Updated Date : 15.01.2022
Where To Stay in Istanbul?
The first and the most critical question of the travel is "where will we stay?".
When it comes to Istanbul, we get lost in endless options. Istanbul Map often makes our job more accessible, but it can also be misleading. Rather than asking which hotel, choosing the right location can make your trip a lot easier.
Let us let you know where to stay in Istanbul while you're on tour now.
1) Most Preferred and Easy-to-Reach Locations
We have the top 3 areas; Galata , Sirkeci , and Sultanahmet quarters on the European side. If you intend to visit tourist attractions during your stay, these three areas are the most ideal for you. They are also very suitable for visiting the areas on foot by ignoring the traffic. They are suitable for a quick shower after a daily trip and changing for dinner. If you want to walk in the colorful streets before getting back to the hotel in the evening and looking for a Turkish Coffee House or a bar, they are the preferable areas.
Galata - Karakoy - Cukurcuma
This is the region of the Genoese history, living with Italian spirit since the 6th century. These are the most central urban locations were Jewish, Christian and Muslim populations live together.
Galata and Karakoy regions are including the most beautiful terrace bars and restaurants in the city. From different accommodation points, you can enjoy the view of the historical peninsula and the Asian continent. These are the most local and lively areas of the city with their narrow and colorful streets.
You can reach Taksim Square with a pleasant walk for about 2 km in 30 minutes, through Istiklal Street. With another 2.6 km nice walk, you can reach touristic attractions in the Sultanahmet area to visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome.You can also use the Istanbul map to get there. Top standard hotels and new generation hostels and Airbnb accommodation are suitable for friends located in the districts.
Sirkeci - Gulhane
Sirkeci is the economic and commercial center of the historical peninsula from the past to the present. If you prefer to stay in pleasant boutique hotels while traveling, this region maybe just for you. Sirkeci and Gulhane districts are only 1 or 2 tram stops away from Sultanahmet and the Spice Bazaar. They offer fast accommodation, especially for those who prefer short-term travel. If you like to have a nice walk in the early hours, the sweet and peaceful Gulhane Park will welcome you with squirrels and parrots. You can purchase spices at the Egyptian Bazaar. And if you want to go to the Asian side, you can take a ferry, and you'll land in 20-minutes.
Sultanahmet (Blue Mosque Area)
In the middle of history, in the heart of the historical peninsula, the Sultanahmet area is for an unforgettable and magical stay experience. There is intense tourist demand in this region due to the historical touristic attractions. High demand brings a variety of options for accommodation. You can also find the exact location on the Istanbul map described by Google for your assistance. This is a region where you can find different styles of hotels that suit your style, taste, and soul. This region, where you can find options from Turkish cuisine to Italian, from Indian cuisine to Yemeni, takes your evenings to another dimension with its sparkling streets. You can reach the Grand Bazaar by walking from only one tram stop.This area is one of the best if you are curious about where to stay in Istanbul.
2) Off-Beaten Local Accommodation
This is the title where you will be in the city center and mingle with the people. Let's say another Top 3 for off-beaten local areas; Kadikoy , Nisantasi , and Besiktas quarters. Let's say you spared your first day to historical and touristic visits, and you want to do something local during the rest of your trip. These three destinations can be your answer to stay involved in the local life.
Kadikoy - Fashion
Kadikoy, the apple of the eye of the Asian side. The intersection of those who go somewhere and those who come from somewhere. If you are looking for a region where you can encounter things constantly moving, Kadikoy is the place you are looking for. Kadikoy, former Khalkedon, is the most vibrant region of the Anatolian side. You can reach Eminonu or Karakoy in 20 minutes by taking a Turyol or Sehir Hatlari ferry from there. You can see the locals escaping from the city crowd for a while, landing on the shores of Moda district and ending the day.
Nisantasi
Manhattan's Soho comes to life again in Nisantasi in Istanbul. You can reach Taksim Square with a distance of 1.8 km. Nisantasi offers you a romantic story with its sweet little boutiques, designer shops, and chic restaurants. Nisantasi is your place if you want to experience luxury privilege like an Istanbulite with friendly boutique hotels just like the region. Maybe you can search for the exact location of the place with the help of the Istanbul map given by Google.
Besiktas - Ortakoy
Besiktas and Ortakoy regions are well known with Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, and 19th-century Mecidiye Mosque. Living in these places is just like a miracle. Besiktas is 3.5 km from Karakoy and 6 km from Sultanahmet. While its back streets offer great opportunities for young and dynamic travelers, luxury hotels along the Bosphorus are ideal for those looking for different experiences.
3) Business District
Istanbul, which has been one of the crossroads of trade for hundreds of years, still hosts business travelers today. Levent, 4th Levent, Maslak, Harbiye, Mecidiyekoy, Florya, Atasehir and Suadiye regions are accepted as the leading trade centers of the city.
If you want to stay in these regions, located within a 15-20 km circle, you can come across shopping malls, restaurants, and pleasant parks standing out.
The Final Word
Finding the right place to stay is as important as finding the right area in Istanbul. We hope you will get the best place where to stay in Istanbul.Whatever it happens, don't forget to make your stay a unique memory. If you are still confused about choosing accommodation, you can contact Istanbul E-pass and ask for guidance.