Where to stay in Istanbul
When exploring Istanbul, staying in the central neighbourhoods can greatly enhance your experience. Taksim is the heart of the city on the European side, known for its diverse range of hotels, shopping options, and bustling entertainment scene. A short distance away, Sultanahmet serves as the cultural core, boasting high-quality hotels with beautiful views of the Marmara Sea and important landmarks like the Blue Mosque. For those seeking a blend of budget-friendly accommodations and close proximity to the new city's activities, Harbiye is an excellent choice, offering convenient access to Taksim and Nişantaşı. Beyoğlu, renowned for its lively nightlife and multifaceted historic and cultural attractions, provides numerous cafes and bar options along with various accommodation types. Finally, Beşiktaş offers a stay near the Bosphorus with numerous upscale hotels and local pubs, perfect for visitors wanting a mix of centrality and coastal charm. With Skyscanner, find the best deals for your Istanbul stay across these prime neighbourhoods.
Best hotels in Istanbul based on location
For the best located hotels in Istanbul, consider staying at the Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel, The Marmara Taksim, or GLK Premier The Home Suites & Spa. The Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel places you just 0.39 km from the city centre and a mere 0.32 km from the iconic Hagia Sophia Museum. It's perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in Istanbul’s rich history with effortless visits to its main attractions. While The Marmara Taksim is 3.54 km from the city centre, it’s a stone's throw (0.13 km) from Taksim Square, ideal for soaking up the city’s cultural hub and lively atmosphere. Finally, GLK Premier The Home Suites & Spa offers a fantastic location close to the city centre at 0.37 km and is just 0.82 km from the Hagia Sophia Museum. Each of these hotels allows guests to experience the heart of Istanbul, ensuring less time commuting and more time enjoying the city. Finding the best deals for these hotspots is easy with Skyscanner.
Good value hotels in Istanbul
Dem Istanbul Airport Hotel offers a convenient stay with its indoor pool, fitness centre, and airport shuttle, perfect for travellers prioritizing ease and comfort. In contrast, Istanbul Medikal Termal Hotel provides a touch of luxury with its hot spring baths, full spa services, and both indoor and outdoor pools, making it an excellent option for those looking to unwind in style. Elite World Istanbul Florya delivers a superb array of amenities including a children’s pool, full spa, and a restaurant, ideal for families and individuals alike. Look up the best deals on Skyscanner to find the right place for you.
Family-friendly hotels in Istanbul
Exploring Istanbul with your family? Consider hotels that specialize in family-friendly amenities for convenience and comfort. The Marmara Taksim features a children's pool where kids can splash around safely, complemented by babysitting services to give parents some much-needed downtime. Should any minor injuries occur, their on-site first aid room provides peace of mind. Opt for the Istanbul Medikal Termal Hotel, which not only offers a children's pool, but also a game room to keep the little ones entertained. Medical safety is also a priority here, with a first aid room for fast, effective care. For an all-encompassing stay, the Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul caters to children's needs with a playground and specialized facilities. Babysitting services ensure that parents can also enjoy some alone time, knowing their children are well looked after.
Istanbul's top attractions
When you're in Istanbul, don't miss the essential spots that highlight the city's rich history and culture. The Hagia Sophia, initially constructed as a Byzantine cathedral, later became an Ottoman mosque, then a museum, and now serves once again as a mosque. Just a short walk away, the Sultanahmet Mosque, often called the Blue Mosque for its blue tiles, stands impressive with its grand architecture and six minarets. Close by, the sprawling Topkapı Palace was once the administrative heart of the Ottoman Empire and offers a fascinating glimpse into regal life.
One attraction below the streets is the Basilica Cistern, known as Yerebatan Sarnıcı. It’s an ancient underground water storage hall featuring hundreds of vaulted columns. For unparalleled views, head to the Galata Tower. This medieval stone tower not only offers a stunning panoramic view of Istanbul but also houses an observation deck where you can take in the sprawling cityscape.
