Where to stay in Istanbul – best hotel location in Istanbul
Are you wondering where to stay in Istanbul? Picking the right location can be challenging. In this video, I will guide you to the best area to stay in Istanbul, so you can fully enjoy your time in this incredible city.
All information in this article and more is also included in my YouTube video:
Best area to stay in Istanbul: Karaköy
In my opinion, for tourists, Karaköy is the best area to stay in Istanbul.
I will explain why by focusing on three categories:
1. Location
2. Public transportation
3. Offerings of Karaköy itself
Then I will showcase available hotel options and their price ranges. Karaköy offers:
4. Affordable boutique hotels
5. Mid-range hotels
6. Luxury hotels
1) Location
Lets start with location. On this map, you can see the main touristic sights in Istanbul.
Karaköy is perfectly located in the middle between the historical peninsula and Beyoğlu.
2) Public transportation
Historical sights in Fatih are easily accessible via tram.
Galata Tower and Istiklal street are connected by two funicular lines, so you don’t have to walk uphill. From there, you can catch the M2 metro line and connect further to the Istanbul Airport metro.
In addition, Karaköy has a major ferry port. There are very frequent ferry connections to Kadıköy and Üsküdar.
3) Offerings of Karaköy itself
Now, let’s focus on what Karaköy itself has to offer. Karaköy is a vibrant area with two lively spots, namely Galataport and Mumhane street.
- Galataport is a cruise ship terminal with an amazing promenade and great restaurants and cafes. It is just a few minutes’ walk from Karaköy. It is perfect for relaxing, especially in the evenings.
- Then, Mumhane street is bustling with restaurants and cafés. These are mostly frequented by tourists. It is another great place to enjoy the lively atmosphere of Karaköy.
4) Affordable boutique hotels
Let us now have a closer look at hotel options and their prices in Karaköy. Lets start with boutique hotels.
In the inner parts of Karaköy, you’ll find many hotels of this kind. They typically have smaller rooms.
For example, if you’re looking for a double bed room in autumn, prices start at 60 Euros per night.
(all prices as of August 2024)
5) Midsized hotels
Next, are midsized hotels in Karaköy.
These hotels are mostly located along Kemeraltı street.
Many of them have been opened or renovated in recent years.
Prices for a double bed room start at 150 Euros per night.
6) Luxury hotels
If you are looking for luxury hotels in Istanbul, Karaköy has several luxury hotels with stunning Bosphorus views.
These are mostly located along Kemankeş street.
One standout is the Peninsula Istanbul. The Peninsula Istanbul is one of the most luxurious hotels in Istanbul. Prices for a deluxe room start at 600 Euros per night. And Bosphorus view rooms start at 800 Euros per night.
Another example is the JW Marriott Istanbul Bosphorus. Deluxe rooms start here at 300 Euros and Bosphorus view rooms at 500 Euros per night.
You can explore other articles about Istanbul by clicking on one of the following categories: