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Looking for the coolest hotels in Istanbul? From the fresh design of Soho House to the colourful decor of the Walnut Shell, you’ll just love these hotels!
As the only city that straddles two continents, Istanbul has long been one of my favourite cities to visit. From the ancient architecture to the delicious food to the banging bars, there’s so much to see and do in the city.
With so many different cultures and vibes, it’s no surprise that some of the coolest hotels in Istanbul mix and match modern flair with traditional elements.
Where you stay in Istanbul can have a big impact on your holiday here. Want to be near the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque in the heart of the tourist action? Then you’ll want to stay in Sultanahmet.
If you’re after more of a foodie and nightlife-centric experience, head over the Bosphorus Sea to the Karakoy neighbourhood. It’s all about location, location, location.
To make sure it’s a holiday to remember, I’ve selected these cool Istanbul hotels that have that wow factor. If you’re looking for beautiful views to quirky designs, there is something for everyone here.
From the panoramic vistas of the Mula Hotel to the opulent glamour of the Pera Palace Hotel, there’s bound to be a place perfect for your holiday. Right, it’s time to explore Istanbul!
If you’re heading to Istanbul in winter, then check out my guide on all the best things to do in the city. I’ve been at this time of year and the city is so beautiful without lots of the summer tourists.
Contents:
Where to stay in Istanbul
Sultanahmet – If it’s your first time in Istanbul, make sure you book a hotel in the Sultanahmet neighbourhood. It’s here where you’ll find the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia, so it’s a popular hub. For me, this is a fantastic area to stay in Istanbul.
Eminonu/Sirkeci – Perhaps markets and bazaars are more your bag? If so, think about booking a stay in the Eminonu/Sirkeci area, home to both the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar. It’s also much cheaper than Sultanahmet, so if you’re looking for lower prices, travel here.
Karakoy – Traveling with friends or loved ones and want more of a nightlife scene? Head across to Karakoy. Known for its food, drink, and club scene, it’s a laidback and cool neighbourhood to stay in. There is where I went on a particularly good food tour of Istanbul.
Beyoglu – Looking for a mix of nightlife and museums? Beyoglu is a very up-and-coming neighbourhood. This area is home to some of the coolest hotels in Istanbul as well as some delicious restaurants.
Coolest hotels in Istanbul, Turkey
Luxury hotels
Soho House Istanbul
If you’re looking to be super close to the vibrant Istiklal Avenue, Istanbul’s main restaurant and bar street, you’ll want to check into Soho House Istanbul. Now, Soho House has a reputation for stunning design and high-end facilities. Well, their Istanbul hotel is no different.
Featuring spacious, palatial rooms and suites, and even has a boxing ring in the middle of the hotel gym – that’s definitely something a little bit different for a luxury hotel!
Cronton Design Hotel
This eclectically designed hotel is the perfect escape if you want bright decor with a traditional twist. The Cronton Design Hotel is located in the heart of the bustling Sultanahmet district, so it’s ideal for travelers who want all the main sights on their doorstep.
Honestly, I love the design of the rooms and suites in this place. There are so many vintage and antique features that marry together perfectly with the modern, five-star facilities. Much like Istanbul itself, it’s the best of both worlds.
Pera Palace Hotel
If dark, opulent and moody decor is your kind of thing, well then, I certainly have the Istanbul hotel for you. The Pera Palace Hotel is one of the most extraordinary luxury hotels in Istanbul and harks all the way back to 1892.
Designed and dressed in the French-Ottoman, there’s a beautiful blend of east-meets-west that perfectly encapsulates Istanbul as a whole. From the magnificent chandeliers and common areas to the relaxing and stylish indoor pool and Turkish bath – or hammam – area, you’ll never want to leave!
Azzap Hotel Galata
Located in the gorgeous Beyoglu neighbourhood, the luxurious Azzap Hotel Galata has a distinct townhouse feel to it. Whether it’s the polished checkerboard floors in the common areas to the 360-degree views from the delicious bar and restaurant area, it’s brimming with sophistication,
As the name suggests, the Azzap Hotel Galata is located just 250 yards away from the stunning Galata Tower, as well as being under a kilometre away from the Ataturk Bridge, Palazzo Venezia, and Istanbul Modern.
Mula Hotel
With a stay at the stunning Mula Hotel, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re at some glamorous coastal resort, rather than in the heart of bustling Istanbul. In fact, you’re under a mile away from so many iconic Turkish sights, including Topkapi Palace, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, and the Column of Constantine!
From the panoramic views out over the water to sleek and modern rooms to giant, welcoming sun terraces and balconies, the Mula Hotel is definitely one of the coolest hotels in Istanbul!
Mid-range
The Public
If you’re looking for a bright and modern vibe on your next trip to Istanbul, look no further than The Public. This sleek hotel in the Beyoglu district has a trendy, loft vibe to it which definitely sets it apart from many of the other cool Istanbul hotels.
Located right by Taksim metro and train stations, you can easily get all around Istanbul on a budget. You’re also super close to many of Istanbul’s best squares, plazas, and museums – perfect for people-watching and having a relaxing holiday.
Zimmer Bosphorus Hotel
Are you into brightly coloured rooms and common areas that also have stunning views of the Bosphorus? Well then, the Zimmer Bosphorus Hotel is going to be right up your street. Each room is bursting with personality and modern flair, which is great.
If you’re looking to kick back and relax, head up to the amazing bar and restaurant area. You can indulge in a non-alcoholic beverage or watch the sunset with a fruit-flavoured hookah. The perfect end to a day in Istanbul. For me, this is one of the best boutique hotels in Istanbul.
Deluxe Golden Horn Sultanahmet Hotel
Looking for old-world opulence with a distinctly vintage look and feel to your accommodations? The Deluxe Golden Horn Sultanahmet Hotel has been lovingly designed and kept in a traditional Ottoman decor style, that suits the Old Town feel of the surrounding area.
Located just 200 yards from the Serpent Column, the Deluxe Golden Horn Sultanahmet Hotel is in the heart of old Constantinople – history buffs, this is the spot for you!
Rast Hotel Sultanahmet
I could talk about the beautiful rooms in the Rast Hotel Sultanahmet, and I could tell you about the palatial common areas, but really there’s only one part of this Istanbul hotel that needs to be talked about. That’s the incredible city views that you get from certain rooms and from the hotel’s main restaurant.
Now, there are views and then there’s having your morning coffee with uninterrupted vistas of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. It’s hands-down one of the best views in the city, and it definitely makes the Rast Hotel Sultanahmet one of the coolest hotels in Istanbul.
Budget hotels
Hotel Nena
Want a light, bright, and airy decor scheme in the heart of downtown Sultanahmet, without spending a fortune on accommodation? Well, you need to check out the Hotel Nena. With a clean, sleek, and modern design aesthetic, it’s a relaxing base that makes you feel like you’re a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the streets below.
In fact, you’re only 200 yards from the Column of Constantine and a mere 0.6 miles from the amazing Topkapi Palace. It’s a great location if you’re looking to sightsee!
Walnut Shell Hotel Sultanahmet
If you’re not afraid of a bit of colour, you might have found the coolest hotel in Istanbul. The Walnut Shell Hotel Sultanahmet is bursting with bright and vivacious yellows and oranges that bring so much joy to the decor. It’s probably not the best vibe for a calming and relaxing holiday, but if you want somewhere that packs a punch, you’ve found it here!
It’s not all about the decor though. The location of the Walnut Shell Hotel Sultanahmet is hard to beat, being located just 350 metres away from the iconic Blue Mosque!
Elite Marmara Old City
In need of a cosy, warming spot in Istanbul? The Elite Marmara Old City is all about creating the perfect atmosphere for calming relaxation. From the wood panelling to the subtle lighting to the plush beds, this hotel is the perfect place to rest your weary legs after a long day of walking around Istanbul.
Despite being just a short walk to the bustling Grand Bazaar, travelers have said that the Elite Marmara Old City is actually a super quiet place to stay. Perfect if you need your eight hours of beauty sleep!
Kaya Royal Hotel – Sultanahmet
If you’re after a no-frills hotel in a great location, that also happens to have a beautiful 24-hour roof terrace, then consider checking into the Kaya Royal Hotel. Within striking distance of Cundi Park, the Column of Constantine, and the Basilica Cistern, this Istanbul hotel has a fantastic location for exploring the city’s major sights.
So, there you have it, the coolest hotels in Istanbul. Where are your favourite spots in this beautiful city? Let me know in the comments below and I’ll be sure to check them out!
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