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

Bounce To: Greatest Areas | For First Timers | Nightlife | Cool Space | Finances | Meals | Historical past | FAQs

If you happen to’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 occasions I go to, I’m undecided it may ever be sufficient. Nonetheless, figuring out the place to remain in Istanbul is essential as a result of get it mistaken, and also you’re going to be caught in that well-known Istanbul visitors for half your trip.

There are so many locations to go to in Turkey, however I can’t even depend what number of occasions I’ve traveled to and stayed in Istanbul. A number of occasions 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 could possibly name your complete metropolis an out of doors museum of types, there are so many issues to do. And the meals; oh my life, the meals!

That being stated, I can’t deny that understanding this enormous city sprawl might be difficult for a first-time customer. Inside this publish, I’m going that will help you select the very best space to remain in Istanbul, Turkey so you’ve gotten 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: Greatest Time to Go to Istanbul (Climate and Prices)

Greatest Areas to Keep in Istanbul

Fast Look: Greatest Areas to Keep in Istanbul

Sultanahmet: The Greatest 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 suggest Sultanahmet. Whereas this isn’t the proper neighborhood solely (the place is?), it’s dwelling to nearly all of Istanbul’s prime historic spots, and also you’ll have the ability to get a snapshot of town as a complete 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 lodges on this a part of town, in addition to one million and one (I didn’t depend) cafes and eating places.

Execs of Staying in Sultanahmet

• You’re near the must-visit sights for a first-time customer
• Among the finest locations in Istanbul for iconic picture alternatives
• Pretty quiet after midnight, so it’s nice for getting a superb 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 converse English

Cons of Staying in Sultanahmet

• The meals isn’t the very best and is sort of overpriced – you’ll be informed it’s conventional, however it’s touristic-traditional
• If you happen to’re on the lookout for the place to remain in Istanbul for buying, this isn’t it – you’ll solely discover souvenirs
• If you happen to’re on the lookout for vibrant nightlife, you gained’t discover it right here

Greatest Locations to Keep in Sultanahmet

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

1. Radisson Lodge Istanbul Sultanahmet: If you happen to’re on the lookout for the place to remain in Istanbul, and a central location is essential to you, this can be a nice alternative. It additionally presents top-of-the-line breakfasts I’ve skilled in a lodge, permitting you to gas up and really feel happy for the day forward. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Sultan Tughra Lodge: This lodge is without doubt one of the most original locations to remain in Istanbul situated inside a restored 100-year-old mansion. Nonetheless, it’s filled with all of the mod-cons you could possibly want, and it encompasses a incredible on-site restaurant. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Cronton Design Lodge: This lodge is gorgeous! With elegant lodging, an onsite restaurant and terrace for eating, and world-class service, you may’t go mistaken. Click on right here for particulars.

Prime 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 really helpful factors of curiosity:

1. Blue Mosque: Situated 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 occasions, and is free to enter, though donations are all the time welcomed. A guided tour is a good suggestion right here. Click on right here for tour particulars. and Click on right here for tour particulars of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia and click on right here for instructions.

2. Basilica Cistern: Relationship again to the yr 532, this underground attraction is a must-visit. I beloved the environment, 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 the very 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 on right here for tour particulars and click on right here for instructions.

3. Topkapı Palace: This enormous palace and its gorgeous gardens had been the official dwelling 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 on right here for reserving info and click on right here for instructions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Sultanahmet

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

1. Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi Selim Usta: For my part, this restaurant does the very best köfte within the space, and it’s been open since 1920, so that claims quite a bit. For dessert, be sure to attempt İrmik helvası, which is one among my favorites. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Matbah Restaurant: There are a whole lot of eating places in Sultanahmet that say they make conventional Ottoman delicacies, however quite a bit don’t do it so effectively. That’s not the case at Matbah. This restaurant is upmarket, and also you’ll get pleasure from an exquisite view as you dine. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Şehzade Cağ Kebap: That is one among 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 on right here for instructions.

Taksim/Beyoğlu: Greatest 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 basically one and the identical.

