Istanbul is huge, so where you stay shapes your trip. These are the neighbourhoods that work best for visitors.
Hagia Sophia, Topkapı and the Blue Mosque on your doorstep, plus small hotels in old houses. Quiet at night and touristy by day; ideal for a short first visit.
Steep streets, rooftop bars, galleries and the Galata Tower. A tram ride from the old city and walking distance to İstiklal Avenue.
Designer boutiques, Dolmabahçe Palace and the ferry piers. Pricier, with the city’s best-known hotels along the water.
On the Asian side, with a famous food market, independent shops and a seafront promenade. Twenty minutes by ferry from Eminönü and noticeably cheaper.
Painted houses, antique shops and Greek Orthodox churches in the old Jewish and Greek quarters. Still rough around the edges, but full of character.
Browse hotels in Istanbul listed on Visit Turkey, or read when to go before you book.