Best Hotels in Istanbul: What I Recommend

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.

Boutique Hotels

1. Tomtom Suites Istanbul

At Tomtom Suites Istanbul, rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with even standard rooms offering luxury amenities such as a king-size bed and a jacuzzi bath. The marble accents throughout the hotel add a touch of elegance to your experience.

The rooftop restaurant is a perfect place to start your day, savoring the view over the Golden Horn while enjoying a delicious breakfast.

Location-wise, the hotel is ideally situated just a 5-minute walk from Istiklal Street, with plenty of amazing restaurants and cafes. The hotel’s proximity to the Italian consulate is a sword that cuts both ways: the area is secure and secluded, providing you with peace of mind during your stay. But this also means that taxis may not be able to drop you directly at the hotel’s doorstep.

More details on TomTom Suites

2. White House Hotel Istanbul

Beyond its unbeatable location, the White House Hotel Istanbul boasts elegantly appointed rooms. The fusion of Ottoman-inspired décor and modern amenities provides a unique atmosphere. Yet, it’s worth noting that some may find the decoration of the rooms to be kitschy due to the excessive use of gilding.

During your stay, be sure to indulge in the hotel’s authentic Turkish breakfast, featuring an array of delicious local specialties. The rooftop terrace offers breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul, ideal to enjoy a delicious breakfast or relax with a drink in the evening.

The location is unbeatable, situated in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district, just steps away from iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.

More details on White House Istanbul

3. The Bank Hotel Istanbul

The Bank Hotel Istanbul is an exceptional five-star boutique hotel that offers an unforgettable experience to its guests. Housed in a historical building in the up-and-coming district of Karaköy, the hotel’s location is convenient for exploring the bohemian Beyoğlu and historic Sultanahmet.

The high-ceiling rooms are beautifully designed with attention to detail, and the bed is super comfortable. The bathroom is particularly impressive, with a well-thought-out and modern design. Moreover, the hotel’s rooftop bar offers breathtaking views of the Bosphorus, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploring Istanbul.

The breakfast buffet offers both international and Turkish cuisines. The Bank Hotel Istanbul also provides a spa and fitness center, ensuring guests can relax and rejuvenate themselves during their stay.

More details on The Bank Hotel Istanbul

4. Hotel DeCamondo Galata

At Hotel DeCamondo Galata history meets modern comfort. Located in the historic part of Istanbul, the hotel is housed in the iconic Camondo Building, designed by Gabriel Tedeschi, the architect of the Ashkenazi Synagogue.

The hotel is clean and quiet, and the rooms are equipped with modern amenities. You can enjoy an excellent breakfast with a magnificent rooftop view.

While the hotel is located in a small quiet alley, on top of the DeCamondo stairs, it is literally in the very center of Istanbul, close to Taksim and other areas of interest.

Please note that driving to the hotel can be challenging due to the steep uphill location, but the hotel can arrange taxis for you. Some guests may find the windows thin, resulting in minimal sound insulation. The central location of the hotel can sometimes result in noise from the street, especially at night. The bed may also be shorter for taller guests.

More details on Hotel DeCamondo Galata

5. Romance Hotel Istanbul

At Romance Hotel Istanbul you’ll experience an authentic and romantic oriental atmosphere! The hotel’s stunning Ottoman style has spacious rooms that exude character and charm.

Start your day with a fantastic breakfast featuring a variety of Turkish offerings, fresh fruit, and savory dishes including made-to-order omelets.

The hotel’s central location is perfect for exploring the major historical attractions of Istanbul. While the hotel doesn’t have an evening restaurant, the surrounding neighborhood is alive with dozens of dining options. The lovely spa offers a chance to relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploring the city.

However, please note that the hotel lacks a bar or a pleasant relaxation area, limiting options for unwinding outside of your room. Also, the noise from the trams can be bothersome in the early morning.

More details on Romance Hotel Istanbul

5-Star Hotels

1. Swissotel The Bosphorus

Swissotel Istanbul is an excellent hotel with spacious, modern, and comfortable suites, some having a beautiful view of the Bosphorus. The housekeeping service is top-notch, ensuring that the rooms are always clean, tidy, and stocked

The hotel is perfect for families, with its welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly amenities. The hotel staff is exceptional, always smiling, available, and caring, making your stay a memorable one.

Breakfast has many options, including a covered terrace for a lovely experience. However, breakfast closes a bit early at 10:30. Dining options are also outstanding, with Madhu’s restaurant being a great addition, serving delicious food. The hotel also has a great pool.

