Where to Stay in Istanbul For First-Time Visitors + Best Hotels

So, you’re planning your first trip to Istanbul? Exciting! But now you’re probably finding out that it’s quite the challenge figuring out where to stay in Istanbul for your first visit.

With a city this big—spanning two continents, packed with history, and buzzing with life—you want to be in the right spot to make the most of your trip.

I know exactly how you feel. When my husband and I traveled to Turkey (we even got married there!) in April 2023, I wanted everything to be absolutely perfect.

I researched like a mad woman to figure out exactly where to stay so we’d be in the best location to explore this incredible city. And let me just say—I think I nailed it.

We loved the area we stayed in, and now, I’m here to share and make your decision easier. I’ve laid out exactly where to stay, plus the best hotels to fit your budget.

Let’s find the right spot for your trip!

Which Side of Istanbul is Best for First Timers… Europe or Asia?

Did you know that Istanbul is the only city in the world that spans two continents—Europe and Asia? So choosing where to stay can feel quite overwhelming.

Here’s what you need to know about both sides:

• The European Side is where the major sights are located, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, and Topkapi Palace. It’s the best side to stay if you want to be in the heart of the city and easily access Istanbul’s must-see sights.
• The Asian Side is more laid-back and local, offering cool neighborhoods like Kadıköy with amazing food and cafes. While it’s a great area to explore, and many Istanbul food tours take you here, it’s not the most convenient for first-time visitors who want to maximize their time.

👉 Bottom line: Stay on the European side—it’s where you’ll find the best areas for first-timers, and it’s way easier to get around Istanbul and its major attractions.

Istanbul Neighborhoods Overview

Istanbul is broken up into three main areas – Sultanahmet, Galata, and Kadikoy (as seen in the photo above). Within these three sections, there are a lot of unique neighborhoods, each with its own vibe.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet on what each neighborhood is best for:

Sultanahmet – Best for first-time visitors, history lovers, and exploring on foot.
Grand Bazaar District – Best for shopping and market lovers.
Beyoğlu – Best for vibrant nightlife and foodies.
Karaköy (Galata) – Best for trying Istanbul’s street food and a cool, artsy vibe.
Taksim – Best for families and budget stays.
Beşiktaş & Ortaköy – Best for a relaxed, local experience.
Kabataş – Best for romantics and couples.

Which is the Best Neighborhood to Stay in Istanbul for First Time?

That’s a really good question. Figuring it out can feel overwhelming—trust me, I know!

Istanbul has so many neighborhoods, each with its own vibe and something cool to offer. When I started researching and making my list of things to do, I realized just how massive this city is.

If you want to make the most of your time, staying near the major sights is going to be key. Luckily for you (and me), most of them are packed into one main area.

Now, I’ve only been to Istanbul once and have only scratched the surface of its neighborhoods, but my husband and I loved where we stayed. And if it’s your first visit, I know you’ll love it too.

Here’s the neighborhood you’ll want to stay in…

Sultanahmet – Best for first-time visitors

If you want to be close to Istanbul’s biggest attractions and surrounded by its vibrant culture, then Sultanahmet is where you want to be.

This is where my husband and I stayed during our three days in Istanbul, and we absolutely loved it. Every day, we stepped outside our hotel and were right in the middle of it all.

Sultanahmet is the old city and historic heart of Istanbul, home to the city’s most famous landmarks. You’ll be just steps from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. Instead of spending time figuring out transportation, you can simply walk outside and start exploring.

👉 Since many of Istanbul’s top attractions have dress codes, you’ll want to pack appropriately. My guide on what to wear in Turkey has all the details

Another huge plus is that the area is super walkable. Everything is within walking distance, and if you do want to use public transportation, the tram runs right through the neighborhood, making it easy to visit places like Galata Tower and Istiklal Street.

But, like any popular tourist area, Sultanahmet does come with some cons, but overall, it’s the best neighborhood for your first time.

💡 Pro Tip: Staying in Sultanahmet means you’re right in the heart of the action—but that also means you’ll hear the call to prayer loud and clear, starting around 6 AM. If you’re a light sleeper, pack a good pair of earplugs so you can rest easy without early wake-up calls!

👉 For more insider tips, check out my post: 33 Key Things to Know Before Going to Turkey + Scams to Avoid.

The Best Hotels in Istanbul for First-Time Visitors

Now that you know the best neighborhood to stay in, let’s talk about which hotel to book.

I’ll share the boutique hotel we stayed at and loved, plus two other great options—one of which we checked out just for its incredible rooftop views (totally worth it).

Here are the best hotels in the Sultanahmet district no matter your budget!

📍 Valide Sultan Konagi

This budget-friendly hotel is such a great find. The traditional Turkish breakfast is amazing, and the terrace views of the Bosphorus Strait and Hagia Sophia are beautiful. It’s in a quiet spot but still super close to all the main attractions.

My husband and I stayed here, and we absolutely loved it!

• ⭐⭐⭐⭐
• Price: $
• Best Features: Quiet spot, close to attractions, great breakfast, comfy beds.

➡️ Check Prices & Availability Here

📍Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton

This midrange hotel is in a prime location, just steps from the Hagia Sophia. Their spa is stunning and perfect for unwinding after a long day exploring the city.

• ⭐⭐⭐⭐
• Price: $$
• Best Features: Prime location, luxury spa, stylish rooms.

➡️ Check Prices & Availability Here

📍Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

If you’re looking for a luxury stay, this place is incredible. The rooftop terrace has some of the best views of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, making it unforgettable.

• ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
• Price: $$$
• Best Features: Best rooftop views, great location, cozy rooms.

➡️ Check Prices & Availability Here

Know Before You Book Your Hotel in Istanbul

Before you book your hotel, you should know that not all booking websites work in Turkey. For example, the popular Booking.com doesn’t.

You won’t be able to access your reservation once you arrive, which is the last thing you want to deal with after a long flight.

I personally found Hotels.com to be the easiest and most reliable option. You’ll have no problem checking your booking, making changes, or pulling up details while you’re there. Plus, they offer my favorite rewards program that lets you earn cash back on hotels, flights, and rentals—something that can come in handy if you travel often.

No matter which platform you use, I recommend double-checking that it’s accessible in Turkey before you book.

👉 And if you feel the need to tip your hotel staff in Istanbul, be sure to check out my guide on tipping in Turkey before you do. Tipping customs in Turkey can be a little different than what you’re used to.

Where to Stay in Istanbul for First Time: FAQ’s

Still have some questions about where to stay? Here are some quick answers to the most common questions to help you choose.

Is it better to stay in old town or new town Istanbul?

If you’re visiting for 2-4 days, staying in Old Town (Sultanahmet) is the best choice. This area puts you within walking distance of the major sights, so you won’t waste time commuting. If you prefer a more modern vibe with trendy cafés and shopping, New Town (Beyoğlu) is a good option, but you’ll need to rely more on public transport to see the historic sites.

Is Istanbul safe for American travelers?

Yes! Istanbul is generally safe for American travelers, and tourists visit without issues every day. Like any major city, it’s smart to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas where pickpocketing can happen. Stick to well-lit areas at night, be cautious of scams, and keep an eye on your belongings, and you’ll be just fine.

What is the safest area for tourists in Istanbul?

Sultanahmet is one of the safest areas for tourists. It’s heavily patrolled, full of visitors, and home to many reputable hotels. Because it’s the heart of Istanbul’s historic district, there’s a constant presence of security near major attractions.

What areas to stay away from in Istanbul?

There aren’t necessarily dangerous areas, but some places can be a bit chaotic for tourists. Taksim Square and the Grand Bazaar are exciting to visit but can attract pickpockets, so be mindful of your belongings. Some districts outside the tourist zones, like Aksaray and certain parts of Fatih, may feel rougher around the edges, so they’re not the best choice for first-time visitors.

How many days is enough to stay in Istanbul?

At least 3 full days will give you enough time to see the major sights without feeling rushed. If you have 4-5 days, you can dive deeper into different neighborhoods, take a Bosphorus cruise, and experience more of the city’s food and culture. But if all you have is one day in Istanbul, you can still see the must-sees—just be ready for a packed schedule!

👉 To further optimize your visit, consider planning your trip during the most favorable times of the year. For detailed information, refer to my guide on the Best Time to Visit Turkey.”

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That’s a Wrap

From my personal experience, where to stay in Istanbul for first-time travelers is definitely Sultanahmet. It put us right in the heart of the city’s top sights, saved us time on transportation, and made exploring effortless.

If it’s your first visit, I highly recommend it.

Now, all that’s left is to book your hotel—and I highly recommend the one we stayed in: Valide Sultan Konagi !

Catch ya when the next trip calls!