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

Choosing between Istanbul’s Old Town (Sultanahmet) and New Town (Beyoğlu/Taksim) depends on whether you prefer to be steps away from historic monuments or in the center of modern culture and nightlife. Sultanahmet is best for first-time, short-stay tourists, while New Town offers superior dining, nightlife, and a more local vibe.

Which area in Istanbul is best to stay?

The best area in Istanbul depends on your priorities: Sultanahmet is perfect for first-timers wanting historic sights (Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque), while Beyoğlu (Galata, Taksim) offers vibrant nightlife, shopping, and modern eateries, and Karaköy blends hip cafes with history, ideal for foodies and transit. For a local, laid-back feel or food scene, try Kadiköy on the Asian side, or Beşiktaş for romance and refinement. 

Which side of Istanbul is better to stay on?

The best area to stay in Istanbul for your first time is Sultanahmet, thanks to its walkability, proximity to major attractions, and direct access to Tram Line 1. If you want somewhere central but less touristy, Sirkeci and Karaköy are equally great options with competitive prices.

Where to avoid staying in Istanbul?

• Tarlabaşı Tarlabaşı is a historic neighborhood near Istanbul's city center, known for its Ottoman-era architecture and cultural diversity. ...
• Aksaray. ...
• Kumkapı ...
• Laleli. ...
• Gültepe. ...
• Kuştepe. ...
• Gaziosmanpaşa. ...
• Esenyurt.

Where is the nicest part of Istanbul?

Istanbul's coolest neighbourhoods are Cihangir, Curkucuma and Karaköy. Cihangir is also called the French Quarter, Curkucuma the Antique Quarter and Karaköy the former red-light district.

TOP Neighborhoods to stay in Istanbul from someone who lives here!

What is the safest area to stay in Istanbul?

What is the safest place to stay in Istanbul? Sultanahmet is the historic center of Istanbul and extremely touristic. As such, there are many hotels and facilities around this area and security is high, giving you peace of mind.

Where to stay in Istanbul, Turkey for first timers?

For first-time visitors with a relatively short stay, we recommend the Sultanahmet area. It's close to most of Istanbul's famous historical sites, making it easier to see the main attractions without spending too much time on transportation.

Is it better to stay near Taksim or Sultanahmet?

If it's your first time here, don't think twice: sleep in Sultanahmet, undoubtedly the best area to stay in Istanbul. This neighborhood is the oldest part of the city, the former heart of Constantinople, and is the perfect base for exploring major historical wonders on foot.

Which side of Istanbul is expensive?

Accommodation: Hotel prices in the European side are typically 20% to 40% higher than those in the Asian side, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Sultanahmet and Taksim. Dining: Restaurants in the European side, especially near landmarks, are more expensive.

Where to stay in Old Town Istanbul?

Featured Hotels in Old City Sultanahmet

• Meretto Hotel LALELİ Fatih, Istanbul. ...
• Agora Guesthouse. Fatih, Istanbul. ...
• Hotel Empress Zoe. Fatih, Istanbul. ...
• Asur Hotel. Fatih, Istanbul. ...
• Saruhan Hotel. Fatih, Istanbul. ...
• Reyyan Hotel. Fatih, Istanbul. ...
• Hotel Ibrahim Pasha. Fatih, Istanbul. ...
• Mina Hotel - Special Category. Fatih, Istanbul.

What area of Istanbul is most walkable?

Sultanahmet

The (seriously) historic center of İstanbul and the former seat of both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, Sultanahmet contains the majority of the city's most-visited sights within walking distance of each other, making it a convenient base.

What is the main centre of Istanbul?

Taksim Square (Turkish: Taksim Meydanı, IPA: [ˈtaksim ˈmejdanɯ]), situated in Beyoğlu in the European part of Istanbul, Turkey, is a major tourist and leisure district famed for its restaurants, shops, and hotels. It is considered the heart of modern Istanbul, with the central station of the Istanbul Metro network.

Is Sultanahmet an old city?

The Sultanahmet area is the heart of old Istanbul and home to important historical landmarks, like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. Cobbled streets, ancient walls and historical buildings surrounding Sultanahmet's old city make the area a delight to explore.

Where to stay in Istanbul not touristy?

Although Sirkeci is not nearly as polished or impressive as Sultanahmet, it's a lot less touristy, which can be quite nice if you're looking for somewhere a little more local. The area is also significantly more affordable, so if you're on a budget, it makes a much better choice.

Which part of Istanbul is best for tourists?

Sultanahmet is the obvious choice for first-time visitors who want to stay in the historical and cultural heart of Istanbul. It's the oldest part of the city - and also the most popular. Not that this is a bad thing, because Sultanahmet, in the Fatih district, is one of the best areas to stay in Istanbul.

Is Sultanahmet safe for tourists?

Istanbul is a safe city and Sultan Ahmed is one of the safest areas. Since this is a tourist district, you'll always see police around. Even special tourism police in their vehicle checking the streets. The only thing that might bother you are street sellers offering flowers and perfume.

Is it good to stay near Taksim Square in Istanbul?

Taksim Square is located in the heart of Istanbul and is the ideal starting point for exploring the city. Staying here, you can enjoy being just steps away from the city's most iconic and popular spots: Istiklal Street, Galata Tower, the Bosphorus coast and the historic Sultanahmet Square are all within easy reach.

Should I stay in Taksim or Sultanahmet?

Some people think that Sultanahmet, being the historic part of Istanbul, is much more atmospheric and authentic than Taksim. There are, of course, plenty of restaurants in Sultanahmet to enjoy. These are a little pricier than the restaurants on the Taksim side, but do offer a range of Turkish and international food.

Which is the safest area to stay in Istanbul?

The best areas and neighborhoods to stay in Istanbul for tourists are: the historic Fatih (Sultanahmet, Eminönü) the hipster Beyoğlu (Cihangir, Pera, Taksim, İstiklal, Galata)

What is the most touristic area in Istanbul?

Most of the tourists visiting Istanbul go to Taksim Square & İstiklal Avenue: The modern heart of the city, known for shopping, dining, and nightlife, Sultanahmet: The historic core, home to the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern.

Where should I stay in Istanbul as a tourist?

Below is a quick at-a-glance overview of the best areas to stay in Istanbul, based on different travel styles, budgets and priorities.

• Sultanahmet (Fatih district)
• Galata (Beyoğlu district)
• Karaköy (Beyoğlu district)
• Taksim / Istiklal Street (Beyoğlu district)
• Ortaköy (Beşikaş district)
• Moda (Kadıköy district)

Is Taksim Square safe at night?

Yes, Taksim Square is generally safe at night as there is a constant police presence, and the area is crowded with tourists and locals. However, it is always best to be careful and avoid side streets that are not well lit.

Where do most Brits live in Turkey?

The majority of white-collar worker Britons are found in Istanbul and İzmir, with smaller populations scattered throughout the capital Ankara. British residents living in smaller urban centres are mainly occupied in the textile and energy sectors.