Sign in
Saved
← Istanbul · All sections
03 / 12
03
Where to stay
Pick a neighbourhood, not just a hotel
Airport to city
IST: M11 metro + M2, 60–75 min to Taksim · Havaist bus or taxi 45–90 min · SAW: M4 metro, Havabus or taxi 60–90+ min
Getting in
Use the official taxi rank or a pre-booked transfer; an Istanbulkart works on the M11 and M4
Getting around
Walk
Tram T1
Metro
Ferry
Marmaray
Funicular
Taxi / BiTaksi
Istanbulkart
Neighbourhoods
Sultanahmet
The Byzantine and Ottoman core, with Hagia Sophia and Topkapı minutes away. Quiet at night; restaurants are touristy.
Best for a first visit
Save
Karaköy & Galata
Steep lanes below the Galata Tower, with design shops, bakeries and the waterfront. Easy tram and ferry links.
Best for food & design
Save
Cihangir
Leafy streets, cafés and Bosphorus glimpses above Tophane. Lively and central, but very hilly.
Best for cafés
Save
Nişantaşı
Polished boutiques, smart hotels and good restaurants. Calm and central, with metro access from Osmanbey.
Best for shopping
Save
Beşiktaş & Ortaköy
Bosphorus-side hotels, a busy market and ferries to Asia. Handy for Dolmabahçe and evening waterfront walks.
Best for the Bosphorus
Save
Kadıköy & Moda
The Asian side’s market district and seafront, 20 minutes by ferry. Local life and great food.
Best for local life
Save
Balat & Fener
Colourful old houses, churches and synagogues on the Golden Horn. Few hotels; better as a day of wandering.
Best for character
Save
Previous
02 Plan your days
Next
04 Mosques & Muslim traveller notes
WundrPath · City guides
Guides
·
Saved
·
Privacy