A weekend in Istanbul sounds lovely, but where should you stay? Whether travelling solo, on a romantic getaway or a weekend with friends, staying somewhere you can easily explore the city is essential. So here’s your guide for 2024 on where to stay in Istanbul.
Discover where to stay in Istanbul for the perfect weekend getaway.
Istanbul is vast, but two areas are especially well-suited for first-time visitors. The city’s most famous sites are in Sultanahmet, the historic peninsula. Beyoğlu is a quick tram ride away from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and other wonders. Plus, you’ll be staying in an area with interesting architecture and an abundance of cafes, restaurants, and shopping.
I only recommend places where I’ve stayed, some more than once! But each place listed below has its own unique charm and is well located, so you can easily discover this remarkable city.
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Beyoglu Hotels
Pera Palace Hotel
Okay, I’m going to be honest; this place is a splurge. But if there’s one place in all of Istanbul that’s worth a little extra, it’s at the Pera Palace Hotel.
The hotel’s Orient Bar was the first place I visited in Istanbul. Sitting in one of its plush red velvet chairs with a glass of wine washed away all of my jet lag.
Enjoying a cocktail in this elegant bar, which was once a hotspot for spies (Mata Hari), writers (Agatha Christie and Ernest Hemingway), and royalty, is something to add to your Istanbul bucket list.
You could easily spend your entire vacation at the Pera Palace. Have your morning coffee at the Patisserie de Pera, a pink jewel of a cafe just off the main lobby. Or enjoy afternoon tea in the Kubbeli Lounge with its spectacular glass-domed ceiling.
I loved exploring the historic trinkets and mementos showcased in the hotel’s glass and wood display tables.
But what about the room?
Well, let me tell you, room 411 was Agatha Christie’s favourite room, and it did not disappoint. The bed was comfy. There was a desk with an old-fashioned typewriter and a small balcony with a view. And after a long day of sightseeing, I retreated to the bathroom with it’s deep soaker tub and thick terrycloth robes.
The highlight, however, was the tasteful Agatha Christie memorabilia and knowing that this was where she wrote “Murder on the Orient Express.”
Pera Neuf
If the Pera Palace is too ritzy for your tastes, consider the Pera Neuf if you are trying to figure out where to stay in Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district. This place is tiny (only seven rooms) and doesn’t have a reception. But it is steps away from the metro (Şişhane), Istanbul’s pedestrian shopping street (İstiklal Caddesi;) and the Galata Tower.
The rooms have a warm, almost Parisian vibe. And I loved having a kitchenette, even though many great restaurants and cafes are nearby. I stayed at the Pera Neuf as a solo traveller and felt safe in this area, even walking around at night. The only downside is no elevator, so don’t bring a big suitcase.
Sultanahmet Hotels
Hotel Sultania
Hotel Sultania is conveniently located in the heart of Sultanahmet. The T1 tram, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque are all less than a 10-minute walk away.
The rooms are beautiful, each named after a famous Ottoman Sultan’s wife. The decor will make you feel like a guest at Topkapi Palace; some rooms even have their own hammam.
And you can’t beat the location. Highly recommend taking a short walk at night to see the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque lit up. It’s breathtaking
Then head up to their rooftop restaurant, Olive Anatolian, for great Turkish food and amazing views. And their Turkish breakfast is vast and absolutely wonderful!
Celine Hotel – Ottoman Mansion
The Celine Hotel is less than a 10-minute walk from the Hagia Sophia (the Blue Mosque is even closer).
It is decorated with late Ottoman decor but with modern touches to make you feel completely at home. The stand out is the staff; they are uber helpful and want to ensure that you have a wonderful time in the city.
The bonus is DaRoute Coffee, located on the bottom floor. Relax in the stone-walled cafe with a wide array of hot beverages and desserts. The perfect place to recuperate and indulge after a day of touring.
Albinas Hotel Old City
To be transparent, this is the one hotel that I did not actually stay at while in Istanbul. But to make my “Where to Stay in Istanbul” list complete, I wanted to add a suggestion from my brother. Both he and his wife, who have very good taste, raved about the Albinas Hotel Old City. They loved their Turkish breakfast and the fantastic views of the Blue Mosque from the rooftop.
If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul and want to find some great cafes while in the city, check out this post, “Seven Amazing Cafes to Visit in Istanbul.”
