Hotels

This is the tricky part. Everyone has their own ideal of what constitutes a good place to stay. Some look at the price, some look at the location, some look at the swimming pool and if it’s got a mini bar.

Therefore in an effort to at least give people a few ideas we’ve included a couple in each of the main parts of the city which may appeal, Taksim and Sultan Ahmet. As a broad rule of thumb Sultan Ahmet is great for historical sites and fine architecture. Taksim is the more modern bit of Istanbul and thus is where to go for the best restaurants, shopping and bars. Nightclubs tend to be slightly further afield from both areas with the best being a bit further down the Bosphorus but of the two, Taksim would be the nearer. Also, it’s worth noting Taksim and Sultan Ahmet are linked by an ultra modern tram so it’s not too difficult to get about between the two.

It’s also worth saying neither of us have ever stayed at these hotels but having checked websites and spoken to the Istanbul tourist board we’re told that they’re recommended (however, and we can’t stress this point enough, don’t blame us if they’re rubbish!)

Taksim Hotels

Option 1 Moderate: GRAND STAR HOTEL €65 Single / €73 double. Excellent location near Taksim Square

Option 2 Moderate: TULIP CITY HOTEL Single €65 / Double €70

Option 3 Moderate GOLDEN AGE 1 HOTEL €79 single / €92 double. This hotel is 3 is 5 minutes walk from Taksim Square and has an outdoor swimming pool on the roof. It is a little further to get to the historic Sultan Ahmet are but can be reached by one stop on
the metro which connects with the tram.

And finally......... The 5* Option at a (relatively) reasonable price
ORTAKOY PRINCESS A couple of miles from Taksim in a cheap taxi (a 24h taxi rank is at the
hotel) the Ortakoy Princess in Besiktas district is a beautiful location to have a bit of luxury right on the banks of the Bosphorus. With a gorgeous outside pool this is a really quality spot to stay for a few nights of luxury. Zerrin has negotiated a special price of €85-105 for a single and €105-135 for a double.

Sultan Ahmet Hotels

Option 1 Moderate: AGORA LIFE 3* style hotel, rooftop breakfast restaurant overlooking the Bosphorus. €79 single / €99 double.

Option 2 Budget: HOTEL PENINSULA A small boutique hotel in a quiet corner of Sultanahmet only 5 minutes walk from many of the major sites.. Typical rates €40 single / €40-55 double

And finally......... Moderate NAZ WOODEN HOUSE INN Prices on application but c€40 per person. Good recommendations and a nice part of town.