Straddling two continents, this vibrant metropolis captivates visitors with its blend of Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, bustling bazaars, stunning waterfront views, and world-renowned cuisine. We’ve handpicked the best hotels in Istanbul based on expert recommendations and thousands of genuine guest reviews. All of our recommended hotels have a review rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars.
Best cheap hotel in Istanbul: Hotel Orkide
Best boutique hotel in Istanbul: Ibrahim Pasha Hotel
Best luxury hotel in Istanbul: Raffles Istanbul
Best hostel in Istanbul: Hostel Cheers
Best eco-friendly hotel in Istanbul: The Westist
Sort list by price, rating or by value for money.
The Four Seasons Hotel at Sultanahmet is a masterclass in transformation. Housed in a stunning, century-old neoclassical building that was originally the Ottoman Empire’s first prison, it now serves as a luxurious boutique sanctuary. Even its former exercise yard has been reimagined into a peaceful, manicured courtyard, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling city.
Fodors + 4 more“What a rehabilitation success story: a former prison just steps from Topkapı Palace and Aya Sofya is now one of Istanbul’s premier accommodations, where rooms and suites are luxuriously outfitted and overlook the Sea of Marmara, the Old City, or a manicured interior courtyard.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Istanbul.
The Vakko Hotel Sumahan Bosphorus is a breathtaking sanctuary set within a restored 19th-century Ottoman distillery in Istanbul’s peaceful Çengelköy neighbourhood. By blending the building's industrial heritage with the refined, high-fashion aesthetic of the iconic Turkish brand Vakko, the property offers a unique and intimate getaway on the Asian side of the city.
New York Times + 3 more“Sumahan on the Water, a 24-room low-rise hotel in a former Ottoman raki distillery, now with its own marble hammam. A boat fetches guests on the European side and speeds them across the Bosporus. A buffet breakfast is served along the shore.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Istanbul.
Hotel Ibrahim Pasha is a sophisticated boutique retreat nestled in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district. The building itself is a clever merger of two turn-of-the-20th-century Ottoman homes, thoughtfully converted into a 24-room sanctuary. Its name pays homage to the adjacent 16th-century palace built by Ibrahim Pasha, who served as the Grand Vizier and childhood friend to Suleyman the Magnificent.
Lonely Planet + 3 more“Cultural tomes are piled in reception and throughout the 24 rooms of this exemplary design hotel, which also has a comfortable lounge with open fire, and a terrace bar with knockout views of the nearby Blue Mosque.”
The Peninsula Istanbul is a striking waterfront retreat located in the historic Karaköy district. Opened in 2023, the property masterfully blends four distinct buildings, three of which are protected landmarks, including the iconic 1937 cruise passenger terminal. Designed by Turkish architect Zeynep Fadillioglu, the interiors pay homage to Bauhaus and Ottoman influences, featuring exquisite details like gold tiles, hand-carved marble, and high ceilings.
New York Times + 2 more“The Peninsula Istanbul, a five-star hotel that opened two years ago in what was once a ferry terminal, sits on the waterfront in the trendy Karakoy neighborhood across from the historic center. Behind the hotel, a 25-meter heated outdoor pool offers sweeping views of the city, and a dock serves as a water taxi stop. In the basement, the hotel has a hamam and an indoor pool, and upstairs, the Michelin-starred chef Fatih Tutak offers cuisine that draws on inspiration from places on the former Silk Road at Gallada.”
The Bank Hotel Istanbul is a stunning example of late 19th-century Neo-Renaissance architecture. Situated in the heart of Karaköy, the building once served as the headquarters for the Ottoman Bank, which explains its grand, imposing proportions and ornate detailing. It was originally designed by the renowned French-Levantine architect Alexandre Vallaury, who was responsible for several of the city's most iconic historic structures.
New York Times + 2 more“Away from the overcrowded tourist zones near Taksim Square and Istiklal Caddesi, this hotel is a solid choice (but by no means a bargain) for those seeking a quiet but central location and abundant amenities.”
The Pera Palace Hotel, opened in 1895, is a legendary landmark in Istanbul's Beyoğlu district. Designed by French-Ottoman architect Alexandre Vallaury, it was built specifically to host high-society passengers arriving on the famous Orient Express. It famously holds the title of Turkey’s oldest European-style hotel and was the first building in the city to have electricity and a sophisticated electric elevator.
Frommers + 2 more“The Pera Palace speaks of the fin de siècle era when well-to-do Europeans “took the air” on the leafy Grand Rue de Pera (now the heaving Istiklal Caddesi). Stepping through the doors feels like stepping straight back in time to an altogether more glamorous era.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in Istanbul.
