Question 1

What is the best area to stay in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

For most travellers to Istanbul, the best areas to stay are Sultanahmet for its historical significance or Karaköy for its modern appeal and excellent transport links.

Sultanahmet is the historical heart of Istanbul and an ideal base for those keen to explore the city's iconic landmarks. Here, you'll find the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern all within easy walking distance. The area is largely pedestrian-friendly, with many hotels, restaurants, and shops suiting visitors. It's particularly well-suited for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts who want to be right in the middle of Istanbul's rich past.

Alternatively, Karaköy offers a more contemporary experience, blending historic architecture with a modern, design-focused vibe. Located on the northern side of the Golden Horn, it's a bustling port neighbourhood with trendy cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops. It's well-connected by tram and ferry, making it easy to reach other parts of the city.

Question 2

What are the best hotels in Istanbul that travellers recommend?

Accepted Answer

Two of the best hotels in Istanbul that receive consistently high recommendations from travellers are the Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul and The St. Regis Istanbul.

The Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul, with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers luxurious amenities including deep soaking bathtubs, designer toiletries, and bathrobes for ultimate comfort. Guests can enjoy dining at an alfresco restaurant with garden views, relax by the poolside bar, or take advantage of the 24-hour room service. The hotel also features a Turkish bath and on-site tennis courts. Its location is convenient for exploring nearby attractions like Taksim Gezi Park, which is just 0.9 km away.

Another highly recommended option is The St. Regis Istanbul, also rated 9.4. This hotel provides an opulent experience with premium bedding, designer toiletries, and the option of champagne service. Guests can indulge in the on-site art gallery, a Turkish bath, and private winery tours. The hotel is located in a shopping district, with Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre just 1.7 km away.

Both of these hotels are known for providing an excellent guest experience and are highly rated by past visitors.

Question 3

What are the best family hotels in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

For families travelling to Istanbul, the Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina Hotel and The St. Regis Istanbul are excellent, highly-rated options.

The Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina Hotel, with a 9.0 rating, offers a variety of family-friendly amenities including a children's pool, bathrobes and slippers for children, as well as highchairs and cribs. It is located near Moda Coastal Park and Moda Quay, providing nice areas for a family stroll. Guests frequently praise the friendly staff and the beautiful, clean rooms.

Another outstanding choice is The St. Regis Istanbul, a hotel with an impressive 9.4 rating. Families will appreciate the supervised childcare, a pool, and child-friendly window designs. The hotel also provides cribs, books, and toys for children. It is conveniently located near Taksim Gezi Park and KüçükÇiftlik Park, offering green spaces for recreation. Reviewers consistently mention the attentive and wonderful staff.

The Radisson Residences Vadistanbul, with a 9.2 rating, is another great option for families. This hotel provides a children's club, a playground, and a children's pool, along with toys and games. It is situated close to Vadistanbul AVM and Rams Park. Guests highlight the great amenities, location, and friendly staff.

For a well-located option in the historic area, consider the Gulhanepark Hotel & Spa, rated 7.6. This hotel offers highchairs, sofa beds, connecting rooms, and cribs. It's very close to the Istanbul Archaeology Museums and Gülhane Park, which are lovely for families to explore. The staff are noted for being friendly. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Istanbul

Question 4

What are the best rated hotels in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

For truly luxurious accommodation in Istanbul, consider the Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul, The St. Regis Istanbul, Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus, or Fairmont Quasar Istanbul.

The Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul, with an excellent 9.4 rating, offers a fantastic experience with amenities such as bathrobes, designer toiletries, and rooms featuring deep soaking bathtubs. Guests can enjoy river or sea views and dine at restaurants with garden views. The hotel also boasts a 24-hour room service, an on-site tennis court, a Turkish bath, and an art gallery. It is conveniently located near Taksim Gezi Park and KüçükÇiftlik Park.

Another outstanding option is The St. Regis Istanbul, also rated 9.4. This hotel provides a sophisticated stay with designer toiletries, premium bedding, and 24-hour room service. It features an on-site shopping mall, designer stores, a private winery with tasting rooms, and an art gallery. The property's Art Deco design is a top feature, and it is close to Taksim Republic Art Gallery and the French Cultural Centre.

The Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus, rated 9.2, is much-loved for its convenient location and excellent service. Guests can expect bathrobes, designer toiletries, and premium bedding. The hotel offers executive rooms with lounge access, 24-hour room service, and a Turkish bath. On-site tennis courts and sea view rooms are also available. It is particularly close to Yildiz Palace and Ortaköy Square.

