Last updated: May 14, 2023 This overview of the best hotels in Istanbul consists of my favorite boutique, three-, four-, and five-star hotels. It's not a list of the most well-known brands or usual suspects. The focus here lies on value for money. For your convenience, I categorized them by stars or type. Summary Boutique Hotels 5-Star Hotels 4-Star Hotels 3-Star … [Read more...]
Hotels in Istanbul: Expectations and Facilities
Once you decided on the area your hotel should be located in, it’s time to pick one that fits your needs. A tough choice. Istanbul has been accommodating tourists for over two centuries and therefore has plenty of choices. Whether you want to pass the night in an Ottoman palace, a renovated manor, a traditional wooden house or a contemporary (luxurious) hotel, Istanbul has it … [Read more...]
The Modern Part of Istanbul
Although this part of town houses less historical landmarks than the historical peninsula of Istanbul, neglecting the modern part of Istanbul would be a shame. It still has a fair amount of must-see sightseeing spots and is the place to be if you’re in for shopping, wining and dining or a great night out. The modern part of Istanbul is the area north of the Golden Horn and … [Read more...]
The Historical Peninsula of Istanbul
If this is your first time to Istanbul, you’ll be spending most of your time in this area of the city. Simply because it is home to most of the unmissable and famous sights. The historical peninsula of Istanbul is the area south of the Golden Horn and consists of boroughs such as Beyazıt, Eminönü, Fatih, Kumkapı, Sirkeci, Süleymaniye, Sultanahmet, and Tahtakale. Below you find … [Read more...]
Where to Stay in Istanbul – Beyoğlu or Sultanahmet
Should I look for a hotel in Sultanahmet or Beyoğlu? That's a question people often ask me while they're planning their trip to Istanbul. The problem is that there is no straightforward answer to it. It's merely a matter of preference. Let me explain the pros and cons of both locations. Golden Horn Sultanahmet and Beyoğlu are almost neighboring areas, if it wasn't for the … [Read more...]