20 Best Hotels in Istanbul, Turkey

Our Favourite Stays

If you are short on time, these four cover the price tiers: The Peninsula Istanbul (luxury), Me by Mula (comfort), Marlon Hotel (standard) and Union Hotel Port (budget). They come from research, not from stays of my own. The full list of 20, with prices, is further down.

The Peninsula Istanbul

(Luxury Hotel)

• Private Yacht Arrival
• Bosphorus Views
• Elegant Rooftop Bar

The Peninsula Istanbul opened in 2023 on the Bosphorus waterfront in Karaköy, in four buildings that combine restored heritage architecture with contemporary design. It has 177 rooms and suites with bespoke furnishings and Marmara marble bathrooms, and many have private balconies, terraces or garden access. Guests can arrive by land, by sea, or on the hotel’s yacht.

The spa and wellness centre has indoor and outdoor pools and guided meditations. GALLADA is the rooftop restaurant, serving Turk-Asian dishes with panoramic views, the Topside Bar serves cocktails, and brunch is served in The Lobby. At 750€ for two it is the second most expensive hotel on this list, with a 9.4 rating.

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Me by Mula

(Comfort Hotel)

• Heart of Historic Center
• Boutique Design Stays
• Sea & City Views

Me by Mula is in Sultanahmet, on Mustafa Paşa Sokak, a 5-minute walk from Sultanahmet Square and the Blue Mosque. Rooms combine natural materials with contemporary technology, and many have street or sea views.

Rooms range from compact Superior Rooms to Family Suites and the Hammam and Marmara Suites, which have sea views. Extras include Nespresso machines, climate control and in-room safes. At 160€ for two it is the cheapest of the comfort hotels here, rated 9.6.

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Marlon Hotel

(Standard Hotel)

• Landmarks & Shopping Nearby
• Warm & Attentive Service
• Spa Baths

Marlon Hotel is in Taksim, in the entertainment district, close to shops and nightlife, with the main landmarks within reach.

Rooms and suites have plush bedding and city views, and some have spa baths. There is a spa and a breakfast, and reviews describe the staff as warm and attentive. At 143€ for two it is rated 9.8, the joint highest rating among the standard hotels here, with Bram Hotel.

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Union Hotel Port

(Budget Hotel)

• Central & Peaceful
• Cozy Modern Rooms
• Friendly, Welcoming Staff

Union Hotel Port is in Fındıklı, in Beyoğlu, a short walk from Kabataş station, Dolmabahçe Palace and the ferries across the Bosphorus. It is on a quieter street.

Rooms are cozy and modern, with daily cleaning. Guests praise the staff, who give sightseeing tips. At 59€ for two it is the second cheapest of the budget hotels here, with a 9.7 rating.

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Where to Stay in Istanbul

Istanbul spans two continents and the Bosphorus, so where you stay decides how much of your day goes on getting between sights. Here are the main areas and what each is known for.

Sultanahmet: Best for History Lovers

If it is your first time in Istanbul, Sultanahmet puts you next to the old city’s main sights, and most of them are within walking distance of each other.

• Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque: On either side of Sultanahmet Square.
• Topkapi Palace: The palace of the Ottoman sultans.
• Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar: Covered markets selling carpets, spices and ceramics.

Here are some hotels in Sultanahmet.

Beyoğlu (Taksim, Galata & Cihangir): Best for Nightlife and Dining

Beyoğlu is on the European side, north of the Golden Horn. It has shops, restaurants and nightlife, and several distinct neighborhoods.

• Istiklal Avenue: A pedestrian street with shops, cafés and nightlife.
• Galata Tower: Climb it for views over the Golden Horn.
• Cihangir: A neighborhood known for its art spaces and cafés.

Here are some hotels in Beyoğlu.

Beşiktaş & Ortaköy: Best for Bosphorus Views

Beşiktaş is a busy district on the European shore of the Bosphorus, known for its markets, taverns and its football club. Ortaköy, further up the waterfront, has Bosphorus views and a bazaar.

• Beşiktaş Fish Market & Turkish breakfast: Popular with locals.
• Dolmabahçe Palace: A mix of Ottoman and European styles.
• Ortaköy Mosque & Square: On the water, with the Bosphorus Bridge behind it.

Here are some hotels in Beşiktaş and Ortaköy.

Kadıköy & Moda (Asian Side): Best for the Asian Shore

Kadıköy and Moda are on the Asian side, across the Bosphorus. Kadıköy has a food market, and Moda is a seaside neighborhood with a promenade and tea gardens.

• Kadıköy Market: Street food, spices and fresh produce.
• Moda promenade: A seaside walk with tea gardens.
• Ferry rides: Ferries connect the Asian and European sides.

Here are some hotels in Kadıköy & Moda.