Finally, the Fairmont Quasar Istanbul, with a 9.2 rating, provides a refined stay with amenities like bathrobes, designer toiletries, and premium bedding. The hotel features rainfall showerheads, a Turkish bath, and a poolside bar. Executive rooms with lounge access and suites are available, and guests can also enjoy 24-hour room service. It is located near Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre and Trump Towers Istanbul. Find more luxury hotels in Istanbul

Question 5

Are there any all-inclusive hotels in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are several all-inclusive hotels in Istanbul, including Axu Airport Hotel, Skymoon Airport Hotel, and Aram Edessa Hotel.

The Axu Airport Hotel, with an 8.6 rating, offers a comfortable all-inclusive stay with perks like a 24-hour airport shuttle and free self-parking. Guests appreciate the comfortable and clean rooms, as well as the great showers.

Another excellent choice is the Skymoon Airport Hotel, rated 8.2. This hotel also provides an all-inclusive stay and a convenient 24-hour airport shuttle. Guests often highlight the excellent and nice staff, along with the clean and big rooms, and good breakfast.

The Aram Edessa Hotel, with an 8.8 rating, also offers an all-inclusive stay and features free WiFi. It is conveniently located near points of interest such as the Avrasya Show and Art Centre and the Grand Bazaar. See more all-inclusive resorts in Istanbul

Question 6

What are the best spa hotels in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

For an exceptional spa experience in Istanbul, consider the Ciragan Palace Kempinski, Seven Hills Palace & Spa, Burdock Hotel Istanbul, Autograph Collection, or Antwell Suites.

The Ciragan Palace Kempinski, with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers a luxurious spa complete with facial treatments, a sauna, steam room, and a traditional Turkish bath. Guests frequently praise the exceptional service and friendly staff. It is conveniently located near Ortaköy Square and Yildiz Palace.

Another highly-rated option is the Seven Hills Palace & Spa, boasting a 9.6 rating. This hotel provides an extensive spa experience including aromatherapy, Thai massage, a steam room, and a hot tub. Guests consistently highlight the friendly and helpful staff, spacious and clean rooms, and a fantastic location near Cardakli Bath and the Tomb of Sultan Ahmet I.

The Burdock Hotel Istanbul, Autograph Collection, rated 9.2, features a full-service spa with couples treatment rooms, a Turkish bath, and a sauna. Travellers appreciate its good location near SALT Galata and Istanbul Archaeology Museums, as well as the helpful staff and excellent breakfast.

Finally, Antwell Suites, with a 9.2 rating, also offers a full-service spa. Amenities include aromatherapy treatments, a Turkish bath, and a sauna. Guests often comment on the spacious and clean rooms and friendly staff. This hotel is close to Emaar Square Mall and Camlica Tower. See all spa hotels in Istanbul

Question 7

Which beach resorts in Istanbul do travellers love?

Accepted Answer

The Mercia Hotels & Resorts is a beach resort in Istanbul that travellers frequently recommend for its convenient direct beach access.

This hotel, with a rating of 7.0, offers direct access to a private beach, making it ideal for those seeking a seaside escape. Guests benefit from complimentary WiFi, free buffet breakfast, and free self-parking. The hotel also provides free toiletries and free cribs, suiting families. It is conveniently located just 0.3 km from Kumburgaz Lunapark. See more stays near the beach in Istanbul

Question 8

What hotels in Istanbul offer free breakfast?

Accepted Answer

For hotels in Istanbul that offer complimentary breakfast, consider Gul Otel and By Historyal Hotel Due.

Gul Otel, with an 8.4 rating, provides free buffet breakfast and also offers a 24-hour airport shuttle service for added convenience. Guests frequently praise the amazing staff. It is well-situated, being just 0.4 km from St. Mary's Cathedral and 1.0 km from Kumkapi Fish Market.

By Historyal Hotel Due, rated 7.2, also includes free buffet breakfast and a 24-hour airport shuttle. This hotel provides free self-parking and is located 1.2 km from Yavuz Selim Mosque and 1.8 km from Basilica Cistern. Find more hotels with breakfast in Istanbul

Question 9

What are the top pet-friendly hotels in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

For top pet-friendly hotels in Istanbul, consider the No11 Hotel & Apartments, De Reve Galata, The Westin Istanbul Nisantasi, Antwell Suites, and Bird Nest Suite.

No11 Hotel & Apartments, with an 8.6 rating, welcomes both dogs and cats, providing food and water bowls, and even litter boxes. Pets stay free of charge. Some guests have particularly enjoyed the nice balconies. It is conveniently located near Illusion Museum, just 0.2 km away.

The De Reve Galata, boasting an impressive 9.6 rating, is highly recommended for pet owners. They permit both dogs and cats, offer pet grooming services, pet sitting services, and provide food and water bowls and litter boxes. Guests frequently praise the super comfortable and big rooms, the helpful staff, and the excellent location, with Istanbul Archaeology Museums just 1.4 km away. A nice breakfast and a great coffee shop are also on offer.