The hotel’s location is excellent, near Besiktas Square, with a stunning view of the Bosphorus, making it an unforgettable experience. The only downside is that the hotel is not so close to public transport, but the staff is always willing to call a taxi for you.

More details on Swissotel Istanbul

2. Pera Palace Hotel

The Pera Palace Hotel, with breathtaking views of the Golden Horn, is a gem for those interested in history. This elegant hotel is steeped in history and has accommodated many famous guests, including Queen Elizabeth and Jackie Onasis Kennedy. Agatha Christie even wrote Murder on the Orient Express within its walls, and Orient Express passengers used to stay there.

The large rooms are equipped with modern amenities and feature beautiful 19th-century decoration that makes the hotel feel like a museum. The property is well-maintained, with fantastic architecture and furniture.

The spa is excellent, and the food is also great value for money, especially the breakfast and dinner.
Its location is fantastic, with numerous restaurants, clubs, artist ateliers, and galleries just a few steps away.

Overall, the Pera Palace Hotel is an atmospheric, historic hotel with a winning location, and it’s definitely worth a stay or a visit.

More details on Pera Palace Hotel

3. Raffles Istanbul

From the moment you step into the Raffles Istanbul Hotel, you’ll feel like a VIP. The staff is professional, and friendly, and goes above and beyond to make your stay comfortable and memorable.

The hotel has a fantastic spa that is perfect for relaxing and rejuvenating, and the beds in the rooms are divine, ensuring a good night’s sleep. The rooms are spacious, beautifully decorated, and have all the amenities you need.

Raffles is conveniently located right next to Zorlu Mall, which has a variety of shopping and dining options. While the Turkish breakfast buffet is somewhat limited, the service is perfect.

Raffles Istanbul is a high-end luxury hotel with great customer service offering an exceptional experience.

More on Raffles Istanbul Hotel

4. AJWA Sultanahmet

AJWA Sultanahmet is a stunning five-star hotel in the heart of Istanbul, offering a luxurious and comfortable stay for its guests. The hotel’s decor and cleanliness are exceptional, and the attentive staff goes above and beyond to ensure every guest feels welcome and special.

One of the highlights of this hotel is the delicious and healthy breakfast buffet, featuring locally sourced foods. The hotel’s 8th-floor restaurant also offers a stunning view of the city. While the hotel does not serve alcohol during dinner, they have a lounge/smoke room.

Although the area outside the hotel may be run down and the road is extremely busy, the hotel’s interior provides a beautiful and peaceful escape. However, one inconvenience to note is that the spa is separated by gender, and couples cannot enter together.

The hotel’s location is ideal for sightseeing in the Old City of Istanbul, as it is within walking distance of many major attractions, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.

More details on AJWA Sultanahmet

5. The Peninsula Hotel Istanbul

Timeless elegance meets modern sophistication at The Peninsula Hotel Istanbul.

Nestled in the heart of Istanbul’s historic district, this 5-star luxurious hotel offers a refined blend of Turkish culture and world-class hospitality. The hotel boasts spacious and exquisitely appointed rooms and suites, featuring panoramic views of the Bosphorus Strait and the city’s iconic skyline.

For those seeking relaxation, the hotel’s spa offers an array of rejuvenating treatments, including traditional Turkish hammam rituals. Stay fit in the state-of-the-art fitness center or take a dip in the indoor pool for a refreshing swim.

More details on The Peninsula Hotel

4-Star Hotels

1. Witt Istanbul Hotel

At Witt Hotel Istanbul you’ll experience a truly exceptional stay. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the friendly and helpful staff who go above and beyond to make your stay memorable. They assist with booking restaurants and Turkish bath experiences and are always ready to provide recommendations for the best local spots.

The well-decorated and spacious rooms are equipped with a great marble bathroom including a rain shower, and a kitchen, which offers great convenience for longer stays. Rooms have panoramic views of the city or Bosporus straight.

The efficient and professional housekeeping team ensures that your room is spotless, while the friendly staff serving breakfast makes sure you start your day with a smile.

The location of Witt Hotel Istanbul is ideal, with everything you need within walking distance. The neighborhood is bustling with shops, cafes, and restaurants, giving you an authentic taste of Istanbul’s vibrant culture. While the tram station is a few minutes away, please note that there is a steep slope to the hotel, which may be challenging with large luggage, but it is manageable.

