Istanbul, where do we have to start. Thanks to its unique geographical position, spread over two continents, Turkey’s largest city is endowed with enchanting nature and multicultural textures. The atmosphere is really alive, in line with modern dynamic life. With a history that stretches back to 2500 years, each neighborhood has its own food, culture, and unique nature. So, are you ready to travel to the city that was once named Constantinople? Sit back and relax, because we’ll explore some of the best hotels in Istanbul Turkey!
Where to Stay in Istanbul
As the largest city in Turkey, there are many top things to do in Istanbul. The country’s most populous city has a very rich history and culture. From beautiful architecture, charming local customs, stunning handicrafts, to gastronomy. You name it, they have it all!
However, it’s important to determine which best hotels in Turkey Istanbul to choose. That’s because each neighborhood has different characteristics and you need to adjust it to your activities and budget.
If you plan to travel to Turkey but don’t have much time, we highly recommend staying in Sultanahmet or the old town. The nightlife here’s pretty much non-existent, but you’ll easily find some notable landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. And don’t forget the Blue Mosque, one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. And don’t forget to stop by the Walled Obelisk, one of the 8 Most Amazing Obelisks In The World.
Traveling with family? Look for hotels near the Grand Bazaar. This area is known as one of the oldest covered markets in the world. Inside you’ll find tons of souvenirs, clothes, teas, sweets, and much more. Better yet, all prices are negotiable!
Once considered one of the world’s most expensive cities before the economic downturn, Istanbul has Beyoglu, a district filled with nightlife. Here you’ll find the Galata Tower, a great landmark with many restaurants, shops, pubs, and clubs all around.
So, have you decided where to stay? There’s no need to hurry. For some inspiration, you can read our recommendations for the best hotels in Istanbul Turkey below. We also have a list of Top 11 Gay Friendly Hotels in Istanbul in case you’re interested!
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
11
Get the best holiday experience in Turkey. That’s because while at Swissotel Bosphorus Istanbul, you’ll get an excellent service! This five-star luxury accommodation offers an award-winning spa and an exclusive rooftop pool. The scenery around it’s also amazing, as the hotel overlooks the Bosphorus. Get ready to shop around a lot because within a few steps you’ll find Nisantasi, the premier luxury shopping area around!
Renowned designer Khuan Chew make rooms at Swissotel Bosphorus Istanbul look elegant and warm. There’s a mix of Turkish warmth and Swiss design that just looks great. Standard amenities such as a work desk, sitting area, private bathroom, and a minibar are provided. As with most of the best hotels in Istanbul Turkey, free WiFi access is available in all areas. But you might want to be more thorough before booking a room, as some have bathtubs, while others have walk-in showers.
You’ll find a very lively atmosphere while staying here. That’s because this luxury hotel is one of the hot spots in the Besiktas area, thanks to 16 ROOF Restaurant and Cafe Swiss. Both are known for serving brilliant brunch menus, world cuisine, and Turkish delights. We also highly recommend stopping by their rooftop bar, which offers gorgeous views of the Bosphorus. Did you know that the Bosphorus Bridge is one of the 15 Famous Landmarks That Are Creepy Suicide Magnets?
When it comes to exploring around, you’ll be pleased to know that some of the country’s top landmarks are just around the corner. The Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar are all only 15 minutes’ walk away. Meanwhile, to get to the nearest airport you have to travel approximately 26 miles.
Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul
10
Get ready to be treated like a king during your stay at Ciragan Palace Kempinski. In this palace, you’ll have everything you need for ultimate comfort while in Istanbul! Occupying a real Ottoman palace from the 19th century, this five-star accommodation features a fully equipped spa area and wellness center. As a bonus, you’ll also get amazing views of the Bosphorus Strait!
This luxurious hotel also offers elegant and spacious rooms. The beds are luxurious, overlooking the beautiful landscapes of Istanbul, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. Even better, you can enjoy the surroundings more freely, as each room has a balcony with views of the garden or ocean. Imagine, waking up in the morning with a natural beauty that has been mesmerizing since the era of Constantinople. To us, this is called the perfect getaway!
An a la carte breakfast is available each morning in the downstairs lobby. You can enjoy your meal by sitting on the open terrace, accompanied by the stunning beauty of the Bosphorus. Stopping here in the early evening is a great idea, as they also serve pastries, snacks, and afternoon tea. For a more complete dining experience, head straight to The Bosphorus Grill, the hotel restaurant serving Turkish and International cuisine. As for some light refreshments, nearby Le Fumoir Bar comes highly recommended.
Like other hotels in Istanbul Turkey, Ciragan Palace Kempinski offers an ideal location for shopping and fun. In less than three miles, you will find Zorlu Center Mall and Cevahir Mall. Meanwhile, to get to the famous Hagia Sofia, you only have to travel about 3.1 miles.
CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul
9
CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel is a chic accommodation through and through. The interior is carefully designed, even to the smallest detail. Feast your eyes on a touch of beauty in every corner, from the guest rooms to their top leisure facilities. Yes, they have two swimming pools and a 91,493 sq ft spa center! Indulge in their excellent sauna, Turkish bath, steam room, and massage services.
Guest rooms, where we should start. Everything looks luxurious and incredibly comfortable. You’ll get top amenities such as LCD TV, electric kettle, coffee/tea maker, and many more. As with most of the best hotels in Istanbul Turkey, WiFi is available free of charge in all areas. Oh, and for those who travel with family, we recommend booking an apartment suite. Apart from being more spacious, this unit also features a fully equipped kitchen area.
For your culinary desires, CVK Park has three different restaurants. Starting from Izaka Restaurant, Mezze Mave, to The Midd, all are highly recommended. But for kebabs with an authentic taste, we prefer The Midd. Meanwhile, for more relaxing moments, Izaka is better. It has a bar and lounge with spectacular views of the Topkapi Palace, Bosphorus, and Golden Horn.
Want to start exploring around? Don’t push yourself because one day won’t be enough to see all that is offered here! A 400-meter walk will take you to Istiklal Avenue, where you’ll find a myriad of restaurants, cafes, art galleries, bars, and shops. Meanwhile, notable landmarks such as Vodafone Stadium and Dolmabahce Palace are only 0.74mil away.
Hilton Istanbul Bomonti
8
Hilton Istanbul Bomonto is just one stop away from Taksim Square, Turkey’s main tourist and leisure district. Many consider it the modern heart of Istanbul, as you’ll find a myriad of restaurants and shops there. It’s a must-visit while you are on the land of Constantinople.
Back to the Hilton Hotel, this five-star accommodation offers luxurious rooms with direct views of Turkey’s Asian and European sides. All are elegantly decorated, come with air conditioning, TV, and soft beds. For those who need to stay productive while on vacation, there’s a separate workspace. Let brilliant ideas flow, as you admire the gorgeous views of the Bosphorus. All thanks to the presence of floor-to-ceiling windows. As with the best hotels in Istanbul Turkey, this one also provides free WiFi access in all areas.
Breakfast is available each morning at The Globe. This all-day restaurant also serves International and Turkish cuisines. Everything is made from the best local ingredients and of course it’s full of flavor. For some relaxing and social moments, Cloud 34 would be a great choice. This terrace bar serves some great cocktails. You can enjoy it while sitting relaxed, looking at the beautiful view of the garden.
As for local attractions, the hotel is only a 15-minute walk to Nisantasi and Cevahir Mall. Both are among the trendiest districts and top shopping malls in Istanbul. For something even more unique, we recommend the Istanbul Sapphire, the tallest building in the city. You can visit the observation deck and admire the beauty of the entire city from a height. Oh, and you might also want to try a 4D helicopter simulation while you’re here. Enjoy a virtual journey like no other for no less than eight hours!
Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel
7
Sura Hagia Sophia is one of the best places to stay while in Turkey. This five-star accommodation features traditional Ottoman style architecture. It also boasts an outdoor pool and garden with diverse species of flowers. As with most of the best hotels in Istanbul Turkey, they provide a free WiFi connection at no extra cost.
Despite being located in the heart of Sultanahmet, one of the city’s busiest districts, you’re guaranteed a good night’s rest while at Sura Hagia Sophia. That’s because each hotel room has been soundproofed, giving a calm and serene atmosphere. In addition, you’ll get a number of standard amenities such as an LCD TV with satellite channels, an electric kettle, a minibar, and a private bathroom with free toiletries.
However, please note that not all rooms feature gorgeous views of the Hagia Sophia. If you want that, we recommend booking in advance since it’s very popular with tourists.
A buffet breakfast is available every morning. But if you’re interested in Ottoman cuisine, the elegant restaurant Deraliye is the place to be. Meanwhile, Sura Restaurant will be a paradise for those who prefer organic foods. All the vegetables and meat are produced from the hotel’s own farm, so there is no question of quality. For a calmer ambiance, there’s Sura Cafe with a lounge overlooking a large garden.
Shopaholics, get ready to dive into hundreds of vendors for accessories and ethnic Turkish goods as the hotel is only 800 meters from the Spice Bazaar. Meanwhile, for those who’re more interested in the historical side of the city, we recommend visiting Topkapi Palace. Before becoming a major museum, it served as the residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultanate.