The Westin Istanbul Nisantasi, rated 9.4, is another excellent choice for those travelling with pets. They permit both dogs and cats and provide food and water bowls and litter boxes. Guests have remarked on the superb amenities. The hotel is situated close to Bomontiada, just 1.0 km away.

Antwell Suites, with a 9.2 rating, is a great option, permitting both dogs and cats. They provide a dog exercise area, food and water bowls, and litter boxes. Guests appreciate the spacious and clean rooms, as well as the friendly staff. Emaar Square Mall is a mere 0.4 km away.

Finally, the Bird Nest Suite, with a superb 10.0 rating, warmly welcomes pets, including dogs and cats, and pets stay free. They provide food and water bowls and litter boxes. Travellers have described the rooms as lovely. It is located near Bomontiada, just 1.0 km away. See more pet-friendly hotels in Istanbul

Question 10

What are the top boutique hotels in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

For top boutique hotels in Istanbul, consider The St. Regis Istanbul, Hilton Istanbul Maslak, Hilton Istanbul Bomonti Hotel & Conference Center, Arts Hotel Istanbul - Special Class, and Avantgarde Urban Levent.

The St. Regis Istanbul, with an excellent 9.4 rating, offers a full-service spa with a wide range of treatments including hot stone massage, deep tissue massage, and a Turkish bath. Guests consistently praise the attentive staff and comfortable rooms. It is conveniently located near Küçüçiftlik Park and the Taksim Republic Art Gallery.

The Hilton Istanbul Maslak, rated 9.0, features art deco property design, suites, and premium bedding. Guests frequently highlight the clean rooms and professional staff, as well as a good breakfast. It is close to Istinye Park and Maslak Pavilion.

Another excellent option is the Hilton Istanbul Bomonti Hotel & Conference Center, also rated 9.0. This hotel offers spacious and clean rooms, with excellent facilities and amenities. It is situated near Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre and Trump Towers Istanbul.

The Arts Hotel Istanbul - Special Class, with a 7.8 rating, provides a 24-hour restaurant, a Turkish bath, and rooms with Egyptian cotton sheets and rainfall showerheads. Its location is good, and guests find the rooms beautiful and the staff friendly. It is close to Taksim Republic Art Gallery and the French Cultural Centre.

Finally, the Avantgarde Urban Levent, rated 8.6, is located in a shopping district and offers suites, a poolside bar, and a Turkish bath. Guests appreciate the great staff. This hotel is conveniently located near Kanyon Mall and Zorlu Centre. See all boutique hotels in Istanbul

Question 11

What are the best budget hotels in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in Istanbul, consider the Sidonya Hotel, Hotel Gritti Pera, Grand Hotel Avcilar, and Green Roof Boutique Hotel & Spa.

The Sidonya Hotel, with a rating of 8.0, offers a buffet breakfast and free WiFi. Guests frequently praise its delicious breakfast and excellent location, being just 600 metres from Kadikoy Fish Market and 1.7 km from Moda Coastal Park. An airport shuttle is also available 24 hours a day.

The Hotel Gritti Pera, rated 7.8, provides a complimentary buffet breakfast and free WiFi. It is conveniently located near points of interest such as Taksim Mosque, which is 1.3 km away, and Atatürk Library, 1.7 km distant. The hotel also offers a 24-hour airport shuttle service.

Another good option is the Grand Hotel Avcilar, which has a 7.8 rating. This hotel provides a free buffet breakfast, free WiFi, and self-parking. It is situated 400 metres from Avcılar Beach Park and offers a complimentary grocery shopping service, along with a 24-hour airport shuttle.

The Green Roof Boutique Hotel & Spa, with a rating of 8.6, offers a complimentary local breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking for extended durations. A 24-hour airport shuttle is also provided for guest convenience. View all budget hotels in Istanbul

Question 12

What are the most romantic hotels in Istanbul for couples?

Accepted Answer

For a romantic stay in Istanbul, consider the Vatan Asur Otel.

This hotel, rated 7.4, provides a wonderful setting for couples with its indoor pool, private indoor hot tub, and a full-service spa offering massages, a steam room, and a Turkish bath. It even has dedicated couples' treatment rooms, great for a shared relaxation experience. Many rooms also feature sea views and balconies. See all romantic hotels in Istanbul

Question 13

What are the best hotels in Istanbul near Bosphorus?

Accepted Answer

For hotels in Istanbul near the Bosphorus that are highly recommended, consider the Golden Horn Bosphorus Hotel, White House Hotel Istanbul, or the AJWA Sultanahmet.

