Hotels & Accommodation in Istanbul

Whispers of Time: Discover the Enchantment of Istanbul's Hidden Treasures

Discover Istanbul, where East meets West in a vibrant tapestry of history and culture. Wander through the majestic Hagia Sophia and the opulent Topkapi Palace, then lose yourself in the bustling Grand Bazaar. Savor tantalising Turkish delights as you cruise the Bosphorus, soaking in the stunning skyline. Explore the serene beauty of the Blue Mosque and relax in a traditional hammam. With its rich heritage, delectable cuisine, and enchanting blend of ancient and modern, Istanbul promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller, whether you seek romance, adventure, or cultural immersion.

Top locations to stay in Istanbul

Some of the best areas to stay in Istanbul are Fatih, Eminönü, and Moda. Fatih offers rich historical sites, including stunning cathedrals. Eminönü is known for its vibrant markets and historical significance. Moda boasts a trendy urban vibe with theatres and cafes. For first-time visitors, Eminönü is the best choice, providing easy access to iconic attractions.

1. FatihOpens in a new window: Fatih is a historic heart of Istanbul, brimming with cultural treasures. Staying here allows you to explore stunning landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, both showcasing incredible architecture and rich history. The area is also known for its bustling bazaars and traditional Turkish baths, offering an authentic experience. With its narrow streets filled with charming cafés and local shops, Fatih immerses you in the vibrant local life and provides easy access to the rest of the city.
2. EminönüOpens in a new window: Eminönü is a lively area that sits along the Golden Horn, making it a fantastic base for tourists. The iconic Spice Bazaar and the New Mosque are just moments away, while the waterfront provides stunning views of the Bosphorus. This area is perfect for those who love historical attractions and want to experience the local market scene. With numerous ferries departing from Eminönü, it’s also a gateway to exploring the Asian side of Istanbul.
3. ModaOpens in a new window: Moda is a trendy neighbourhood known for its artistic vibe and picturesque seaside promenade. This area is home to cultural attractions like theatres and galleries, making it ideal for those who appreciate the arts. With a laid-back atmosphere, Moda offers lovely parks and cafés perfect for leisurely afternoons. The vibrant local scene, combined with its proximity to the coast, provides a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of central Istanbul.

Things to do in Istanbul

Istanbul enchants travellers with its stunning contrasts, where bustling bazaars meet serene parks and scenic coastlines. Explore vibrant markets, savour delicious local cuisine, or embark on scenic boat rides. With lush green spaces and inviting shores, it offers endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure in a truly unique setting.

• Bağdat AvenueOpens in a new window – Discover the vibrant heart of Istanbul’s Asian side, where you can stroll along this famous boulevard lined with upscale boutiques, delightful cafés, and local eateries. This lively precinct offers a perfect blend of shopping and dining experiences, inviting you to explore its charming side streets filled with unique shops and cultural spots.

• Cathedrals and Churches – While Bağdat AvenueOpens in a new window is known for its modern allure, you can also find remnants of Istanbul's rich religious history. Pop into nearby churches that showcase stunning architecture and intriguing histories, perfect for a moment of reflection or appreciation of diverse faiths.

• Museums – Engage with the past at various museums near Bağdat Avenue, where you can learn about Istanbul’s fascinating history and heritage. Whether it’s contemporary art or historical exhibits, there’s something to pique anyone’s interest.

• Monuments – As you wander, keep an eye out for impressive monuments that tell tales of the city’s storied past. These landmarks are not just photo opportunities but also gateways into understanding the cultural fabric of Istanbul.

• Castles – Venture a little further to explore nearby castles that stand as silent sentinels of history. These majestic structures offer insights into the city’s strategic importance through the ages and provide splendid views of the surrounding area.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Istanbul

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Istanbul is between January and March, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a truly enriching experience, it is advisable to stay for at least 3 to 4 days to fully appreciate the city's historical landmarks, cultural sites, and architectural wonders. During your visit, you can explore significant attractions such as historic churches, captivating museums, majestic castles, and vibrant shopping areas, along with indulging in local cafes and dining options. This timeframe not only offers great value for money but also enables you to immerse yourself in the rich heritage and culture of Istanbul while keeping your expenses manageable.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Istanbul, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find reduced rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you don't miss opportunities to save. Additionally, the Smart Shopping feature available in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, helping you make informed choices. With these tools, you're more likely to be notified if prices drop or rooms become available for your spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may enable you to save on your stay in an Istanbul hotel. For those seeking unique experiences, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised touch and may offer better value. When you book with 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 end, we will suggest more economical dates, which could help you secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive; however, thanks to Istanbul's superb public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a little further out that is still conveniently linked. For those keen to explore alternative, less congested neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations 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.