of the day or evening and is house to plenty of bars, cafes, restaurants, golf equipment, and even museums alongside and behind it.

There isn’t a lot you received’t discover in Taksim, which is why it’s an important alternative for individuals who benefit from the fast-paced metropolis way of life.

Professionals of Staying in Taksim/Beyoğlu

• Finest place to remain in Istanbul for nightlife
• Procuring right here is unbelievable
• Many worldwide eating places, and some native ones
• Central places with two Metro stations
• Loads of lodging choices

Cons of Staying in Taksim/Beyoğlu

• It’s not unknown for Taksim to be a bother hotspot infrequently, particularly Taksim Sq.
• Nightclubs don’t shut till very late into the evening, usually round 6 am, which implies a variety of noise
• This space may be very busy, and strolling down Istiklal Avenue may be demanding, significantly at weekends
• Excessive costs in bars and eating places

Finest Locations to Keep in Taksim/Beyoğlu

The Taksim/Beyoğlu presents a spread of lodging, from funds to luxurious. Think about staying at one of many beneath choices:

1. Endless Comfort Hotel Taksim: It actually is consolation by title and by nature at this place, and I discovered it to be an important base for exploring the middle of Istanbul. Rooms are spacious, and you may’t beat the situation. Should you’re in search of Istanbul motels close to nightlife, I’d advocate this one. Click here for details.

2. Cihangir VAV Suites: Positioned in Beyoğlu, the solar terrace alone makes this place value reserving! Every thing is close by, Istiklal Avenue is simply 700 meters away. Click here for details.

3. Cihangir Residences: I discovered this house resort to be of wonderful worth and the restaurant on the highest flooring presents superb views. Every room comes with a kitchenette, which is nice if you wish to make your personal breakfast sometimes. Click here for details.

High Issues To Do in Taksim/Beyoğlu

Now you understand the place to remain in Istanbul’s metropolis middle, what’s there to see and do in Taksim/Beyoğlu?

1. Nostalgic İstiklal Caddesi Tram: Working down Istiklal Avenue from Taksim Sq., a trip on this tram ought to be in your itinerary, (though it’s small so that you’ll have to be on the entrance of the queue to get on). It’s an effective way to discover Istiklal with out having to battle the crowds. Click here for directions.

2. Modern City Walking Tour: Taksim has many winding again streets that comprise outdated bookstores, boutique shops, and museums, and with no information, you may miss a variety of it. This tour is a good alternative, and I loved having a educated information to point out me some hidden gems. Click here for more information.

3. Taksim Republic Monument: Within the coronary heart of Taksim Sq. you’ll discover this enormous monument, and it’s one of the vital well-known sights within the space. The statue was constructed to honor the formation of the Turkish Republic back in 1923, and it’s a must have to your photograph assortment. Click here for directions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Taksim/Beyoğlu

Taksim is one of the best place to remain in Istanbul for nightlife, however there are some fairly nice native and worldwide eating places too. Check out the beneath:

1. Nook Irish Bar: I’m virtually an area at this place at any time when I’m in Istanbul; it’s such a heat and welcoming place. The meals supplied is common pub meals, reminiscent of burgers and pizza, however they do it extraordinarily properly. It’s additionally a high spot for watching sports activities they usually have all completely different sorts of beers and spirits to sip on. Click here for directions.

2. WAMA’s: I believe I might need tried nearly the whole lot on this restaurant’s menu, and let me inform you, it’s not a small menu… Their lasagne is off the dimensions, they usually do superb salads. I’d advocate this restaurant for households, because it’s homely they usually don’t serve alcohol; it has a fairly low-key ambiance. Click here for directions.

3. Meat Moot: Should you’re into smoked meats, this restaurant is for you. It’s extremely rated and in a cool spot with uncovered brick partitions. Click here for directions.

Galata: The Coolest Place to Keep in Istanbul 

There are lots of Istanbul neighborhoods, however I don’t assume any are as cool as Galata, which runs simply off Taksim and Beyoğlu, encompassing the Galata Tower. Should you’re the place to remain in Istanbul and also you need a spot that’s low-key however has that hipster vibe, Galata is for you.

You’ll discover small museums, dwell music cafes, bookstores, and many music shops promoting some fairly attention-grabbing devices. The one draw back of Galata is that it’s positioned on a really steep hill, so that you’ll want some comfy footwear (and a few stamina).

Professionals of Staying in Galata

• A quieter place to remain in comparison with Taksim, however not too distant from nightlife
• Relaxed nightlife
• Some nice cafes with cheap costs
• Nice for music followers
• A lot of small memento retailers promoting distinctive gadgets

Cons of Staying in Galata

• Shut proximity to the Galata Tower means crowds in the course of the day, and the pavements are slender
• Very hilly space, so not nice for folks with mobility points
• It may be very quiet and darkish later at evening

Finest Locations to Keep in Galata

Staying near the Galata Tower presents unbelievable views, and there are some low cost locations to remain in Istanbul round right here:

1. Azzap Hotel Galata: This is without doubt one of the greatest locations to remain in Istanbul middle with out being proper in the course of the noise. In addition to its location, this resort presents superb views and a classy ambiance. Click here for details.

2. The Hotels, Galata: Not probably the most imaginative title, however this highly-rated resort is unquestionably value staying at. The comfy rooms provide sea or metropolis views and breakfast is included as properly. Click here for details.

3. Ecole St. Pierre Hotel: This resort is positioned inside a historic constructing and is simply steps from the Galata Tower, making it a superb location. There’s an onsite restaurant and an attractive restaurant and terrace. Click here for details.

High Issues To Do in Galata

Galata presents an unostentatious expertise, however there’s a shocking quantity to do in such a small space.

1. Galata Tower: The view from the highest of this historic watchtower is like nothing you’ll have seemingly ever seen earlier than. I didn’t significantly take pleasure in how slender it was, however a single-file strategy does the job. I took a guided tour right here, and I extremely advocate it. Click here for tour details and click here for directions.

2. Galata Mevlevi House Museum: That is one of the best place to see an genuine whirling dervish efficiency in Istanbul and the museum additionally helps you study extra about what you’re witnessing. Nonetheless, it does promote out shortly, so be sure to e book forward in order to not miss out. Click here for directions.

3. Galata Bridge: This is without doubt one of the most iconic sights in Istanbul, and I’ve walked over it numerous instances taking pictures. You’ll see folks fishing, promoting ankle bracelets, and snacks proper alongside its size on each side.

Should you head downstairs, you’ll see numerous fish eating places, though these are the most costly ones – there are cheaper and higher ones in Taksim and Beşiktaş. Click here for directions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Galata

When looking for the place to remain in Istanbul, meals comes into it, and Galata has some nice decisions. These are my favourite spots within the space:

1. Süheyla: This small cafe is without doubt one of the greatest hidden gems within the metropolis, and it’s my high choose for breakfast. The normal kahvalti (Turkish breakfast) right here is exemplary, and also you undoubtedly received’t be hungry for a great few hours afterward. Click here for directions.

2. Galata Konak Cafe & Restaurant: This cafe doesn’t look particular from the surface however stroll up the steps, and also you’ll be handled to probably the most superb, sweeping view over the Golden Horn. It’s additionally considered one of my favourite locations for espresso and cake – be sure to attempt trilece, a scrumptious, milky cake. Click here for directions.

3. Pepo’s Galata: Somewhat upmarket however nice worth for cash, this restaurant is a best choice for {couples} specifically. The crispy Turkish ravioli is considered one of my favourite dishes right here, and the desserts are divine. Click here for directions.

Üsküdar: Finest for Households 

Positioned on the Asian aspect of Istanbul, Üsküdar is a quieter space that gives nice transport hyperlinks to different components of town. Should you’re in search of the place to remain in Istanbul for households, I’d advocate right here. It’s a safe neighborhood in Istanbul, and it’s much more genuine, which makes for a extra laid-back expertise.

After all, that doesn’t imply there isn’t something to see and do, and there are some unbelievable motels round this space too.

Professionals of Staying in Üsküdar

• Top-of-the-line locations to remain close to Istanbul’s primary middle, with out being proper within the midst of all of it
• Quiet and laid-back
• Offers you an genuine expertise
• Wide selection of eating decisions
• Cheaper motels in comparison with the European aspect

Cons of Staying in Üsküdar

• You’ll want to make use of public transport to get round
• If you need nightlife, you’ll need to go over to neighboring Kadıköy

Finest Locations to Keep in Üsküdar

Some may say Üsküdar is without doubt one of the posher areas of Istanbul, however it has some nice motels, together with some with Bosphorus views. You may’t go improper with any of the beneath:

1. Ottoman Suites by Sera House: This beautiful property is positioned in a historic constructing, and presents a restaurant, outside seating areas, and it’s additionally pet pleasant. Carry your furry buddies! It is a unbelievable place to remain. Click here for details.

2. May Otel Uskudar: What I loved most about this resort was that it gave me the whole lot I wanted for a snug keep however didn’t inflate the worth with pointless extras. It’s additionally very centrally positioned, and the rooms are giant, making it superb for households. Click here for details.

3. Aspera Hotel Altunizade: This trendy resort presents luxurious interiors and stylish rooms. There’s additionally a spa and well being membership with health middle, and an elegant restaurant. Click here for details.

High Issues To Do in Üsküdar

When selecting the place to remain in Istanbul, it’s important to take into consideration actions – fortunately, Üsküdar is inside straightforward attain of many:

1. Maiden’s Tower: Positioned on an islet within the Bosphorus, you’ll discover this picturesque tower, constructed in the course of the Byzantine era. There are many legends about why the tower was constructed, however lately you may take pleasure in a scrumptious meal on the restaurant inside. Should you don’t wish to go into the tower itself, you may sail previous it on a Bosphorus tour. Click here for tour details and click here for directions.

2. Çamlıca Hill: I can’t clarify in phrases how gorgeous the panoramic view throughout the European aspect of town is from this hill; it’s unbelievable. This enormous open area can also be superb for letting children run free and burn off some steam. There are cafes and picnic spots, however it’s only a great place to take in the peace and quiet. Click here for directions.

3. Miniaturk: This enormous open-air museum reveals you the largest points of interest in the entire of Turkey in miniature. So, you may say you’ve form of “been” to part of the nation that’s far, distant. Youngsters will love exploring the completely different landmarks, and it’s tremendous attention-grabbing for adults too. Click here for tour information and click here for directions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Üsküdar

Nightlife in Üsküdar is fairly subdued, however that’s the perfect state of affairs while you’re touring with children. Listed below are my high three locations to go to:

1. Kanaat Lokantası: I like conventional Turkish meals, however it’s not all about kebabs. This restaurant means that you can attempt all various kinds of stews, vegetarian dishes, rice, salads, and desserts. It’s a self-service type, so you may have a look at the dish and select what you need. It’s superb for choosy eaters. too. Click here for directions.

2. Çengelköy Tarihi Çınaraltı: This family-friendly cafe and restaurant is a good spot to take pleasure in some espresso and cake, or a lightweight meal like a burger. The breakfast right here can also’t be faulted. Click here for directions.

3. Rainbow Cafe & Restaurant: Should you’re in search of a restaurant that serves worldwide and Turkish dishes with a laid-back ambiance, that is the place to go. It’s an important spot for households, and their parts are beneficiant. Click here for directions.

Beşiktaş: The Finest Place in Istanbul on a Funds 

I believe Beşiktaş is without doubt one of the greatest neighborhoods in Istanbul and I’ve stayed there many instances earlier than. It’s an important space for foodies, and it’s additionally pocket-friendly. Should you’re in search of locations to remain in Istanbul for teams, you’ll discover some low-cost motels right here in addition to hostels. Nonetheless, there are additionally some very upmarket choices too.

Beşiktaş sits proper on the water’s edge, and it’s a hub for transport, with ferries going over to the Asian aspect and the Prince’s islands, boat excursions, and buses coming and going all day lengthy. The Kabataş tram station is just a 15-minute stroll away. I like the welcoming really feel of Beşiktaş, and regardless of it being very busy, it’s someway additionally fairly chilled-out.

Professionals of Staying in Beşiktaş

• If you wish to know the place to remain in Istanbul to get round simply, this space is ideal for you
• Low-cost food and drinks
• A extra genuine expertise
• An ideal vary of lodging, from low-cost to luxurious
• A very good space for reasonable purchasing

Cons of Staying in Beşiktaş

• The Metro doesn’t serve this space
• Getting a taxi may be extraordinarily troublesome, so it’s important to depend on buses, trams, ferries, and strolling
• It’s a bit of too busy for households with young children

Finest Locations to Keep in Beşiktaş

Beşiktaş is a big space, which encompasses not solely the central half but in addition all the way down to Ortaköy, the place the Bosphorus Bridge is positioned. Due to its measurement, there are many lodging decisions to choose from:

1. Melas Hotel Istanbul: This resort presents many amenities, and if you happen to’re in search of the place to remain in Istanbul with parking, you’ll discover it right here. Rooms are giant and comfy, and the free continental breakfast is greater than sufficient to fill you up for the morning and past. Click here for details.

2. Armoni Residence Istanbul: Should you’re in search of someplace to remain as an enormous group, I’d extremely advocate this aparthotel. The flats are enormous and have two bedrooms whereas providing a really homely ambiance. Click here for details.

3. CLK Suites: I’ve stayed at this resort a number of instances and would completely return. It’s a comfy area, and every room has a fridge, which is all the time very helpful while you wish to preserve your drinks and snacks cool. Click here for details.

High Issues To Do in Beşiktaş

Beşiktaş is one of the best space to remain in Istanbul as a vacationer outdoors of Sultanahmet as a result of it’s really easy to get round and see some main sights. Don’t go to with out seeing these sights:

1. Dolmabahçe Palace: I cherished Topkapı Palace, however for me, Dolmabahçe wins palms down. The opulence is sort of incomprehensible, to the purpose the place it introduced tears to my eyes. A fast tip: arrive early to beat the queues which may be enormous, however I extremely advocate a guided tour for extra readability. Click here for tour information and click here for directions.

2. Bosphorus Bridge in Ortaköy: Strictly talking, that is nonetheless a part of Beşiktaş, and you may stroll there in round 20 minutes. Not solely is the bridge fairly spectacular, however the Ortaköy space is absolutely enjoyable. Be sure to attempt Kumpir (jacket potato with as many toppings as you need) and an enormous waffle with all of the trimmings. Click here for directions.

3. Yıldız Park: As you’re researching the place to remain in Istanbul, you’ll come to understand that there are extra inexperienced areas than you might need thought; Yıldız Park is considered one of my favorites. This enormous open area is right for strolling, and also you’ll be capable of do some chook watching too. Click here for directions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Beşiktaş

The place to remain in Istanbul for meals? Positively Beşiktaş, – it’s the most effective locations for avenue meals:

1. Karadeniz Doner: I ought to level out that I don’t like usually doner meat, however I do like this one. Karadeniz Doner has been open for the reason that early ’70s, and also you’ll must get in line early if you wish to seize considered one of their well-known sandwiches. Belief me, it’s value it. Click here for directions.

2. Yalla Fallafel: The spot to have completely crispy fallafel balls, yummy hummus, comfortable pita and creamy yogurt! It’d sound easy, however the flavors are out of this world. It is a highly regarded place – in any case, Beşiktaş is one of the best neighborhood for avenue meals. Click here for directions.

3. İSKENDER Kuruluş 1867: This isn’t simply any outdated kebab store. The Iskender kebabs are the one factor that this place does, they usually do it properly. It’s a real delight. Strive it and see for your self. Click here for details.

Finest Areas to Keep in Istanbul: FAQ’s

Listed below are some solutions to probably the most generally requested questions on one of the best areas to remain in Istanbul:

In Conclusion

Searching for locations to remain in Istanbul isn’t a simple job; don’t fall into the frequent lure of simply selecting the nicest-looking, least expensive resort – we’re speaking a couple of HUGE metropolis right here. I used to be shocked on the sheer measurement of it after I first visited, however it’s surprisingly straightforward to get round when you get your bearings.

For me, Istanbul is one of the best metropolis on the planet. It’s received the whole lot you may want, it’s drenched in historical past, it has sufficient modern-day enjoyable to maintain even probably the most stressed individual busy, and the meals is like nowhere else. Simply go: that’s one of the best recommendation I may give; you received’t be upset.