Hotel Empress Zoe is a hidden gem tucked away in the historic Sultanahmet district of Istanbul. Named after the 11th-century Byzantine Empress—whose famous likeness graces a mosaic inside the nearby Hagia Sophia—the hotel consists of several linked townhouses. These buildings wrap around a lush, tranquil garden that features remnants of an abandoned Ottoman bathhouse, which itself rests upon ancient Byzantine foundations.
Lonely Planet + 1 more“Named after the feisty Byzantine empress, this is one of İstanbul’s most impressive boutique hotels. The enticing garden suites overlook a 15th-century hamam and the gorgeous flower-filled courtyard where breakfast is served in warm weather.”
The Orientbank Hotel is a stunning piece of history located in the heart of Istanbul’s old city. Originally built in 1912 to serve as the headquarters for the Deutsche Orientbank, the building was designed by the renowned Prussian architect August Jasmund. Today, it stands as a beautifully preserved landmark, complete with its original copper terrace dome, lead-grey roof, and a magnificent hand-carved marble spiral staircase that makes for an unforgettable entrance.
New York Times“Orientbank Hotel Istanbul, a short walk from the city’s UNESCO-listed attractions such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, is a boutique hotel that used to be a bank. In the basement, a jazz bar occupies the former vault. Upstairs, a circular lounge offers views of the bustling Egyptian Bazaar and the striking Suleymaniye Mosque. A box of Turkish sweet treats and a customized bond certificate from the building’s former life greet each guest on arrival.”
Soho House Istanbul is a stunning retreat set within the historic Palazzo Corpi, a 19th-century neoclassical building designed by Italian architect Giacomo Leoni. Originally commissioned by a wealthy Genoese merchant, the site later became the first U.S. diplomatic mission in the city, serving as the American embassy and consulate for over a century before Soho House transformed it into a private members' club and hotel in 2015.
CN Traveler“The building—an ornate 19th-century palazzo, all marble and frescoes—is pretty head-turning, and bedrooms occupy a glass annex, tricked out in the brand’s instantly identifiable style with a Turkish twist.”
Featured in CN Traveler’s 2020 Gold List.
Casa Di Bava, located in the historic heart of Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district, offers a unique blend of heritage and modern comfort. Housed in a beautifully preserved 120-year-old building, the property perfectly captures the character of the bohemian Çukurcuma neighbourhood, an area famous for its antique shops, art galleries, and eclectic cafes.
Lonely Planet“The two-bedroom penthouse apartment at this suite hotel is an absolute knockout, and the 11 one-bedroom apartments in the 1880s building are impressive, too. All are stylishly decorated and well appointed.”
The DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul - Moda is a striking landmark on the Asian side of the city, designed by the UK-based architecture firm Atkins Global. Located right on the coastline of the vibrant Kadıköy district, the hotel is housed in a modern tower that offers sweeping views across the Marmara Sea, making it a standout feature of the local skyline.
New York Times“The glass tower DoubleTree by Hilton — Moda offers spacious rooms, a spa and a rooftop swimming pool with views of the Marmara Sea.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Istanbul.
Louis Appartements Galata is a stylish boutique property nestled in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Galata district. Housed in a meticulously renovated 1933 building, it beautifully balances the city's rich architectural heritage with modern, clean-lined interior design. The public areas offer a unique aesthetic, featuring exposed vaulted brick ceilings paired with decorative tiles and mid-century modern furnishings.
Lonely Planet“The tower suite at this meticulously maintained and keenly priced hotel near the Galata Tower is the knockout option among the 12 suites and rooms on offer.”
Recommended by:
Fodors, Frommers, CNN, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, Fodors, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Fodors, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, The Times, CN Traveler
Recommended by:
New York Times, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Frommers, Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times
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CN Traveler
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
New York Times
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Lonely Planet
Istanbul is one of the largest cities in Turkey that lies within Asia and Europe across the Bosphorus Strait.
Some of the major neighborhoods in Istanbul are:
Arnavutköy
Arnavutköy is an upmarket neighborhood situated by the Bosphorus renowned for its fish restaurants and Ottoman waterfront mansions. It also has a wide range of cocktail and gastro bars, beautiful houses, and many other interesting places.
Balat
Balat is previously Armenian and Greek Orthodox neighborhood of the city with full of colorful churches and old houses. The neighborhood is replete with vintage shops, art galleries, ceramic ateliers, micro coffee shops, and historic streets. It has also several landmarks such as the seat of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople and the Church of St. George.
Çukurcuma
Çukurcuma is an neighborhood in the city that is famed for some of the best antique dealers in Istanbul. Some best antique dealers include Aslı Günşiray, Modern Tarih, and A La Turca. The neighborhood is also renowned for the Museum of Innocence that is a literary museum established by Turkish writer Orhan Pamuk, inspired by his novel of the same name.
