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

Bounce To: Finest Areas | For First Timers | Nightlife | Cool Space | Funds | Meals | Historical past | FAQs

In case 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 ebook and go. That is my favourite metropolis in the entire world, and regardless of what number of instances I go to, I’m unsure it may ever be sufficient. Nonetheless, figuring out the place to remain in Istanbul is essential as a result of get it fallacious, 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 rely 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 can name all the 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 could be difficult for a first-time customer. Inside this put up, I’m going that will help you select the very best space to remain in Istanbul, Turkey so you’ve gotten a powerful 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: Finest Time to Go to Istanbul (Climate and Prices)

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 suggest Sultanahmet. Whereas this isn’t the right neighborhood solely (the place is?), it’s residence to nearly all of Istanbul’s high historic spots, and also you’ll be capable of get a snapshot of the 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 inns on this a part of the town, in addition to 1,000,000 and one (I didn’t rely) cafes and eating places.

Professionals of Staying in Sultanahmet

• You’re near the must-visit points of interest for a first-time customer
• The most effective locations in Istanbul for iconic photograph alternatives
• Pretty quiet after midnight, so it’s nice for getting a great evening’s sleep
• It’s simple 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 the very best and is sort of overpriced – you’ll be instructed it’s conventional, however it’s touristic-traditional
• In case you’re in search of the place to remain in Istanbul for procuring, this isn’t it – you’ll solely discover souvenirs
• In case 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 inns:

1. Radisson Lodge Istanbul Sultanahmet: In case you’re in search of the place to remain in Istanbul, and a central location is essential to you, this can be a nice alternative. It additionally gives among the best breakfasts I’ve skilled in a resort, permitting you to gas up and really feel happy for the day forward. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Sultan Tughra Lodge: This resort is likely one of the most unusual locations to remain in Istanbul situated inside a restored 100-year-old mansion. Nonetheless, it’s filled with all of the mod-cons you can want, and it incorporates a implausible on-site restaurant. Click on right here for particulars.

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

High Issues To Do in Sultanahmet

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

1. Blue Mosque: Positioned proper within the coronary heart of Sultanahmet and surrounded by stunning gardens, instantly 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 at all times 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 liked 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 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 have been the official residence of the Ottoman sultans in Istanbul, and the opulence is off the size. 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 a number of 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 the very best köfte within the space, and it’s been open since 1920, so that claims so much. For dessert, ensure you attempt İrmik helvası, which is certainly one of my favorites. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Matbah Restaurant: There are a number of eating places in Sultanahmet that say they make conventional Ottoman delicacies, however so much 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 certainly 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 on right here for instructions.

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 indubitably among the best areas to remain in Istanbul if you would like a vibrant expertise, however it’s additionally a type of locations the place it’s a must to use your widespread sense relating to security (take common precautions corresponding to 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 Avenue is packed regardless of the time of the day or evening and is residence to loads of bars, cafes, eating places, 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 awesome alternative for individuals who benefit from the fast-paced metropolis life-style.

Professionals of Staying in Taksim/Beyoğlu

• Finest place to remain in Istanbul for nightlife
• Buying right here is implausible
• 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 now and again, particularly Taksim Sq.
• Nightclubs don’t shut till very late into the evening, typically round 6 am, which implies a number of noise
• This space could be very busy, and strolling down Istiklal Avenue could be worrying, significantly at weekends
• Excessive costs in bars and eating places

Finest Locations to Keep in Taksim/Beyoğlu

The Taksim/Beyoğlu gives a variety of lodging, from price range to luxurious. Contemplate staying at one of many beneath choices:

1. Infinite Consolation Lodge Taksim: It actually is consolation by identify 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’ll’t beat the situation. In case you’re in search of Istanbul inns close to nightlife, I’d suggest this one. Click on right here for particulars.

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

3. Cihangir Residences: I discovered this house resort to be of wonderful worth and the restaurant on the highest ground gives superb 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.

High Issues To Do in Taksim/Beyoğlu

Now you realize 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 experience on this tram ought to be in your itinerary, (though it’s small so that you’ll should 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 and not using a information, you can miss a number 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 probably the most well-known sights within the space. The statue was constructed to honor the formation of the Turkish Republic again in 1923, and it’s a must have on your photograph 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 beneath:

1. Nook Irish Bar: I’m virtually an area at this place each time I’m in Istanbul; it’s such a heat and welcoming place. The meals provided is common pub meals, corresponding to burgers and pizza, however they do it extraordinarily effectively. 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 on right here for instructions.

2. WAMA’s: I believe I may need tried nearly all the pieces on this restaurant’s menu, and let me let you know, it’s not a small menu… Their lasagne is off the size, they usually do superb salads. I’d suggest this restaurant for households, because it’s homely they usually don’t serve alcohol; it has a fairly low-key ambiance. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Meat Moot: In case you’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 lots of Istanbul neighborhoods, however I don’t suppose any are as cool as Galata, which runs simply off Taksim and Beyoğlu, encompassing the Galata Tower. In case 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, reside music cafes, bookstores, and many music shops promoting some fairly fascinating devices. The one draw back of Galata is that it’s situated on a really steep hill, so that you’ll want some comfy sneakers (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 objects

Cons of Staying in Galata

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

Finest Locations to Keep in Galata

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

1. Azzap Lodge Galata: This is likely one of the finest locations to remain in Istanbul middle with out being proper in the course of the noise. In addition to its location, this resort gives superb views and a complicated ambiance. Click on right here for particulars.

2. The Lodges, Galata: Not essentially the most imaginative identify, however this highly-rated resort 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 resort 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 a wonderful restaurant and terrace. Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do in Galata

Galata gives 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 probably ever seen earlier than. I didn’t significantly get pleasure from how slim 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 be taught extra about what you’re witnessing. Nonetheless, it does promote out shortly, so ensure you ebook forward in order to not miss out. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Galata Bridge: This is likely one of the most iconic sights in Istanbul, and I’ve walked over it numerous instances taking pictures. You’ll see individuals fishing, promoting ankle bracelets, and snacks proper alongside its size on either side.

In case you head downstairs, you’ll see a number of fish eating places, though these are the most costly 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 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 likely one of the finest hidden gems within the metropolis, and it’s my high decide for breakfast. The standard kahvalti (Turkish breakfast) right here is exemplary, and also you undoubtedly received’t be hungry for a great 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 superb, sweeping view over the Golden Horn. It’s additionally certainly one of my favourite locations for espresso and cake – ensure you attempt trilece, a scrumptious, milky cake. Click on right here for instructions.

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

Üsküdar: Finest for Households 

Positioned on the Asian facet of Istanbul, Üsküdar is a quieter space that gives nice transport hyperlinks to different elements of the town. In case you’re in search of 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 implausible inns round this space too.

Professionals of Staying in Üsküdar

• The most effective locations to remain close to Istanbul’s most important middle, with out being proper within the midst of all of it
• Quiet and laid-back
• Provides you an genuine expertise
• Wide selection of eating decisions
• Cheaper inns in comparison with the European facet

Cons of Staying in Üsküdar

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

Finest Locations to Keep in Üsküdar

Some may say Üsküdar is likely one of the posher areas of Istanbul, however it has some nice inns, together with some with Bosphorus views. You may’t go fallacious with any of the beneath:

1. Ottoman Suites by Sera Home: This attractive property is situated in a historic constructing, and gives a restaurant, out of doors seating areas, and it’s additionally pet pleasant. Convey your furry associates! It is a implausible place to remain. Click on right here for particulars.

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

3. Aspera Lodge Altunizade: This fashionable resort gives luxurious interiors and chic rooms. There’s additionally a spa and well being membership with health middle, and an elegant restaurant. Click on right here for particulars.

High 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 simple attain of many:

1. Maiden’s Tower: Positioned on an islet within the Bosphorus, you’ll discover this picturesque tower, constructed through the Byzantine period. There are many legends about why the tower was constructed, however as of late you may get pleasure from a scrumptious meal on the restaurant inside. In case you 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 facet of the town is from this hill; it’s unbelievable. This enormous open house can 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 absorb the peace and quiet. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Miniaturk: This enormous open-air museum exhibits you the most important points of interest in the entire of Turkey in miniature. So, you may say you’ve sort of “been” to part of the nation that’s far, distant. Youngsters will love exploring the completely different landmarks, and it’s tremendous fascinating 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 state of affairs once 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 lets you attempt all various kinds of stews, vegetarian dishes, rice, salads, and desserts. It’s a self-service type, so you may take a look at the dish and select what you need. It’s superb 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 lightweight meal like a burger. The breakfast right here can also’t be faulted. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Rainbow Cafe & Restaurant: In case 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 awesome spot for households, and their parts are beneficiant. Click on right here for instructions.

Beşiktaş: The Finest Place in Istanbul on a Funds 

I believe Beşiktaş is likely one of the finest neighborhoods in Istanbul and I’ve stayed there many instances earlier than. It’s an awesome space for foodies, and it’s additionally pocket-friendly. In case you’re in search of locations to remain in Istanbul for teams, you’ll discover some low-cost inns 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 facet 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 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
• A fantastic vary of lodging, from low-cost to luxurious
• An excellent space for reasonable procuring

Cons of Staying in Beşiktaş

• The Metro doesn’t serve this space
• Getting a taxi could be extraordinarily tough, so it’s a must to depend on buses, trams, ferries, and strolling
• It’s just a little 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 additionally all the way down to Ortaköy, the place the Bosphorus Bridge is situated. Due to its dimension, there are many lodging decisions to select from:

1. Melas Lodge Istanbul: This resort gives many amenities, and in the event you’re in search of the place to remain in Istanbul with parking, you’ll discover it right here. Rooms are massive 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: In case you’re in search of 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 ambiance. Click on right here for particulars.

3. CLK Suites: I’ve stayed at this resort a number of instances and would completely return. It’s a comfortable house, and every room has a fridge, which is at all times very helpful once you wish to hold your drinks and snacks cool. Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do in Beşiktaş

Beşiktaş is the very best space to remain in Istanbul as a vacationer exterior 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 liked Topkapı Palace, however for me, Dolmabahçe wins fingers 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 could 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’ll stroll there in round 20 minutes. Not solely is the bridge fairly spectacular, however the Ortaköy space is absolutely enjoyable. Be sure 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 understand that there are extra inexperienced areas than you may need thought; Yıldız Park is certainly one of my favorites. This enormous open house is good for strolling, and also you’ll be capable of do some chook 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 among the best locations for avenue meals:

1. Karadeniz Doner: I ought to level out that I don’t like sometimes doner meat, however I do like this one. Karadeniz Doner has been open because the early ’70s, and also you’ll must get in line early if you wish to seize certainly one of 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, tender pita and creamy yogurt! It’d sound easy, however the flavors are out of this world. It is a highly regarded place – in spite of everything, Beşiktaş is the very best neighborhood for avenue 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. Strive it and see for your self. Click on right here for particulars.

Finest 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 simple activity; don’t fall into the widespread 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 dimension of it once I first visited, however it’s surprisingly simple to get round when you get your bearings.

For me, Istanbul is the very best metropolis on this planet. It’s obtained all the pieces you can want, it’s drenched in historical past, it has sufficient modern-day enjoyable to maintain even essentially the most stressed individual busy, and the meals is like nowhere else. Simply go: that’s the very best recommendation I can provide; you received’t be dissatisfied.