5 Areas to Stay in Istanbul (and Where to Avoid)

Updated: 6 November, 2024

Istanbul is a bustling city with countless beautiful places to explore. The advantage is that most tourist spots are concentrated within a relatively small area.

In this article, I'll share with you the top areas to stay in Istanbul if it's your first visit, taking into account accessibility to major attractions, safety, and a range of accommodation options.

I'll also highlight a neighborhood you should avoid, which is important to note as it's very near one of the city's most famous central areas.

Additionally, I'll recommend several hotels in each neighborhood, and I'll wrap up with a map marking each highlighted area.

Best Areas to Stay in Istanbul

1. Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet is the ideal area to stay in Istanbul if it's your first visit to the city. It's the historical heart and home to the main attractions, all within walking distance.

Here in Sultanahmet, you'll discover the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace, surrounded by the city's bustling bazaars.

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Despite its central position, there's a diverse range of accommodation options to fit any budget, from economical choices to luxurious boutique hotels.

Below are the top hotels in Sultanahmet catering to various budgets, ranked from highest to lowest:

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2. Taksim

If you're looking for the modern heart of Istanbul, Taksim is the place to be. It's famous for its lively atmosphere, shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

Despite its modern vibe, Taksim maintains its authenticity and charm with historic buildings, galleries, and the iconic İstiklal pedestrian street, a major shopping destination where the historic tram runs.

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One major perk of staying in Taksim is its excellent metro connection to the airport.

Additionally, you'll find a wide range of accommodation options here, from sleek hotels to apartments and backpacker hostels.

Here are some of the top hotels in Taksim:

3. Galata

Galata is a charming and stylish neighborhood known for its bohemian vibe. This area is famous for its historic tower and picturesque cobblestone streets.

It's quieter compared to Sultanahmet and Taksim, yet it boasts a variety of restaurants, shops, and art galleries.

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You'll find a range of accommodation options here, from boutique hotels to apartments with stunning panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the city.

Here are the top hotels in Galata:

  • Ecole St. Pierre Hotel: A luxurious hotel located near Galata Tower, known for its exceptional service.
  • The Bank Hotel: A stylish design hotel offering excellent location and unbeatable views.
  • Union Hotel: An outstanding choice with a prime location and the best value for your money.

4. Sirkeci

Sirkeci is one of my favorite neighborhoods in Istanbul because of its strategic location with easy access to various public transportation options such as trams, trains, and ferries.

Moreover, it's close to the New Mosque, Spice Bazaar, Galata Bridge, and within walking distance of Sultanahmet. The area also offers a wide selection of restaurants, bars, and nightlife venues.

Keep in mind that Sirkeci is a commercial area, so it can be lively during the day.

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It's important to note that the section of Sirkeci between the train station and the Bosphorus can be unsafe at night. However, there isn't much to see or do there; the rest of the neighborhood is safe. During my last solo trip to Istanbul, I stayed in Sirkeci and everything went smoothly.

Here are some of the best hotels in Sirkeci:

5. Karaköy

Karaköy is a vibrant and thriving neighborhood known for its chic cafes, restaurants, and designer boutiques, offering a contemporary and modern experience in Istanbul.

If you're seeking a lively nightlife scene, this is the ideal area to stay in Istanbul.

Located next to the Bosphorus, the neighborhood offers stunning views of the Galata Bridge and the historic city.

Moreover, Karaköy is well-connected by tram to the Sultanahmet area and the ferry port.

These are the best hotels in Karakoy:

  • Hotel De Reve Galata: A modern luxury hotel in a prime location with a terrace boasting fabulous views.
  • Mas Suites Karaköy: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and an excellent location.
  • Casa Rosa Suites: Rooms equipped with soundproofing and decorated in a modern and playful style.

❌ Istanbul Neighborhood to Avoid

In general, Istanbul is a safe city; you just need to be mindful of pickpockets as you would in any large city.

However, there's one neighborhood in Istanbul known for its danger, and that's Tarlabasi.

While there have been some changes in recent years, it's advisable to avoid staying or visiting the area, especially at night. Tarlabasi is a very impoverished neighborhood with a high crime rate and an overall unsafe atmosphere.

Interestingly, Tarlabasi is only a few streets away from Taksim and the popular İstiklal Avenue. However, this neighborhood lacks any tourist attractions.

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Map of Istanbul Neighborhoods

Final Thoughts

These are the best areas to stay in Istanbul, each with its own unique characteristics. Surely, one of them will fit your preferences and the type of experience you're looking for.

The great thing is that all of them are conveniently located for exploring the city easily, and they offer accommodations to suit every budget.

If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I'll help you as much as I can. If you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip! 😘

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