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 Golden Horn (Haliç). The Golden Horn is a flooded river valley, connecting with the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara. This historical natural harbor is now a main departure point for ferries, both going up the Bosphorus and heading for the Asian side.
The Golden Horn actually separates the old heart of Istanbul (Sultanahmet, Eminönü and Fatih) from the modern part of Istanbul (Taksim, Şişli, Beşiktaş, etc.).
There are two bridges crossing the Golden Horn: the Unkapanı or Atatürk Bridge, and the Galata Bridge. Especially the latter is of interest to tourists because it is the shortest way between Sultanahmet and Beyoğlu.
On the upper deck you’ll pass by a seemingly eternal line of fisherman while witnessing the bustling activity on the Golden Horn. A visit to the lower deck will provide you with a ringside seat in one of the many cheap cafés to watch boats come and go.
Sultanahmet
The biggest incentive to book a hotel in Sultanahmet is obviously its proximity to major sightseeing spots such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar, etc. They are all within walking distance of most hotels located in this area. The flip side is unfortunately that Sultanahmet turns into a pretty dead neighborhood once the sun sets. After dark the streets are empty and good night entertainment is scarce.
Beyoğlu
Beyoğlu is home to Dolmabahçe Palace, the Galata area with its famous tower, Istiklal Caddesi, etc. But the area is mostly known for its cozy neighborhoods (i.e. Cihangir, Galata), wide array of restaurants and cafés, and famous Istanbul night life. Beyoğlu is basically open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. But no need to worry, hotels are located in quieter areas, still within walking distance of all the action. Nişantaşı is next door so to speak, and shopping centers are only a metro ride away.
My Advice
The truth is that it’s inevitable to spend time in both areas. So you’ll always have to travel between the two, being it by public transportation or by taxi. I stayed in hotels in both areas on numerous occasions, and always felt I had the best time staying in the Beyoğlu area. I love to arrive at my hotel after a full day of sightseeing, freshen up for a nice dinner, enjoy the nightlife and being able to walk back home surrounded by people whenever I feel it’s time to recharge the batteries.
Patrick Nason says
My wife and I, in our 80’s plan a three day, April visit to Istanbul. With a slim budget can you recommend an area of the city for a hotel, restaurants, sight seeing, etc. Many thanks for any suggestions. Are sightseeing tours a good way of seeing the city without too much walking, queueing, etc?
Erlend says
Hi, given you age, I would suggest a hotel in Sultanahmet, since a lot of sightseeing spots are in that area. To have a nice overview of the city you could indeed take one of those hop-on hop-of tours, but to really visit the sightseeing spots you must of course walk. To reduce queuing time to a minimum, I suggest you buy your tickets online. Guided tours often have a shortcut, too. You can have a look at Get Your Guide, or you can consider using a multi-day Istanbul e-pass. I hope this helps.
Sam says
Thank you for the valuable information. I am travelling with an infant and will be using a stroller.
Are the streets, side walks, pavements stroller friendly? Or, it will depend on the area?
Also, if I will use public transportation, is it ok to take the stroller with me?
Thank you.
Erlend says
Hi Sam,
It really depends, but in the city center it’s ok to walk with a stroller. Your biggest chances of struggles are transitions from street to pavement, and when (old small) streets become really crowded. On public transportation, be prepared to have to fold the stroller and carry the infant if it’s really crowded. On the positive side, you’ll notice that Turks are very fond of children.
Farah says
Hi, Your site is very informative. Thanks for sharing the tips on Istanbul.
We are planning a trip in end October. Is Beyazit a good place to stay? We are thinking of Raddison President.
Erlend says
Yes, it’s ok.
Beth says
Hi! We are headed to Istanbul on October 8 with two small children (5 and 2 years old) and trying to decide how long to stay and in what area. We want to be able to easily see the sights and get around and don’t care about nightlife, though we will want to eat dinner out most nights. Thanks!
Erlend says
Hi,
In your case, I would suggest Sultanahmet I guess, since at least one of your children will be in a stroller I’m guessing. How long you should stay really depends on which sightseeing spots you definitely want to see. Obviously, your attractions per day will be lower than that of a childless couple.
M says
Hi! Thank you for this very clear explanation of the two. I have seen a hotel in Eyup. What is the nightlife like in this area? I will have 2 small children travelling with me.
Erlend says
Hi,
The nightlife is close to zero in Eyüp, and if you plan to do sightseeing with two kids, I don’t think Eyüp is the best area to stay.
Debby Williams says
I would like to visit Turkey. When should I get my visa? My passport is current. I’m traveling alone (woman) how much cash can I carry with me .
What kind of clothes is exceptable .
Can I easily get a motel on arrival?
Erlend says
Hi Debby,
Passport holders of most countries can buy their visa online. I wouldn’t carry too much cash on you, for safety reasons and because paying by credit card is very common in Istanbul. Any clothing you would wear in a major city at your country is fine, just remember to bring something to cover you hair and bare shoulders in case you plan to visit a mosque. If I were you, I would make motel or hotel reservations before arriving in Istanbul.
Hope this helps.
Ms. D says
You make me want to return to Turkiye for another trip. I LOVED traveling there before Erdogan’s reign. Now I worry whether it is safe for Americans during the Trump dominion. Istanbul and its people are lovely. Pemukkale/ Aphrodisias was an amazing diversion, and Ephesus was perfection for the tourist with a degree in Classical Civilization (Greece, Rome, and Egypt). The people and the hospitality were delightful! I highly suggest setting up a few host families to truly learn Turkish culture. 2 weeks was not nearly long enough. We missed everything east of Antalya.
Irfan says
thank you, very useful for planning my trip in October.