Nişantaşı & Şişli: Best for Shopping

Nişantaşı and Şişli are neighboring districts north of Taksim. Nişantaşı has luxury boutiques and art nouveau buildings, and Şişli has the Cevahir Mall and metro connections.

• Nişantaşı: Luxury boutiques, art nouveau buildings and cafés.
• Şişli: Home to Cevahir Mall and metro connections.
• Maçka Park: A city park near Nişantaşı.

Here are some hotels in Nişantaşı and Şişli.

Üsküdar: Best for Ottoman Mosques

Üsküdar is on the Asian side and has Ottoman mosques and waterfront promenades.

• Mihrimah Sultan Mosque & others: Ottoman mosques on the waterfront.
• Çamlıca Hill: The highest hill overlooking the city, with views over Istanbul and the Bosphorus.
• Seaside promenades: Popular for a walk at sunset.

Here are some hotels in Üsküdar.

Price Comparison

Rooms for two people in EUR

Luxury Hotels

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet is in a neoclassical building designed in 1918 by the architect Mimar Kemaleddin. It was a prison before it became a hotel. It has 65 rooms and suites, many of them overlooking a courtyard, and the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar are a short walk away.

Bathrooms are clad in marble, and some suites look toward the Sea of Marmara. The Kurna Spa offers hammam rituals, massages and Biologique Recherche facials, and Avlu is the restaurant. At 851€ for two it is the most expensive hotel on this list, with a 9.2 rating.

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The Peninsula Istanbul

The Peninsula Istanbul opened in 2023 on the Bosphorus waterfront in Karaköy, in four buildings that combine restored heritage architecture with contemporary design. It has 177 rooms and suites with bespoke furnishings and Marmara marble bathrooms, and many have private balconies, terraces or garden access. Guests can arrive by land, by sea, or on the hotel’s yacht.

The spa and wellness centre has indoor and outdoor pools and guided meditations. GALLADA is the rooftop restaurant, serving Turk-Asian dishes with panoramic views, the Topside Bar serves cocktails, and brunch is served in The Lobby. At 750€ for two it is the second most expensive hotel on this list, with a 9.4 rating.

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Cronton Design Hotel

Cronton Design Hotel is in the 1st Vakıfhan building in Eminönü, built in 1911 by the architect Kemaleddin and restored to keep its neoclassical character. It has 39 rooms and suites, and its four facades look over the skyline, close to Sirkeci and the historic peninsula.

The Historic Sirkeci Restaurant 1912 serves Turkish and international food, and the Cronton Roof & Terrace has views. The spa has a traditional Turkish bath and a sauna, and there is a wine cellar, a beauty lounge and a gift shop. At 737€ for two it is rated 9.3.

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Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul

Çırağan Palace Kempinski is on the Bosphorus and is a former Ottoman imperial palace. Its redesign was guided by the Ottoman art expert Serdar Gülgün and Toner Architects, with a marble lobby, octagonal seating and rooms decorated with tulip motifs.

There are two signature restaurants serving Turkish and Mediterranean food, and Gazebo, a waterfront café with Iznik tilework. The Sanitas Spa has hammam rituals, and the outdoor infinity pool looks over the strait. The listing describes the Sultan Suite as one of the largest in Europe. At 514€ for two it has the highest rating among the luxury hotels here (9.5).

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Gleam Collection Hotel

Gleam Collection Hotel is in the Şişli district, in a 19th-century building, a short drive from Dolmabahçe Palace, Galata Tower and Hagia Sophia. Rooms range from balcony and terrace rooms with city views to family suites with private gardens. Smart TVs, minibars and fast Wi-Fi are standard, and suites add Nespresso machines, jacuzzis and in-room Turkish breakfast.

Breakfast is an open buffet at the Gleam Lounge, and the Gleam Bar & Bistro serves drinks in the evening. The spa has a Turkish bath, a sauna and a steam room, and the fitness area is open 24 hours. At 315€ for two it is the cheapest of the luxury hotels here, with a 9.2 rating.

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Comfort Hotels

Golden Horn Bosphorus Hotel

Golden Horn Bosphorus Hotel is in Sirkeci, right behind the historic Sirkeci station, now a Marmaray stop that links the European and Asian sides. Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar are within walking distance.

Rooms range from Superior Rooms to suites with Bosphorus views, for families, couples and solo travelers. They have smart TVs, minibars and bathrobes, and some have balconies. At 295€ for two it is the most expensive of the comfort hotels here, with a 9.9 rating, shared with HaciBayram Hotel.

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White House Hotel Istanbul

White House Hotel Istanbul is in the historic center, within walking distance of Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. The building mixes eastern and western architectural elements.

It is small, with 22 rooms. Each has Wi-Fi, a minibar and air conditioning. At 261€ for two it is rated 9.8.

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HaciBayram Hotel

Hacıbayram Hotel is in Sultanahmet and has roomy rooms that suit families. Guests say the team goes out of its way to help.

