The safest and most popular areas to stay in Istanbul for visitors include the historic Sultanahmet for proximity to sights, Kadıköy for a safe, local, and laid-back vibe on the Asian side, and Beyoğlu (including Taksim and Galata) for a lively, well-patrolled modern experience. Other secure, upscale, or central options include Nişantaşı, Beşiktaş, and Bomonti.
The European side is generally more popular among tourists and offers a wide range of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. The neighborhoods of Sultanahmet and Beyoglu are particularly popular among tourists, with their proximity to major attractions and vibrant nightlife.
Street robbery and pickpocketing are common in the major tourist areas of Istanbul. Be aware of your personal belongings and make sure they are always secure.
Best Areas to Stay in Istanbul | FULL ACCOMMODATION GUIDE 2025
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.
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.
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.
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.
As one of Turkey's most known seaside resorts, Antalya is listed among the safest cities in the country. More precisely, Antalya demonstrates low percentages regarding crime which allows a safe and calm atmosphere. Solo travellers will also enjoy the sense of safety that the city has.
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.
Yeniköy, Bebek, Kuruçeşme, and Tarabya (in European Istanbul), Beykoz and Kandili, Vaniköy, Anadoluhisarı and Kanlıca (in the Asian/Anatolian Istanbul) are the most prestigious neighborhoods.
There's an ongoing high threat of terrorist attacks. Possible targets include tourist areas, transport networks, shopping malls, hotels, places of worship and diplomatic premises. Be alert to potential threats, especially in locations frequented by foreigners.
Did you know that Iran and Turkey are not Arab countries and their primary languages are Farsi and Turkish respectively? Arab countries have a rich diversity of ethnic, linguistic, and religious communities. These include Kurds, Armenians, Berbers and others. There are over 300 million Arabs.
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.
Sultanahmet is by far the most important borough of the historical peninsula of Istanbul. It was the heart of the Byzantine, Constantine and Ottoman empires. Today people still refer to Sultanahmet as the historical heart of Istanbul.
In Turkish cities, shorts and T-shirts are acceptable. Female tourists wear their usual clothing. There is no problem wearing shorts for comfort, except when you visit mosques.
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.
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.
