Search the best hotels in Istanbul

Best Central Hotels in Istanbul

Stay right at the heart of Istanbul, where history meets modernity. Central hotels in this vibrant city offer a variety of experiences, from contemporary chic to subtle Ottoman elegance.

The hotels range from small, stylish properties with excellent amenities to quiet oases set just back from bustling squares. Whether it's a luxurious spa or a rooftop terrace with stunning views, you'll find something special.

Top picks for a:

  • Central Istanbul stay with a family-friendly vibe: Amira Hotel
  • Hotel with contemporary rooms and plush furnishings: Amira Hotel

 

 Check out more Istanbul destinations on The Hotel Guru

Ansen Suites

Istanbul (Beyoğlu)

A sophisticated collection of apartments with kitchenettes in a bustling area of Istanbul. Chic contemporary suites have parquet floors, quirky interior design, all the mod cons and stand alone bath tubs. A stylish spot for couples and families.

  • City Style
  • Sights nearby - Many sites accessible on foot including the Istanbul Modern Art Museum
  • Local markets - A short walk from the Fish Market
  • Restaurant
from £48 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Cheers Porthouse

Istanbul (Karaköy)

A small simple guesthouse close to the Bosphorus. Charming contemporary rooms have white walls, exposed brickwork and splashes of colour. A great location and excellent value.

  • Value chic
  • Sights nearby - Within walking distance of both Sultanahmet and Taksim
  • Views
  • Local markets
from £52 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hotel Sari Konak

Istanbul (Sultanahmet)

An elegant base for exploring the sights of Sultanahmet. Fantastic views over the city and sea from the roof top terrace. Rooms festure parquet floors and cream furnishings dotted with Turkish artifacts. The triple suites are ideal for groups or families.

  • Value chic - Great value for this chic and central hotel in the historic Sultanahmet district with roofterrace views of the Blue Mosque.
  • Families - A perfect base for families, the suites can accomodate up to four people and boast wonderful views of the Marmara Sea.
  • Local markets - Test out your haggling skills in the Grand Bazaar, an ideal spot to pick up presents.
  • Sights nearby - This central hotel is walking distance from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
from £65 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

SuB Karakoy

Istanbul (Karaköy)

Uniquely furnished hotel which combines maritime design with a focus on comfort. Located between the old and new cities of Istanbul, allowing for easy forays into both sides of Turkey's capital. Full Turkish breakfast brought to your room, where anti-stress mattresses and LED TV come as standard.

  • Value chic - Chic accommodation at bargain basement prices with doubles from as little as €78 per night.
  • Local exploring - A great location for exploring both old and new Istanbul
  • Sights nearby - Close to Taksim Square and just 15 mins walk from Sultanahmet.
  • Quirky - Nautical theme.
from £68 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Garden House Hotel

Istanbul (Sultanahmet)

A friendly oasis offering four-star comfort in the heart of the old town. Enjoy breakfast in the lovely garden courtyard and al fresco dining in the Turkish restaurant. Elegant rooms feature polished wood floors, kilims and wooden furniture. A real steal in a great location.

  • Romantic Break - This 19th century Ottoman Mansion is ideal for a romantic getaway, with luxorious rooms and a charming leafy garden.
  • Local markets - Get lost in the nearby Grand Bazaar, an ideal spot for picking up bargains to bring home.
  • Sights nearby - This central hotel is just five minutes from Hagia Sophia and the majestic Blue Mosque.
  • Restaurant
from £70 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Galata Antique Hotel

Istanbul (Beyoğlu)

Luxury hotel in historic 19th century Neo-Renaissance mansion. Elegant rooms have funky individual decor, high ceilings, marble bathrooms and double glazed windows. Centrally located in city, within walking distance of sights including Galata Tower and Taksim Square. Roof terrace with city views.