Galata
Galata is a neighborhood that is a part of Beyoğlu district. It is the home to the famous Galata Tower that overlooks the neoclassical buildings and old cobblestoned streets. The neighborhood has a popular café Mavra that is the favorite haunt of locals and visitors.
Karaköy
Karaköy is a neighborhood that is situated right by the waterside and previously was a major port in the city. It is now filled with trendy boutiques, restaurants and cafes that draw many wandering tourists and locals to these places.
See also our article about the best areas to stay in Istanbul.
If you're looking for a cheap hotel in Istanbul, then book Hotel Orkide. It's an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It's in a good location, it's been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Also check out our list of the best cheap hotels in Istanbul.
You like some luxury but don't like the famous chain hotels. If you're looking for the best boutique hotel in Istanbul, you should check out Ibrahim Pasha Hotel. It's a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts.
Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Istanbul, it's a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels in the city.
If money isn't a problem and you're looking for a luxury hotel in Istanbul, then go for Raffles Istanbul. The hotel offers excellent service, it's in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. Also check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Istanbul, it's a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
If you're looking for a great hostel in Istanbul, then you should check out Hostel Cheers. The hostel has magnificent reviews by backpackers, it has been recommended by well-known travel experts and it's in a good location. Also check out our list of the best hostels in Istanbul.
If you're looking for a room with a view, then try the Sumahan on the Water Hotel. It offers amazing views of Istanbul according to recent customer reviews.
For a 3-star hotel you have to pay around $60 per night and for a 4-star hotel you would be looking at $100 per night. If you're after a luxury 5-star Istanbul hotel then you can expect to pay around $170 per night.
Try Hotel Empress Zoe if you're looking for a delicious breakfast at a hotel in Istanbul. The hotel has excellent customer review ratings for breakfast.
Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on a Luxurious Yacht. Witness the enchantment of Istanbul with a 2.5-hour sunset cruise along the beautiful Bosphorus. Aboard the glass-encased luxury yacht, enjoy the city’s main attractions at dusk including the Dolmabahce Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, and Rumeli Fortress. Price: $60.
Full Day: Classic Istanbul Tour Including Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. Experience Istanbul’s timeless sights on a full-day tour of the city’s stunning historic places. Listen for the ancient echoes of pounding hooves and charioteers at Hippodrome Square and spot the distinctive tiles of the Blue Mosque. Price: $65.
Hagia Sophia: Entry with Guided Tour. Skip the line and enter the magnificent Hagia Sophia, which is the world’s largest place of worship, built by Emperor Justinian in 532 AD. Enjoy a guided tour inside and see the tallest dome of the largest Christian church in the world. Price: $16.
More things to do in Istanbul
Istanbul, a breathtaking metropolis straddling the divide between Europe and Asia, serves as a living chronicle of human ambition and imperial grandeur. Its history is an intricate tapestry woven over millennia, beginning as the ancient Greek city of Byzantium before being reinvented as Constantinople, the majestic “New Rome” and capital of the Roman and Byzantine Empires. For centuries, it acted as the beating heart of Christendom, a city of impenetrable walls and unparalleled influence. In 1453, the Ottoman conquest transformed the skyline with soaring minarets and expansive palaces, establishing it as the seat of a vast Islamic caliphate that bridged the Middle East and the West.
Today, Istanbul stands as a dynamic cultural nexus where the echoes of ancient empires harmonize with the frenetic pulse of a modern, twenty-first-century megalopolis. It is a city of synthesis, representing the unique Turkish identity that seamlessly blends Eastern tradition with Western aspiration. While it no longer serves as the political capital, it remains the undisputed center of commerce, finance, and artistic expression in Türkiye. Its streets are a vivid demonstration of coexistence, where contemporary skyscrapers loom over archaeological remnants, and the daily commute often involves crossing the Bosphorus, physically traversing the tectonic divide between two continents.
Beneath the well-trodden tourist paths, the city hides curious secrets that speak to its layered past. For instance, few visitors realize that the legendary Bosphorus has frozen solid in the past, allowing people to literally walk between continents across the ice. Furthermore, the city’s Tünel, constructed in 1875, holds the title of the second-oldest underground metro system in the world, a pioneer of subterranean transit. Even its feline residents are legendary; as the self-appointed “City of Cats,” the thousands of felines roaming the streets are considered communal citizens rather than strays, famously cared for by a population that cherishes them as guardians of the city’s long, storied spirit.
We recommend that you read our guide about where to stay in Istanbul. It gives you an excellent overview of the most popular areas, highlighting each area’s main attractions and hotel recommendations.
If you like our list of hotels, hostels and B&Bs in Istanbul, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Dubrovnik or the best hotels in Athens.