The Golden Horn Bosphorus Hotel has an outstanding 10.0 rating. Guests consistently praise its beautiful and clean rooms, as well as the incredibly friendly and helpful staff. Its location is often described as excellent, and the service is incredible. The hotel offers amenities like a free crib and an airport shuttle available 24 hours a day, which is useful for families. It is conveniently located near the Istanbul Archaeology Museums and Gülhane Park.

Another excellent option is the White House Hotel Istanbul, rated 9.8. This hotel is commended for its excellent location, extremely helpful staff, and great breakfast. The rooms are clean, and the service is amazing. Amenities include free cribs, child-friendly window designs, free toiletries, and free WiFi. It is close to the Istanbul Archaeology Museums and Arasta Bazaar.

The AJWA Sultanahmet, with a 9.8 rating, is another top choice. This hotel is known for its friendly and helpful staff, nice and clean rooms, and excellent service. The location is also highly rated. Guests particularly enjoy the amazing breakfast. It offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a children's pool, free cribs, 24-hour airport shuttle service, bathrobes, 24-hour room service, a Turkish bath, designer toiletries, and sea view rooms. It is within easy reach of the Istanbul Archaeology Museums and Gülhane Park.

Question 14

What hotels are near Istanbul (SAW-Sabiha Gokcen Intl.)?

Accepted Answer

For hotels near Istanbul (SAW-Sabiha Gokcen Intl.), consider the Elite World Grand Istanbul Kucukyali or the Dedeman Bostancı.

The Elite World Grand Istanbul Kucukyali, with a 9.2 rating, is a convenient option located approximately 17.5 km from the airport. This hotel is family-friendly, offering amenities such as free cribs, a children's pool, and child-friendly window designs. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, excellent service, and amazing breakfast. An airport shuttle is available 24 hours, and self-parking is free.

Another great choice is the Dedeman Bostancı, rated 8.2, which is about 18.3 km from the airport. This hotel also caters to families, providing free breakfast for children, free cribs, and child-friendly window designs. Guests have complimented the clean and amazing rooms, good gym, and wonderful staff.

Question 15

Where can I find the best nightlife in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

Istanbul offers several distinct areas for evening entertainment, suiting different preferences.

Beyoğlu is widely considered the centre of Istanbul's nightlife. İstiklal Avenue, a long pedestrian street, is lined with bars, pubs, and clubs, with many smaller streets branching off it also hosting numerous establishments. You'll find everything from traditional meyhanes (taverns serving meze and raki) to modern cocktail bars and dance clubs here. The area around Nevizade Street, just off İstiklal, is particularly known for its bustling meyhanes and live music venues.

Karaköy has transformed into a popular spot for evening gatherings. Located along the Bosphorus, it features many cafes and restaurants that convert into bars in the evening. There's a good selection of places offering craft cocktails and more relaxed settings, often with views of the historic peninsula. It's generally more sophisticated than Beyoğlu's main thoroughfare.

Kadıköy, on the Asian side of Istanbul, offers a lively alternative. Its main street, Bağdat Avenue, has a number of bars and clubs, but the real concentration of nightlife is around the "Barlar Sokağı" (Bars Street) area. Here, you'll find a younger crowd enjoying pubs, live music venues, and cafes with outdoor seating. It's known for its more laid-back and local atmosphere compared to the European side.

Beşiktaş, particularly around the Çarşı (market) area, has a number of popular pubs and bars. It's a lively student district, so you'll find many affordable and casual places to have a drink.

Question 16

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to ‘My Trips’ and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by ‘Fully refundable property’ for hotels in Istanbul.

Question 17

How can I save on a hotel booking in Istanbul with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

One Key™—Expedia’s free travel rewards programme—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Istanbul hotels. Plus, you’ll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Question 18

How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

Prices for hotels in Istanbul often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$45 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by ‘Price: low to high’ for our cheapest rates.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
April	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	77.4°F (25.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	72.3°F (22.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
November	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

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Our top choices for Istanbul hotels

1. Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul

2. Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class

3. The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul

4. Hilton Istanbul Bomonti Hotel & Conference Center

5. Çırağan Hotel Bosphorus

6. The Marmara Taksim

7. Seven Hills Palace & Spa

8. Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina Hotel

9. The Marmara Pera

10. Pera Palace Hotel

11. Carina Gold Hotel and Restaurant

12. CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul

13. Titanic City Taksim

14. Divan Istanbul

15. Ciragan Palace Kempinski

16. The Peninsula Istanbul

17. Elite World Istanbul Taksim

18. Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul

19. Doubletree by Hilton Istanbul Moda

20. Ottoman's Life Hotel Deluxe

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