Crowne Plaza Florya Istanbul
6
Since 2015, Crowne Plaza Florya Istanbul has hosted thousands of guests with its excellent world-class service. Perhaps you’re familiar with one of its branches in our list of 11 Best Hotels in Istanbul Airport. Located just 15 minutes from Istanbul Akvaryum, this five-star property boasts a fully-equipped fitness center. Just like most of the best hotels in Istanbul Turkey, also provides fast internet access via a free WiFi connection. In addition, ironing and dry cleaning services are also available.
Standing tall on the European side district, Crown Plaza Florya isn’t far from Kuyumcukent. Top destinations such as the Air Force Museum are only a 15-minute walk away. Meanwhile, places like Aqua Florya Mall, amusement park, oceanarium, and the stadium can be reached in just a few minutes.
All rooms at Crown Plaza come with a laptop-sized safe, refrigerator, and kitchenware. Smokers may be a little disappointed to know that they’re all smoke-free. But it will pay off with a beautiful view of the Sea of Marmara. Apart from that, the hotel also provides an electric kettle, dishwasher, and a wide selection of pillows.
As usual, buffet breakfast is always available every morning in the lobby. However, if you want to taste exotic Mediterranean dishes, we recommend stopping by the Salamina Restaurant. For a variety of Turkish dishes, head to a cafe nearby. Lastly, there’s also an evening bar that provides tea and coffee. It should be a great place to relax after a busy day exploring the city.
Radisson Blu Hotel Istanbul Pera
5
This luxurious accommodation is located in Pera, a district on Turkey’s European side known for its rich cultural and tourism potential. Staying at the Radisson Blu Hotel Istanbul Pera, you’ll be greeted by a stunning view of the Golden Horn and Istanbul’s old city every morning. The hotel also boasts a restaurant with brilliant Turkish dishes. But if you prefer a more authentic alternative, Istiklal Avenue is just meters away. It’s home to dozens of the city’s most famous restaurants, cafes, and bars.
The style of decoration in all the rooms of the Radisson Blu Hotel Istanbul Pera is something that can best be described as ‘soulful’. All come with a coffee/tea set up, minibar, laptop-sized safe, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. And just like most of the best hotels in Istanbul Turkey, WiFi internet access is provided free of charge.
Remember the hotel restaurant we mentioned earlier? It’s called Hamdi Restaurant and they serve traditional Turkish food. Located on the top floor, here you can enjoy your meal while being accompanied by a spectacular view of the old Turkish city. But if you think it’s too early for a heavy meal, head straight to Luna Lounge. In this quieter place, you can taste some delicious coffee and pastries.
For local attractions, places like Pera Museum, Galata District, and Old City are just a few steps away. You can also visit the Tunel, the oldest surviving urban underground rail line in continental Europe. Opened since 1875, the line stretches 1,800 ft, connecting the quarters of Karakoy and Beyoglu.
Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus
4
As the name suggests, this award-winning hotel offers a terrace with stunning views of the Bosphorus. Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus also has luxurious rooms and suites with contemporary designs. Its location is ideal for leisure travelers, providing easy access to the Asian side of the country and points of interest such as Dolmabahce Palace and Vodafone Park Stadium.
Apart from carrying a beautiful design, the rooms at Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus also come with a variety of essentials. There is an LCD TV, a Nespresso coffee machine, a seating area, a work area, and an iPod docking station. For an added touch of luxury, a bathroom with marble floors is provided. And just like most of the best hotels in Turkey Istanbul, you don’t have to pay extra for WiFi. It’s available free in all areas.
A full breakfast at Manzara is highly recommended. The hotel’s restaurant with an open kitchen concept offers a variety of Mediterranean views and an amazingly beautiful landscape of the Constantinople skyline. But if some light refreshment is enough for you, there’s Summit Bar & Terrace. There you can order your favorite beverage or cocktail and sit back while enjoying the city view.
If you’re not in the mood to travel far, indulging in hotel facilities isn’t a bad idea. Hotel Conrad has three tennis courts with indoor or outdoor options. In addition, there’s a leisure spa with Turkish Hammam services available at any time. Not enough? You’ll also find indoor and outdoor swimming pools too!
Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus
3
Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus isn’t just an ordinary hotel. This property is one of the most iconic in the city. First opened in 1955, it’s the longest-running Hilton Hotel outside of the United States. Interestingly, this five-star property was built from the ground up after World War II!
Apart from its long history, Hilton Istanbul offers an ideal location. It’s only a 10-minute walk to Taksim Square and 13 minutes to Osmanbey Metro Station. The scenery around here’s also amazing, facing directly beyond the beautiful Bosphorus Strait. As for leisure facilities, the hotel has indoor and outdoor swimming pools, traditional Turkish baths, and no less than six restaurant and bar options!
Hilton Istanbul’s rooms are all bright and feature private balconies overlooking the strait. The decor has a traditional Turkish accent. As for amenities, the hotel provides a TV, seating area, soft bed, and a private marble bathroom. Just like most of the best hotels in Istanbul Turkey, WiFi is available for free in the entire area.
