Istanbul Hotels

Istanbul: A Tapestry of Timeless Wonders and Cultural Marvels

Embark on an enchanting journey to Istanbul, where East meets West in a tapestry of rich history and vibrant culture. Wander through the majestic Hagia Sophia, and soak in the splendour of the Blue Mosque, while the bustling Grand Bazaar entices with its myriad of treasures. Sail along the Bosphorus, where stunning views of palaces and fortresses line the shores. Explore the charming streets of Old Istanbul, where every corner tells a story. With its delectable cuisine and warm hospitality, Istanbul promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller, from romantic escapades to cultural discoveries.

Top locations to stay in Istanbul

When visiting Istanbul, staying in Fatih, Eminönü, and Moda offers a rich experience of the city. Fatih is renowned for its historical landmarks, including stunning cathedrals and mosques. Eminönü boasts vibrant markets and historical sites, perfect for immersing in local culture. Moda presents a trendy urban atmosphere with theatres and cafes. For first-time visitors, Eminönü is ideal due to its proximity to major attractions.

1. FatihOpens in a new window: Staying in Fatih immerses you in Istanbul's rich history and culture. This area is home to stunning landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, making it perfect for those keen to explore iconic sites. You'll find a variety of traditional markets and bazaars, ideal for experiencing the local flavour and picking up unique souvenirs. With its charming streets and vibrant atmosphere, Fatih offers a blend of historical charm and modern conveniences, ensuring an unforgettable stay.
2. EminönüOpens in a new window: Eminönü is a bustling hub that showcases the heart of Istanbul's maritime culture. Nestled along the Golden Horn, it provides easy access to the Spice Bazaar and the famous Galata Bridge. The area is perfect for enjoying fresh seafood and soaking in the lively atmosphere. Plus, it's a great spot for taking scenic boat trips along the Bosphorus, allowing you to appreciate the city's stunning skyline from the water. Eminönü is ideal for travellers wanting to experience the vibrant, authentic side of Istanbul.
3. ModaOpens in a new window: If you're looking for a trendy, urban experience, Moda is the place to be. This charming neighbourhood, located on the Asian side of Istanbul, is known for its artistic vibe, with cultural attractions including galleries and theatres. You can enjoy scenic walks along the waterfront and relax in its beautiful parks. Moda is also a fantastic area for shopping, featuring unique boutiques and local artisan shops, making it perfect for those seeking a blend of relaxation and creativity.

Things to do in Istanbul

Istanbul is a vibrant tapestry of history and modernity, where bustling bazaars, serene parks, and stunning waterfronts invite exploration. Enjoy leisurely boating trips along the shimmering waters, hike through lush hills, and relax on sandy beaches. With delightful shopping experiences and rich heritage, every corner offers something new to discover.

• Bağdat AvenueOpens in a new window – Stroll along this vibrant thoroughfare known for its mix of high-end boutiques, local shops, and delightful cafés. Take a break at a charming eatery and enjoy a taste of Turkish cuisine while people-watching.
• Cathedrals and Churches – Explore the architectural beauty of the various cathedrals and churches scattered around Bağdat AvenueOpens in a new window. Each one offers a glimpse into the rich religious history and diverse culture of Istanbul, inviting you to discover their unique stories.
• Museums – Visit local museums along the avenue to delve into the history and heritage of İstanbul. Engage with exhibits that showcase everything from ancient artefacts to contemporary art, providing a well-rounded perspective of the city’s evolution.
• Monuments – As you wander, keep an eye out for monuments that highlight significant events and figures in Turkish history. These landmarks not only enhance the aesthetic of the avenue but also serve as reminders of the past.
• Castles – Venture to nearby castles that echo tales of bygone eras. They offer stunning views and a chance to step back in time, perfect for those curious about Istanbul's storied past.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Istanbul

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Istanbul is between January and March, when hotel prices are generally lower. To truly appreciate the city’s rich history and culture, a stay of at least 3 to 4 days is recommended. This duration allows visitors to explore significant landmarks such as historic monuments, museums, and churches, as well as indulge in the city's stunning architecture and vibrant café culture. Overall, this timeframe offers great value for money, making it an ideal choice for those travelling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to Istanbul, start by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals section on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, which could lead to great savings on hotels. Additionally, the Smart Shopping feature on the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're informed if prices drop or new rooms become available. This way, you can seize the opportunity for a spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to various factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could lead to potential savings on your stay in an Istanbul hotel. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and may offer better value. When you make a booking through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we will recommend alternative dates that could help you secure a more favourable deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Istanbul's outstanding public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel located further away that remains well connected. For those wishing to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be had. Opting for these alternative locations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Istanbul

Istanbul experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 45.0°F (7.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 77.9°F (25.5°C). January tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Istanbul are January, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by no to light rainfall. In contrast, May, October, and November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.