Istanbul Hotels

Top reasons to visit Istanbul

• Historic Landmarks: Explore iconic sites such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque in the historic Sultanahmet district.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in vibrant neighbourhoods like Galata and Kadıköy, bustling with Turkish culture.
• Bosphorus Views: Enjoy stunning vistas along the Bosphorus, showcasing the city’s unique blend of east and west.
• Charming Princes' Islands: Take a short trip to the serene Princes' Islands for a peaceful retreat from city life.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of hotels and guesthouses that offer modern amenities and rich heritage.

Find great hotels in Istanbul

Discover an array of accommodation options in Istanbul, ranging from luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses. Whether you're seeking a business-friendly environment, a family getaway, or a relaxing spa retreat, the city offers something for everyone. Explore the best hotels in Istanbul, where modern amenities meet rich cultural heritage, ensuring a memorable stay in this vibrant metropolis.

• Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul: Nestled in the heart of Istanbul, Swissotel The Bosphorus offers a luxurious 5-star experience with a stunning view of the Bosphorus Strait. With a guest rating of 9.4, this hotel is ideal for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. It features a variety of child-friendly amenities, including a shared playground, children’s pool, and complimentary cribs. Guests can indulge in world-class dining options and unwind at the spa, making it a perfect retreat for those desiring a lavish escape.
• InterContinental Istanbul by IHG: The InterContinental Istanbul stands out with a guest rating of 9.2, catering to families, business travellers, and pet owners alike. This 5-star hotel offers an array of amenities, including onsite childcare services and pet-friendly policies. Enjoy a delightful breakfast while the kids are cared for, or take advantage of the hotel’s strategic location to explore the city. With elegant rooms and a focus on comfort, it provides a seamless blend of business and leisure, ensuring an enjoyable stay for all.
• Istanbul Golden City Hotel: A charming 4-star oasis, Istanbul Golden City Hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.4 and is perfectly suited for families and business travellers. This hotel features child safety amenities like window guards and first aid kits, ensuring a secure environment for little ones. Guests can savour a delicious breakfast while enjoying the panoramic views of the city. Its convenient location allows easy access to local attractions, making it a practical choice for those looking to explore Istanbul.

Where to stay in Istanbul

Istanbul offers a captivating blend of history and modernity, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Explore the enchanting streets of historic Sultanahmet, home to the majestic Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Delve into vibrant neighbourhoods like Galata and Kadıköy, where Turkish culture thrives amidst friendly locals. Just a short trip away, the charming Princes' Islands provide a tranquil retreat, perfect for families seeking a leisurely escape from the bustling city.

• Adalar: Adalar, a charming archipelago off the coast of Istanbul, offers a serene escape from the bustling city. The islands are known for their picturesque beaches and tranquil outdoor spaces, making it a popular destination, especially during the summer months from June to August. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls through the quaint shopping areas and indulge in local cuisine at various eateries. Key attractions include the scenic beaches and vibrant squares, perfect for relaxation and socialising. The moderate seasonal influx of tourists ensures a lively atmosphere without overwhelming crowds.
• Şile: Located along the Black Sea coast, Şile is a delightful city renowned for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. With peak visitor numbers during the summer, particularly from June to August, Şile attracts families seeking a beach getaway. The area boasts stunning lakes and sandy shores, providing ample opportunities for swimming and picnicking. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby ski fields during the winter months, adding to Şile's appeal as a year-round destination. Its family-friendly atmosphere and natural beauty make it a perfect spot for creating lasting memories.
• Tuzla: Tuzla is a vibrant city situated in the Istanbul area, known for its mix of family-friendly and business-oriented experiences. Unlike many other destinations, Tuzla sees a consistent flow of visitors throughout the year, with peaks in January, July, and September. The city features modern shopping centres and malls, catering to various tastes and preferences. Visitors can unwind at the local marina, enjoy the beach, or explore the charming neighbourhoods that Tuzla has to offer. This blend of urban and coastal experiences makes Tuzla an appealing destination for tourists and locals alike.

Things to do in Istanbul

Shopping

Discover Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, offering a vibrant atmosphere with countless shops selling textiles, spices, and jewellery. For a modern shopping experience, visit Istinye Park, an upscale mall featuring international brands and delightful dining options.

Recreation

Hammam de Luxe offers a traditional Turkish bath experience, featuring steam rooms, scrubs, and massages that rejuvenate body and mind. For a tranquil escape, the Spa at the Ritz-Carlton combines luxurious treatments with stunning Bosphorus views, creating an oasis of relaxation amidst the city's hustle and bustle.

Adventure

Istanbul Park offers an exhilarating motor racing experience, situated in the vibrant area of Istanbul. Feel the adrenaline rush as you watch high-speed races unfold in a setting filled with energy and excitement, making it an ideal venue for motorsport enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Nightlife

Istanbul's nightlife offers vibrant experiences, from a lively night at a rooftop bar in Beyoğlu with stunning views of the Bosphorus to the energetic atmosphere of a traditional meyhane in Kadıköy, where you can enjoy raki and meze among locals and fellow travellers alike.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Istanbul

Istanbul presents numerous ways for tourists to save money while exploring the city. Visitors can enjoy free attractions such as Taksim Square, the Blue Mosque, and the Bosphorus Bridge. Public transport options like the metro, tram, bus, and ferry are budget-friendly. For the best deals, consider visiting between January and March, when accommodation prices dip, especially on Saturdays. Use Expedia's search tool to find affordable hotels, and consider package deals to save on flights and activities. Opt for eco-certified hotels for sustainable choices that also fit your budget.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Istanbul are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Istanbul is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Istanbul is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel category—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you will be shown sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy savings by combining your Istanbul hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Istanbul

Istanbul offers a delightful blend of city and cultural experiences, making it perfect for various types of vacations. Visitors can explore stunning mosques, relax at beautiful beaches, and admire historic churches. Must-see attractions include the Bosphorus, iconic Ottoman buildings, and various tourist sites that showcase the rich culture and outdoor charm of the city. Whether you're seeking culture or leisure, Istanbul's diverse offerings are sure to enchant every traveller.

• Topkapi Palace: Step into the opulent world of the Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace, a stunning historic site that showcases exquisite architecture and rich cultural heritage. Explore its lavish courtyards, impressive collections of artefacts, and breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.
• Agva Beach: Relax at Agva Beach, a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. With its golden sands and tranquil waters, it offers a delightful spot for sunbathing and leisurely strolls along the picturesque coastline, perfect for unwinding.
• Prinkipo Greek Orphanage: Discover the haunting beauty of the Prinkipo Greek Orphanage, a historic building that stands as a testament to a bygone era. Nestled in a lush setting, its grand architecture and poignant history evoke a sense of reflection.

Best time to go to Istanbul

The best time to visit Istanbul is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Istanbul

Getting to Istanbul is convenient with its two major airports. Istanbul Airport (IST) is situated 33.8km from the city centre, with nearby hotel options including Fly And Stay Airport Hotel and Cois Inn Royal Hotel, both 8.0km away, offering 24-hour airport shuttle services. Ambassador Spa & Beauty Airport Lounge, only 322m from IST, provides quick access. Alternatively, Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) is located 30.6km away, with hotels like Holiday Inn Istanbul - Tuzla Bay just 6.4km from the airport, offering shuttle transfers. For those venturing to Bursa, Yenisehir Airport (YEI) lies 96.6km away, with Morrian Hotel 16.1km from there, providing airport transportation services.