The 10 best hotels in Istanbul

Are you planning a vacation in the beautiful city of Istanbul? To make your stay as pleasant as possible, we’ve selected the city’s best hotels for you.

Once called Byzantium, then Constantinople, Istanbul is the city that links Europe to Asia. It lies on the Bosphorus, the strait that links the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara.

More than 2,600 years old, this city continues to fascinate and remains an exceptional destination for history buffs. Indeed, thanks to its exceptional geographical location, the city has acquired an incredible cultural vibrancy. With its superb mosques, numerous palaces and world-renowned markets, Istanbul is a city not to be missed!

And to help you fully immerse yourself in Istanbul culture, Generation Voyage has selected the best hotels in Istanbul.

The real thing

Istanbul is a true paradise for history lovers! If that’s what you’re after, what better way to spend the night than in one of Istanbul’s beautifully decorated mansions?

1. Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet

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Right in the center of town, on a tree-lined street, this upscale, elegant hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the magnificent Basilica of Saint Sophia, a former Byzantine church and mosque.

The establishment features a patisserie, a sophisticated restaurant with city views, and a spa with an indoor pool. This makes it the ideal hotel for a stay in Istanbul. More than just a five-star hotel, theAjwa Hotel Sultanahmet offers serenity and hospitality!

Decorated in pure Ottoman style with traditional accents, you’ll also appreciate the atmosphere of this hotel, which will immediately immerse you in the culture of Stambouliote. Book this hotel

2. Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul

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In the same spirit, we now offer you accommodation at the Çırağan Palace Kempinski. Set in a richly decorated former Ottoman palace overlooking the Bosphorus Strait, this is undeniably one of Istanbul’s finest hotels!

Indeed, the hotel not only offers an ambience in the heart of the city, but also reflects the luxury and charm of a true Ottoman palace.

What’s more, you can relax in the Turkish bath or enjoy a massage in a private cabin. You can also enjoy a relaxing dip in the infinity pool after a day full of sightseeing! Book this hotel

3. Sofitel Istanbul Taksim

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The Sofitel Istanbul Taksim is the new representation of Istanbul’s artistic beauty and historic mysticism! Nestled among the restaurants around lively Taksim Square, this refined hotel is an excellent base.

In fact, it’s just 2 kilometers from the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art and the 19th-century Dolmabahçe Palace. After a day rich in discoveries, you can enjoy the hotel’s warm and welcoming atmosphere… and taste refined local specialties in its lovely restaurant. Book this hotel

4. Seven Hills Palace & Spa

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Perfectly located in the Fatih district, this richly decorated hotel overlooking the Sea of Marmara has it all. With its sumptuous furnishings and golden walls, this Istanbul hotel invites you to relax!

Its ideal location means you can walk to Topkapi Palace or the famous Grand Bazaar market in just a few minutes. After visiting these exceptional places, you can enjoy the large outdoor swimming pool and bar at the end of the day. Book this hotel

The Romantics

There’s no shortage of charming hotels in Istanbul! So, if you’re a fan of unusual addresses, where the welcome is just as charming as the decor, discover the city’s best hotels to come to with your other half.

5. Radisson Blu Hotel, Vadistanbul

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Enjoy a relaxing stay at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Vadistanbul! Featuring a garden, bar, restaurant, swimming pool, hammam and gym, this is one of Istanbul’s finest hotels.

It offers its guests a vast choice of views over the city or the forest, located right next to the hotel. It’s an incredible environment that will delight you, at least as much as the warm welcome offered by the hotel’s staff, which many travelers rave about! Book this hotel

6. Fairmont Quasar Istanbul Hotel

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Overlooking the Bosphorus Strait, this contemporary luxury hotel offers quality rooms with a peaceful ambience. Some even boast a Turkish bath and/or a view of the strait, perfect for a romantic moment!

The hotel’s warm and welcoming atmosphere is sure to please. After a long day on the streets of Istanbul, you can relax and enjoy delicious meals prepared with fresh seasonal produce in one of the hotel’s two restaurants… Or take a dip in its superb outdoor pool! Book this hotel

7. Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamış Marina Hotel

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Located right next to the Kalamış park and marina , this hotel boasts an ideal location in the city of Istanbul. In fact, by choosing this hotel, you’ll find yourself, for example, just a few minutes’ walk from Fenerbahçe’s Şükrü-Saracoğlu stadium!

What’s more, if you’d like to invite your loved one for dinner, you’ll be spoilt for choice. There are no fewer than 8 restaurants to choose from: modern cuisine, seafood dishes, light fare or international cuisine… there’s something for everyone!

Add to this the 2 outdoor pools, the heated indoor pool and the spa, and you’ve got everything you need for a superb stay for 2. Book this hotel

8. Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul

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Situated right in the center of Istanbul on the banks of the Bosphorus, Swissotel The Bosphorus enjoys a privileged location in the Istanbul metropolitan area! It’s just a few minutes’ walk from Nisantasi, the city’s main luxury shopping district.

What’s more, the tastefully decorated rooms combine Swiss design with Turkish warmth… the epitome of Istanbul style and luxury! You’ll enjoy a full range of hotel services, as well as a rooftop swimming pool with an exceptional view of the Bosphorus Strait. Book this hotel

Soft prices

Even on a small budget, you can stay in Istanbul! Among the city’s abundance of hotels, we’ve unearthed some real bargains for you.

9. Cheers Lighthouse

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With its warm, relaxed decor, Cheers Lighthouse is a youth hostel with the look and feel of a boutique hotel! Offering a lovely view of the Sea of Marmara, the hostel welcomes you to the historic district of Sultanahmet, just a few steps from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

Simply furnished, our accommodations ensure cleanliness and comfort, all in a friendly atmosphere and at a reasonable price! And if you’re still on the fence, you should know that we offer free breakfast to all our guests! That should convince you to stay at Cheers Lighthouse for your Istanbul vacation! Book this hotel

10. Hotel Zurich Istanbul

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Zurich Istanbul is the ideal place for those wishing to enjoy the comforts and facilities of a hotel, all at a reasonable price. Located close to Istanbul’s lively shopping district, it is ideally situated in the old town. You’ll be able to reach many points of interest, such as Hagia Sophia Basilica and the Blue Mosque, in just a few minutes!

For added comfort, there’s also a heated indoor pool and a bar serving fresh fruit juices. There’s also a spa with a whirlpool bath overlooking the sea, a sauna, a hammam and a Turkish bath… everything you need for a great stay at this hotel! Book this hotel

Between modernity and tradition, luxury and conviviality, Istanbul’s hotels are as diverse as the city’s facets. Now that you know the best establishments, which hotel will you stay in for your next vacation in Turkey?