For culinary delights, Hilton Istanbul gets you completely covered. Cantonese and Sechuan specialties are available at Dragon Restaurant. Meanwhile, Indian dishes are served at Dubb Indian Bosphorus Restaurant. Interested in a Turkish tavern-style culinary experience? Go directly to Lalezar Meyhanesi, which serves local and authentic food. Those looking for a calmer atmosphere can go to the Veranda Bar & Terrace. It has some great cocktails and an amazing view of the hotel’s garden.
Miss Istanbul Hotel & Spa
2
Located in the Fatih District, Miss Istanbul Hotel & Spa offers easy access to a number of the city’s unmissable spots. The Archaeological Museum is only 500 meters away, while the Basilica Cistern, the Grand Bazaar, and the Column of Constantine are nearby. This four-star accommodation also has a 24-hour front desk and several facilities such as a seasonal outdoor pool, free WiFi, and a spa & wellness center.
As with most of the best hotels in Istanbul Turkey, the rooms at the Miss Istanbul Hotel come with fairly complete amenities. You’ll get a soft bed, desk, kettle, satellite TV, and a private bathroom. If you need to welcome friends or receive guests, we recommend placing an order in advance. That’s because not all rooms here feature a seating area.
No different from other hotels, a buffet breakfast is available each morning at the on-site restaurant. As an alternative, they also serve Turkish menus. Muslim travelers can be relieved because all dishes at Miss Istanbul Hotel are claimed to be halal. Unfortunately, it wasn’t clear whether they provided options for guests who prefer vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free food.
Apart from the destinations we mentioned earlier, Miss Istanbul Hotel is also not far from the Blue Mosque, less than a mile away. Originally named the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, this functional place of worship sits right on the legendary Hagia Sophia and is one of the country’s popular tourist sites.
Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina Hotel
1
Taste the Asian side of Istanbul, as this hotel is located right next to Kalamis Marina and Kalamis Park. Within walking distance, you can also find Fenerbahce Marina and Sukru Saracoglu Stadium. As for leisure facilities, the newly built Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina offers two swimming pools, an indoor heated pool, a fitness center, and a spa area.
It has become a standard that rooms at Wyndham Hotels carry a stylish décor and here’s no difference. Apart from that, they all come with amenities such as a TV with satellite channels, a coffee/tea maker, and an iPod player. As with almost all the best hotels in Turkey Istanbul, free WiFi is available in all areas. If you need anything, the 24-hour room service is available.
For your culinary needs, Wyndham Istanbul provides no less than eight restaurants and cafes. Breakfast can be found at Remina, while the best seafood is served at the Cuzo Roof Restaurant. For refreshing and light cocktails, there’s the Lobby Lounge and the Jigger Roof Bar.
10 minutes from here is Bagdat Avenue. Many call this area as glamorous as Istiklal Avenue on the Asian side. You’ll find tons of shopping malls, department stores, fashion fabric shops, restaurants, and local cuisines. Even better, nearly all retail stores are open all week, including Sunday afternoons!
Recommended Restaurant/Bars in Istanbul:
- Fatih Damak Pide – Taste true Turkish cuisine, as this restaurant is best known for its Karadeniz-style pide. Before the main menu is served, you’ll be treated to a pot of tea. There are many toppings to choose from, but we highly recommend sucuklu-peynirli aka sausage and cheese.
- Balikci Sabahattin – If you’re looking for the best food in the Sultanahmet district, this is the place to be. This leafy canopy dining venue serves especially delicious cold mezes and an incir tatlisi dessert with ice cream. Make sure to stop by if you’re around Cankurtaran.
- Karakoy Gulluoglu – First opened in 1949, it is one of Istanbul’s most legendary baklava shops. You can choose from a variety of flavors, but the most popular are fistikli aka pistachio and cevizli aka walnut. They also provide a glass of tea to dampen the sweet taste a little.
Recommended Activities in Istanbul:
- Best of Istanbul in 1 Day – Make sure you don’t miss any of the must-see sights in Turkey’s largest city. For no less than seven hours, this tour will take you to several notable landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Sophia. You’ll also be accompanied by an experienced guide who is fluent in English!
- Hagia Sophia: Skip-the-Line Ticket with Guided Tour – Discover the world’s largest place of worship without having to wait in long lines. Admire every column and dome of this magnificent architecture by Emperor Justinian. This is guaranteed to be your best travel experience while in Turkey!
- Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Dance Show – There’s no better way to enjoy the beauty of the Bosphorus Strait than this. Marvel at one of Istanbul’s greatest waters on a luxury journey aboard a cruise ship. Enjoy a special dinner, accompanied by Turkish dance and dazzling drama performances!