  • Sights nearby - Centrally located, within walking distance to Galata Tower, Taksim Square, Museum of Modern Arts, Hagia Triada
  • Great walks
  • Views
  • Local markets
from £85 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Seven Hills Hotel

Istanbul (Sultanahmet)

Boutique hotel located in Sultanahmet, with a spectacular and unique panorama view from its roof top restaurant. Chic rooms in Ottoman style decor and friendly staff ensure great value for money. Ideally situated to explore Istanbul.

  • Value chic - A charming boutique with elegant suites and a rooftop terrace overlooking the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque
  • Local markets - Just a 15 minute walk from the Grand Bazaar where you can pick up any number of things
  • Sights nearby - Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia are within walking distance of the hotel
  • Great walks - Take a sunset stroll along the coast and admire the fantastic views
from £81 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Room Mate Emir

Istanbul (Beyoglu)

Located a short walk from Istanbul’s iconic Istiklal Avenue, this hotel combines contemporary flair with classic architecture. Expect an avant-garde aesthetic that fuses bold design with timeless elegance. Guests enjoy concierge services and a well-equipped gym. Ideal for relaxation and exploration.

  • Short break - Just steps from Istiklal Avenue, this chic hotel is perfect for exploring Istanbul’s vibrant city life and nearby shopping hubs
  • Local exploring - With easy access to iconic landmarks like Galata Tower, this hotel is ideal for those seeking a stylish base for local adventure
  • Other Activities - Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Cicek Pasajı, a historic arcade filled with cafes and shops, just off Istiklal Avenue
  • Great walks - Stroll through the serene Gulhane Park, a short walk from the hotel, offering lush greenery and historical landmarks
from £96 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Arena Hotel

Istanbul (Sultanahmet District)

Located in the Sultanahmet district, this charming Ottoman-style hotel blends historic elegance with modern comforts. Its antique furnishings and rich fabrics create an inviting atmosphere. Enjoy a buffet breakfast, Turkish cooking classes, and a rejuvenating Turkish bath. A perfect city stay.

  • Other Activities - Immerse yourself in Istanbul's rich history by visiting the nearby Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, both just a short walk away
  • Local exploring - Explore Istanbul’s local treasures with easy access to the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, and the indulgent Turkish baths
  • Cooking classes - Enhance your culinary skills by participating in the hotel's Turkish cooking classes, held in the well-equipped kitchen
  • Great walks - Stroll through the serene Gulhane Park, a historic green space offering a peaceful retreat amidst the city's hustle
from £99 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hammamhane

Istanbul (Beyoğlu)

Nestled in Cukurcuma, 'the Soho of Istanbul', Hammamhane is a renovated apartment-hotel. All rooms are uniquely designed with an eye to contrasting traditional and contemporary styles. Exposed brickwork is the backdrop to colourful yet clean furniture. All studio units boast fully equipped kitchens.

  • Sights nearby - The Museum of Innocence and Istanbul Modern are within a 10 minute walk
  • Local markets - The Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar are within a few kilometres
from £109 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hotel Sultania

Istanbul (Fatih)

This boutique hotel in Sultanahmet offers a blend of modern comfort with an Ottoman-inspired design. Rooms are elegantly furnished with a royal touch, featuring luxurious amenities. Enjoy the rooftop dining with a view, spa, pool, and fitness centre. Ideal for those seeking relaxation and culture.

  • Sights nearby - Visit the nearby Basilica Cistern, a 6th-century underground treasure, and marvel at its impressive architecture and history
  • Other Activities - Take a short walk to the nearby tram station and embark on a Bosphorus cruise, offering stunning views of Istanbul's skyline
  • Local exploring - Immerse yourself in history while staying steps from Gulhane Park, with easy access to Istanbul's top cultural landmarks
  • City Style - Enjoy modern comforts with exquisite Ottoman elegance, just a stroll from Istanbul's most iconic sights
from £118 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Sirkeci Mansion

Istanbul (Sultanahmet District)

Located in Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district, this hotel combines Ottoman-style charm with modern comforts. The rooms are furnished with finely carved wood and the decor says old-world elegance. Enjoy a Turkish feast at Neyzade or relax on the rooftop terrace. A true taste of local culture.

  • Other Activities - Experience Istanbul’s vibrant life through a unique, guided tour of local markets and historic neighbourhoods near the hotel
  • Sights nearby - Explore Istanbul's Ottoman charm with a rooftop terrace overlooking the Bosphorus and historic sites like the Topkapı Palace
  • Local exploring - Dive into Istanbul's authentic culture with cooking classes, city tours, and visits to markets and traditional craft areas
  • Total relaxation - Take a serene cruise along the Bosphorus, offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration
from £134 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Amira Hotel

Istanbul (Sultanahmet)

A small stylish hotel with an excellent restaurant and spa in the heart of the Sultanahmet. Contemporary rooms and family rooms have parquet floors, plush furnishings, and balconies. An excellent restaurant and terrace with spectacular views.

  • City Style
  • Families
  • Sights nearby - Close to all major attractions including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace
  • Spa
from £139 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Rixos Pera

Istanbul (Beyoglu)

Located in the heart of Istanbul's vibrant Beyoglu district, this stylish hotel blends rich history with modern luxury. The decor echoes the region's storied past, with elegant touches and a chic ambience. Enjoy a choice of gourmet dining, spa treatments, and fitness amenities. A perfect city stay.

  • Close to nightlife - Explore the historic Cicek Pasajı, a lively arcade of restaurants and bars, offering a taste of Istanbul's vibrant nightlife
  • Other Activities - Stroll 200 metres to Istiklal Avenue's vibrant shops, theatres, and cafes, immersing yourself in Istanbul's lively culture
  • Great walks - Take a leisurely walk to the historic Galata Tower, just 15 minutes away, and enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline
  • Museums - Discover Ottoman-era art at the nearby Pera Museum, just a short walk from the hotel, enriching your cultural journey
from £156 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hotel Miniature

Istanbul (Fatih)

This boutique hotel, set in a historic building, sits near Istanbul's top landmarks. With stylish rooms featuring exposed brick and marble, it offers a cosy vibe. Enjoy a Turkish breakfast, rooftop dining, and easy access to sights. Perfect for a comfortable stay in Sultanahmet.

  • Other Activities - Unwind in the historic Cagaloglu Hamam, experiencing a traditional Turkish bath in a setting steeped in Ottoman heritage
  • Local markets - Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours and scents of the Grand Bazaar, where over 4,000 shops await your discovery
  • Great walks - Stroll through Gulhane Park's serene pathways, enjoying lush greenery and panoramic views of the Bosphorus Strait
  • Sights nearby - Experience the grandeur of the Blue Mosque, renowned for its six minarets and exquisite blue-tiled interior
from £158 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Orient Occident Hotel

Istanbul

An elegant hotel situated in the historical peninsula of Istanbul. Lavish rooms decorated in rich jewel tones feature opulent soft furnishings, sparkling chandeliers, and marble bathrooms. There are two restaurants, one on the roof with breathtaking views, plus a spa and gym. A stylish city stay.

  • Local exploring - Explore this bustling harbourside area with the towering Süleymaniye Mosque, the Spice Bazaar and vast Grand Bazaar
  • Foodies - Enjoy breathtaking views of the magnificent Bosphorus while savouring delectable and unique Mezze and fine dining
  • City Style - Stay in sleek rooms with plush soft furnishings and state-of-the-art tech
  • Great walks - Stroll around Besiktas, famous for its vibrant and colourful neighbourhood, bazaar, fish market, nightlife, and shopping
from £181 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Faik Pasha Hotels Beyoglu

Istanbul

This boutique hotel in the heart of historic Beyoglu offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. Rooms boast antique furniture and wooden floors, while the spa, gym, and dining options cater to all. A cosy, authentic retreat for those looking to explore Istanbul.