Taksim is no doubt top-of-the-line areas to remain in Istanbul if you need a vibrant expertise, however it’s additionally a type of locations the place it’s a must to use your widespread sense in the case 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 occasions, and I loved the ‘metropolis that by no means sleeps’ vibe. Istiklal Road is packed irrespective of the time of the day or evening and is dwelling to loads of bars, cafes, eating places, golf equipment, and even museums alongside and behind it.

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

Execs of Staying in Taksim/Beyoğlu

• Greatest place to remain in Istanbul for nightlife
• Procuring right here is incredible
• 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 hassle hotspot every now and then, particularly Taksim Sq.
• Nightclubs don’t shut till very late into the evening, usually round 6 am, which suggests a whole lot of noise
• This space may be very busy, and strolling down Istiklal Road might be worrying, notably at weekends
• Excessive costs in bars and eating places

Greatest Locations to Keep in Taksim/Beyoğlu

The Taksim/Beyoğlu presents a variety of lodging, from price range to luxurious. Think about staying at one of many under choices:

1. Limitless Consolation Lodge Taksim: It really is consolation by title and by nature at this place, and I discovered it to be an awesome base for exploring the middle of Istanbul. Rooms are spacious, and you may’t beat the placement. If you happen to’re on the lookout for Istanbul lodges close to nightlife, I’d suggest this one. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Cihangir VAV Suites: Situated in Beyoğlu, the solar terrace alone makes this place value reserving! Every little thing is close by, Istiklal Road is simply 700 meters away. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Cihangir Residences: I discovered this condominium lodge to be of fantastic worth and the restaurant on the highest flooring presents wonderful views. Every room comes with a kitchenette, which is nice if you wish to make your individual breakfast sometimes. Click on right here for particulars.

Prime Issues To Do in Taksim/Beyoğlu

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

1. Nostalgic İstiklal Caddesi Tram: Operating down Istiklal Road from Taksim Sq., a journey 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 on right here for instructions.

2. Fashionable Metropolis Strolling Tour: Taksim has many winding again streets that include outdated bookstores, boutique shops, and museums, and with no information, you could possibly miss a whole lot of it. This tour is a superb alternative, and I loved having a educated information to point out me some hidden gems. Click on right here for extra info.

3. Taksim Republic Monument: Within the coronary heart of Taksim Sq. you’ll discover this enormous monument, and it’s one of the well-known sights within the space. The statue was constructed to honor the formation of the Turkish Republic again in 1923, and it’s essential in your picture assortment. Click on right here for instructions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Taksim/Beyoğlu

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

1. Nook Irish Bar: I’m virtually an area at this place every time 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 effectively. It’s additionally a prime spot for watching sports activities they usually have all totally different sorts of beers and spirits to sip on. Click on right here for instructions.

2. WAMA’s: I feel I might need tried virtually all the things on this restaurant’s menu, and let me let you know, it’s not a small menu… Their lasagne is off the dimensions, they usually do wonderful salads. I’d suggest this restaurant for households, because it’s homely they usually don’t serve alcohol; it has a fairly low-key environment. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Meat Moot: If you happen to’re into smoked meats, this restaurant is for you. It’s extremely rated and in a cool spot with uncovered brick partitions. Click on right here for instructions.

Galata: The Coolest Place to Keep in Istanbul 

There are various Istanbul neighborhoods, however I don’t suppose any are as cool as Galata, which runs simply off Taksim and Beyoğlu, encompassing the Galata Tower. If you happen to’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 plenty of music shops promoting some fairly attention-grabbing devices. The one draw back of Galata is that it’s situated on a really steep hill, so that you’ll want some comfy footwear (and a few stamina).

Execs of Staying in Galata

• A quieter place to remain in comparison with Taksim, however not too far-off from nightlife
• Relaxed nightlife
• Some nice cafes with affordable costs
• Nice for music followers
• Plenty of small memento outlets promoting distinctive objects

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

Greatest Locations to Keep in Galata

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

1. Azzap Lodge Galata: This is without doubt one of the greatest locations to remain in Istanbul heart with out being proper in the midst of the noise. In addition to its location, this lodge presents wonderful views and a complicated environment. Click on right here for particulars.

2. The Resorts, Galata: Not essentially the most imaginative title, however this highly-rated lodge is unquestionably value staying at. The comfy rooms provide sea or metropolis views and breakfast is included as effectively. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Ecole St. Pierre Lodge: This lodge is situated 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 on right here for particulars.

Prime Issues To Do in Galata

Galata presents an unostentatious expertise, however there’s a stunning 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 doubtless ever seen earlier than. I didn’t notably get pleasure from how slender it was, however a single-file method does the job. I took a guided tour right here, and I extremely suggest it. Click on right here for tour particulars and click on right here for instructions.

2. Galata Mevlevi Home Museum: That is the very 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 rapidly, so be sure to e-book forward in order to not miss out. Click on right here for instructions.

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

If you happen to head downstairs, you’ll see numerous fish eating places, though these are the costliest ones – there are cheaper and higher ones in Taksim and Beşiktaş. Click on right here for instructions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Galata

When trying to find 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 prime choose for breakfast. The standard kahvalti (Turkish breakfast) right here is exemplary, and also you positively gained’t be hungry for a superb few hours afterward. Click on right here for instructions.

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 essentially the most wonderful, sweeping view over the Golden Horn. It’s additionally one among my favourite locations for espresso and cake – be sure to attempt trilece, a scrumptious, milky cake. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Pepo’s Galata: Just a little upmarket however nice worth for cash, this restaurant is a best choice for {couples} particularly. The crispy Turkish ravioli is one among my favourite dishes right here, and the desserts are divine. Click on right here for instructions.

Üsküdar: Greatest for Households 

Situated on the Asian aspect of Istanbul, Üsküdar is a quieter space that provides nice transport hyperlinks to different components of town. If you happen to’re on the lookout for the place to remain in Istanbul for households, I’d suggest right here. It’s a secure 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 incredible lodges round this space too.

Execs of Staying in Üsküdar

• Among the finest locations to remain close to Istanbul’s most important heart, with out being proper within the midst of all of it
• Quiet and laid-back
• Offers you an genuine expertise
• Big selection of eating decisions
• Cheaper lodges 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 would like nightlife, you will have to go over to neighboring Kadıköy

Greatest Locations to Keep in Üsküdar

Some would possibly say Üsküdar is without doubt one of the posher areas of Istanbul, however it has some nice lodges, together with some with Bosphorus views. You’ll be able to’t go mistaken with any of the under:

1. Ottoman Suites by Sera Home: This attractive property is situated in a historic constructing, and presents a restaurant, outside seating areas, and it’s additionally pet pleasant. Deliver your furry pals! It is a incredible place to remain. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Might Otel Uskudar: What I loved most about this lodge was that it gave me all the things I wanted for a cushty keep however didn’t inflate the worth with pointless extras. It’s additionally very centrally situated, and the rooms are giant, making it ultimate for households. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Aspera Lodge Altunizade: This trendy lodge presents luxurious interiors and stylish rooms. There’s additionally a spa and well being membership with health heart, and an elegant restaurant. Click on right here for particulars.

Prime Issues To Do in Üsküdar

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

1. Maiden’s Tower: Situated on an islet within the Bosphorus, you’ll discover this picturesque tower, constructed in the course of the Byzantine period. There are many legends about why the tower was constructed, however lately you may get pleasure from a scrumptious meal on the restaurant inside. If you happen to don’t wish to go into the tower itself, you may sail previous it on a Bosphorus tour. Click on right here for tour particulars and click on right here for instructions.

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 ultimate for letting children run free and burn off some steam. There are cafes and picnic spots, however it’s only a fantastic place to absorb the peace and quiet. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Miniaturk: This enormous open-air museum reveals you the largest sights in the entire of Turkey in miniature. So, you may say you’ve type of “been” to part of the nation that’s far, far-off. Youngsters will love exploring the totally different landmarks, and it’s tremendous attention-grabbing for adults too. Click on right here for tour info and click on right here for instructions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Üsküdar

Nightlife in Üsküdar is fairly subdued, however that’s the best scenario once you’re touring with children. Listed below are my prime three locations to go to:

1. Kanaat Lokantası: I like conventional Turkish meals, however it’s not all about kebabs. This restaurant lets you 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 ultimate for choosy eaters. too. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Çengelköy Tarihi Çınaraltı: This family-friendly cafe and restaurant is a superb spot to get pleasure from some espresso and cake, or a light-weight meal like a burger. The breakfast right here can also’t be faulted. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Rainbow Cafe & Restaurant: If you happen to’re on the lookout for a restaurant that serves worldwide and Turkish dishes with a laid-back environment, that is the place to go. It’s an awesome spot for households, and their parts are beneficiant. Click on right here for instructions.

Beşiktaş: The Greatest Place in Istanbul on a Finances 

I feel Beşiktaş is without doubt one of the greatest neighborhoods in Istanbul and I’ve stayed there many occasions earlier than. It’s an awesome space for foodies, and it’s additionally pocket-friendly. If you happen to’re on the lookout for locations to remain in Istanbul for teams, you’ll discover some low-cost lodges 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 simply a 15-minute stroll away. I like the welcoming really feel of Beşiktaş, and regardless of it being very busy, it’s in some way additionally fairly chilled-out.

Execs 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 excellent vary of lodging, from low-cost to luxurious
• An excellent space for affordable buying

Cons of Staying in Beşiktaş

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

Greatest Locations to Keep in Beşiktaş

Beşiktaş is a big space, which encompasses not solely the central half but in addition right down to Ortaköy, the place the Bosphorus Bridge is situated. Because of its measurement, there are many lodging decisions to select from:

1. Melas Lodge Istanbul: This lodge presents many amenities, and should you’re on the lookout for the place to remain in Istanbul with parking, you’ll discover it right here. Rooms are giant and cozy, and the free continental breakfast is greater than sufficient to fill you up for the morning and past. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Armoni Residence Istanbul: If you happen to’re on the lookout for someplace to remain as a giant group, I’d extremely suggest this aparthotel. The flats are enormous and have two bedrooms whereas providing a really homely environment. Click on right here for particulars.

3. CLK Suites: I’ve stayed at this lodge just a few occasions and would completely return. It’s a comfortable area, and every room has a fridge, which is all the time very helpful once you wish to preserve your drinks and snacks cool. Click on right here for particulars.

Prime Issues To Do in Beşiktaş

Beşiktaş is the very 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 beloved Topkapı Palace, however for me, Dolmabahçe wins fingers down. The opulence is nearly incomprehensible, to the purpose the place it introduced tears to my eyes. A fast tip: arrive early to beat the queues which might be enormous, however I extremely suggest a guided tour for extra readability. Click on right here for tour info and click on right here for instructions.

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 de facto enjoyable. Ensure you attempt Kumpir (jacket potato with as many toppings as you need) and an enormous waffle with all of the trimmings. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Yıldız Park: As you’re researching the place to remain in Istanbul, you’ll come to appreciate that there are extra inexperienced areas than you might need thought; Yıldız Park is one among my favorites. This enormous open area is good for strolling, and also you’ll have the ability to do some hen watching too. Click on right here for instructions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Beşiktaş

The place to remain in Istanbul for meals? Positively Beşiktaş, – it’s top-of-the-line locations for road 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 one among their well-known sandwiches. Belief me, it’s value it. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Yalla Fallafel: The spot to have completely crispy fallafel balls, yummy hummus, gentle 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 the very best neighborhood for road meals. Click on right here for instructions.

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 effectively. It’s a real delight. Attempt it and see for your self. Click on right here for particulars.

Greatest Areas to Keep in Istanbul: FAQ’s

Listed below are some solutions to essentially the most generally requested questions on the very best areas to remain in Istanbul:

In Conclusion

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

For me, Istanbul is the very best metropolis on the planet. It’s bought all the things you could possibly want, it’s drenched in historical past, it has sufficient modern-day enjoyable to maintain even essentially the most stressed particular person busy, and the meals is like nowhere else. Simply go: that’s the very best recommendation I can provide; you gained’t be upset.