The restaurant menu is made with fresh ingredients, and the main landmarks are close. At 201€ for two it has a 9.9 rating, shared with Golden Horn Bosphorus Hotel, and costs 94€ less.

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DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul - Sirkeci

DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul - Sirkeci is a full-service hotel a few minutes’ walk from Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern and the Blue Mosque, next to Sirkeci Marmaray station. Guests get a warm cookie on arrival.

Rooms range from standard queen rooms to deluxe suites with balconies and Bosphorus views. There is a fitness center, a spa and a restaurant. At 182€ for two it is rated 9.5.

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Me by Mula

Me by Mula is in Sultanahmet, on Mustafa Paşa Sokak, a 5-minute walk from Sultanahmet Square and the Blue Mosque. Rooms combine natural materials with contemporary technology, and many have street or sea views.

Rooms range from compact Superior Rooms to Family Suites and the Hammam and Marmara Suites, which have sea views. Extras include Nespresso machines, climate control and in-room safes. At 160€ for two it is the cheapest of the comfort hotels here, rated 9.6.

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Standard Hotels

Hotel Ravi

Hotel Ravi is within walking distance of the Grand Bazaar, the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.

Rooms are simple, and the hotel has transport links nearby. Guests praise the staff. At 147€ for two it is the most expensive of the standard hotels here, rated 9.6.

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Icon Hotel Bomonti

Icon Hotel Bomonti is a 4-star hotel in Şişli, away from the old city. Rooms are soundproofed, with city views, Wi-Fi, minibars and work desks.

There is a bar, a lounge and an optional airport shuttle, and some rooms suit families. Guests praise the staff. At 146€ for two it is rated 9.5.

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Menar Hotel & Suites - Sultanahmet

Menar Hotel & Suites is in the Old City, a short walk from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. It has eight room types with Turkish-style decor, flat-screen TVs, air conditioning and laptop-size safes, and some rooms have private hammams, terraces, gardens or fully equipped kitchens.

Breakfast at Menar Lounge is a buffet with views of the Marmara Sea. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi and snacks, and a concierge who can help with car hire, tickets and tours. At 145€ for two it is rated 9.4, the lowest rating among the standard hotels here.

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Marlon Hotel

Marlon Hotel is in Taksim, in the entertainment district, close to shops and nightlife, with the main landmarks within reach.

Rooms and suites have plush bedding and city views, and some have spa baths. There is a spa and a breakfast, and reviews describe the staff as warm and attentive. At 143€ for two it is rated 9.8, the joint highest rating among the standard hotels here, with Bram Hotel.

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Bram Hotel Istanbul

Hotel Bram is near Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern and the Hippodrome. Rooms have free Wi-Fi, TVs, minibars and air conditioning, and there is a rooftop terrace and a coffee bar.

Rooms suit singles, couples, families and groups, and the staff help plan the day. At 123€ for two it is the cheapest of the standard hotels here, with a 9.8 rating.

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Budget Hotels

NarPera Taksim Boutique Hotel

NarPera Taksim Boutique Hotel is in Şişli. Rooms have air conditioning, Wi-Fi and coffee and tea facilities, and the hotel offers ironing, a microwave on request and an Istanbul Card option.

Guests praise the daily housekeeping and the front desk team. Breakfast is plentiful and some rooms have city views. At 81€ for two it is the most expensive of the budget hotels here, rated 9.6.

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Ramparts Hotel

Ramparts Hotel is in Fatih, close to an Armenian church and within walking distance of the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. The building has a traditional feel, and the rooms are modern and spacious. Breakfast is generous and local restaurants are nearby.

Guests praise the staff and the owner, mentioning early check-ins. At 70€ for two it is rated 9.5.

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Istanroom by Keo

Istanroom by Keo is in Şişli, a few minutes from Osmanbey metro station, shops, cafés and restaurants. Guests mention the cleanliness, the spacious layout, air conditioning and soundproofing. Rooms have free Wi-Fi, a work desk and a minibar.

Guests describe the staff as attentive and helpful with local tips. At 65€ for two it is rated 9.4, the lowest rating among the budget hotels here.

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Union Hotel Port

Union Hotel Port is in Fındıklı, in Beyoğlu, a short walk from Kabataş station, Dolmabahçe Palace and the ferries across the Bosphorus. It is on a quieter street.

Rooms are cozy and modern, with daily cleaning. Guests praise the staff, who give sightseeing tips. At 59€ for two it is the second cheapest of the budget hotels here, with a 9.7 rating.

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Feycem Suites Hotel

Feycem Suites Hotel is in the old streets of Fatih, close to Kumkapı station and a short walk from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Guests mention clean rooms, good showers, minibars and soundproofing.

Guests praise the host. At 54€ for two it is the cheapest hotel on this list, with a 9.7 rating.

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