More details on Witt Istanbul Hotel

2. Kate Hotel Istanbul

The Kate Hotel Istanbul is located in the heart of Sultanahmet, just 5 min. walk from iconic attractions such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Cistern Basilica, offering a prime location for exploring all the historic points of interest in the old city.

One of the standout features of the Kate Hotel Istanbul is its quiet and cozy atmosphere. With new equipment and furniture, as well as high-quality linens, you’ll feel right at home in their comfortable and modern rooms. The ensuite shower/hammam bath is a luxurious touch that adds to the overall relaxation of your stay.

The breakfast options at this hotel are diverse and cater to different dietary preferences, including buffet, à la carte, and vegan choices.

More details on Kate Hotel Istanbul

3. FER Hotel

Fer Hotel Istanbul is a sincere and realistic recommendation for travelers looking for a well-located, clean, and comfortable hotel in Istanbul.

While the rooms at Fer Hotel Istanbul may be on the smaller side, they are cozy, modern, and clean, ensuring a comfortable stay. The breakfast offered at the hotel is excellent, with a wide variety of sweet and salty treats to choose from, served in a rooftop setting, providing a great start to your day.

The hotel’s excellent location puts you within walking distance of some of the city’s most iconic attractions, such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and The Grand Bazaar.

While it may not have all the facilities of a luxury hotel, it offers great value for its location and amenities, making it a worthy choice for your stay in Istanbul.

More details on FER Hotel Istanbul

4. Neorion Hotel Istanbul

The rooms at Neorion Hotel Istanbul are impeccably clean and spacious, including a well-equipped bathroom with a large shower and bathtub, offering ample water pressure.

The hotel staff at Neorion Hotel Istanbul is always ready to assist you with any needs or questions, ensuring that you have a comfortable and hassle-free stay.

The breakfast buffet at the hotel is truly exceptional. With a wide range of hot and cold selections, including a whole honeycomb to draw from, the breakfast is plentiful and offers excellent choices, including options for vegans.

One of the highlights of Neorion Hotel Istanbul is its swimming pool, sauna, and marble Turkish bath, which are available for guests to use for free.

Situated in the heart of the city, many major attractions such as Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace are just a short walk away. Although it may get a bit noisy in the evenings due to the central location.

More details on Neorion Hotel

3-Star Hotels

1. Magnaura Palace Hotel

The Magnaura Palace Hotel may be a small property with small rooms and tiny balconies, but its prime location near all the places of interest in Sultanahmet makes it perfect for tourists who want to be close to the action.

The highlight of this hotel is undoubtedly its breathtaking terrace, where the breakfast room is located. With panoramic views of the Bosporus, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque, you’ll be treated to an amazing vista while enjoying a delicious and healthy breakfast, though it remains the same throughout your stay.

The rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-equipped with a fridge and coffee maker. Even on the second floor, you’ll still have a good view of the bay and the city. The hotel also offers car service to and from the airport, making your travel arrangements hassle-free.

One thing to keep in mind is that the hotel is located in a one-way road system, so getting a taxi right to the door may not always be easy.

More details on Magnaura Palace

2. Osmanhan Hotel

The Osmanhan Hotel is a relatively small hotel, but it creates a warm and personal atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. The tastefully designed and well-maintained rooms provide comfort and relaxation after a day of exploring the city.

One of the highlights of Osmanhan Hotel is the exceptional service provided by the staff. Their attentiveness and friendliness are rare, making you feel welcomed and valued throughout your stay. The breakfast buffet offers a variety of Turkish and European options, and the rooftop terrace where it is served, overlooking the Bosphorus, is a breathtaking spot to start your day.

The hotel’s location is excellent, within walking distance to major sites such as the Blue Mosque, and conveniently close to public transportation.

It’s important to note that there is no elevator, so guests with accessibility issues should take note. However, the beautiful and cozy rooms, delicious breakfast, good Wi-Fi, and helpful staff more than make up for it.

More details on Osmanhan Hotel

3. Hacibayram Hotel

HaciBayram Hotel is a comfortable, fresh, clean, and warm boutique hotel in the historical old city. One of the highlights of this hotel is its unbeatable location. In just 3 minutes, you can be at Sultanahmet Square, as well as restaurants and cafes.

Imagine enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant while watching the Obelisk, the Blue Mosque, and the Marmara Sea – the view is simply breathtaking!

The staff at HaciBayramHotel are outstanding. The rooms are very comfortable and spotlessly clean. The hotel’s overall condition and finish are impressive, especially considering its affordable price range.

More details on HaciBayram Hotel

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission to keep the site ad-free. I only recommend products and companies I use or have used.