  • Local exploring - Discover historic Cukurcuma's antique shops and nearby cultural gems like the Museum of Innocence, all within walking distance
  • Short break - Stay just steps from Istiklal Avenue and immerse yourself in vibrant urban culture while enjoying cosy, antique-filled rooms
  • Local markets - Stroll through the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the world's largest covered markets, offering a unique shopping experience
  • Museums - Immerse yourself in Istanbul's rich history by visiting the nearby Museum of Innocence, just a short stroll from the hotel
from £181 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hotel Bankerhan

Istanbul (Karayok)

Tucked in Istanbul’s vibrant Karaköy, this hotel blends art and history in a stylish 19th-century building near iconic landmarks. Interiors dazzle with exposed brick, polished concrete, and original Turkish artworks, creating a gallery-like vibe. Expect sleek rooms, modern bathrooms, and a cosy bar.

  • Local exploring - Perfect for a local exploring trip, it's steps from the Kamondo Steps, Galata Tower, and easy tram access to Istanbul’s heart
  • City Style - A stylish city break awaits with sleek interiors, Turkish art, & a chic bar set in a 19th-century gem near Karaköy sights
  • Artworks - Discover Turkish contemporary art on the walls, with vibrant works by leading local artists adding flair to your stay
  • Local markets - Take the Tünel funicular up to Istiklal Caddesi, Istanbul’s premier street for shopping, dining, and nightlife
from £191 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Doruk Palas Hotel

Istanbul (Beyoglu)

Located in the heart of Beyoglu, this hotel offers easy access to Istanbul’s main attractions. The modern decor blends sleek design with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast, a rooftop terrace, and attentive service. Perfect for exploring or relaxing after a day out.

  • Other Activities - Relax in the serene Yıldız Park, a lush green space with Bosphorus views, providing a peaceful escape from the city's hustle
  • Short break - Experience the city’s vibrant pulse, with stylish dining, shopping, and cultural gems like Istiklal Street just moments away
  • Museums - Visit the historic Galata Mevlevi Lodge Museum, offering insights into Ottoman literature and the Whirling Dervish tradition
  • Great walks - Wander along Istiklal Street, a bustling avenue lined with shops, cafes, and historic architecture, just 2km from the hotel
from £208 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Sanasaryan Han

Istanbul

This iconic neo-classical building oozes glamour in the beating heart of Istanbul’s captivating Old Town. The light and airy rooms feature a blend of contemporary design with ancient artefacts. There's a restaurant, cocktail bar and terrace. A Turkish delight tucked away from the hustle and bustle.

  • City Style - Rooms with Turkish motif headboards, historical-style windows, and contemporary design ensure a luxurious stay
  • Local exploring - Discover the sights, sounds and scents of Istanbul, just steps away from this city sanctuary
  • Sights nearby - The Column of Constantine, Spice Bazaar and Topkapi Palace are all close to the hotel
  • Great walks - It's perfectly located to wander around the bustling ferry pier beside the Bosphorus
from £218 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Soho House Istanbul

Istanbul (Beyoglu )

Located in Istanbul’s vibrant Beyoglu district, this sleek hotel blends history and modern design with a mix of 19th-century frescoes and contemporary decor. With four diverse dining options, a Cowshed spa, and lively nightlife, it offers plenty to unwind or energise. A stylish, urban escape.

  • Hideaway - Unwind in the tranquil courtyard garden or indulge in a luxurious spa day after relaxing in stylish, contemporary rooms
  • Great walks - Enjoy a leisurely walk through the serene Emirgan Park, especially vibrant during the annual tulip festival each April
  • Other Activities - Indulge in a traditional Turkish hammam experience at the historic Cagaloglu Hammam, a must-visit near the hotel
  • Sights nearby - Experience panoramic city views from the historic Galata Tower, a short distance from Soho House Istanbul
from £280 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees