For most tourists, particularly first-time visitors, the best parts of Istanbul to stay in are Sultanahmet (for historic, walkable attractions) or Beyoğlu/Taksim (for nightlife, dining, and a modern vibe). Sultanahmet offers proximity to top sites like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, while Beyoğlu, including Taksim and Karaköy, provides vibrant, cosmopolitan energy.
When people visit Istanbul, Türkiye (Turkey), they usually stick to the famous sites in Sultanahmet and the European side. However, the Asian side of this city should not be missed out on. The Asian / Anatolian side is far less touristy, filled with hidden gems and delicious cheap food. It is perfect for a relaxing.
1. Sultanahmet. Sultanahmet is the historical heart of Istanbul, home to iconic landmarks like the UNESCO-recognised Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The narrow streets can be crowded with sightseers, but visitors who have only a short time in the city may want to stay where they'll play.
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
Taksim Square is a center that has witnessed important events in the history of not only Istanbul but also Türkiye, leaving deep traces in cultural and political memory. From the Ottoman period to the modern Turkish Republic, this square is like an open-air museum bearing the traces of different civilizations and eras.
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.
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.
Which area in Istanbul is best for first time visitors?
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.
Balat is one of the oldest and most spectacular districts of İstanbul. The second you step foot along its narrow cobbled streets and historic buildings, you sense an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in İstanbul, and indeed the world.
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.
