Istanbul, with a population of more than 15.7 million people, is a microcosm of Turkey. This city has no two neighborhoods being alike due to the diversity of its citizens’ cultural origins. From extremely traditional regions to modern areas full of art galleries and restaurants, Istanbul neighborhoods have something for everyone in this tourist city.
The best neighborhood in Istanbul will help you make a better trip in this metropolis. Neighborhoods like Sultanahmet, Taksim, and Kuzguncuk offer better investment opportunities, too. All in all, knowing the top neighborhoods in Istanbul is essential for its residents and travelers.
Where to Stay in Istanbul?
Wondering where to stay in Istanbul? Recognizing what neighborhood in Istanbul is better than others will help you a lot in deciding. Therefore, we have listed the top 10 Istanbul neighborhoods here. In the following text, we will review these Istanbul neighborhoods:
- Fatih
- Ilche Beşiktaş
- Çukurcuma
- Bebek
- Bakirkoy
- Sultanahmet
- Asmalı Mescit
- Levent
- Arnavutköy
- Sarıyer
First, we will have a quick review of each of these neighborhoods. Then, we will discuss their advantages and disadvantages individually. Also, we will list some of the best hotels located in each neighborhood.
Fatih, the Best Neighborhood in Istanbul
One of the best neighborhoods in Istanbul to stay in is Fatih. This area has several interesting things to see. They include the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, Hagia Sophia Mosque, Arasta Bazaar, Topkapi Palace Museum, Basilica Reservoir, Equestrian Square, and other attractions. The Grand Bazaar, also known as Kapali Charshior, is one of the world’s oldest and largest markets. It is in this area and draws a considerable number of tourists each year.
This market ranked first among the world’s most visited markets in 2011. Despite its exorbitant pricing and unsuitability for shopping, the Grand Bazaar is recognized as one of the greatest venues for money exchange. Because of the different textures of this area, living in the Fatih region may be quite tempting. The presence of a considerable number of police officers in this region demonstrates the security of the area. For this reason, Fatih is known as one of the top neighborhoods in Istanbul.
Advantages
- Rich history and culture with many historic landmarks.
- Good accessibility in the middle of the European side
- More affordable compared to Beyoğlu and Kadıköy
Disadvantages
- The neighborhood gets crowded by tourists and traffic
- A more traditional and conservative atmosphere with limited nightlife
- Old buildings
Recommended Hotels in Fatih Neighborhood
| Name | Accommodation Type | Highlights and Features |
|---|---|---|
| Ottoman Elegance Inn | Traditional inn | Located in the heart of Fatih, near major attractions. Traditional Ottoman décor. Offers an authentic Turkish breakfast. |
| Sultan's Family Retreat | Family-friendly hotel | Spacious family rooms with kid-friendly amenities. Close to parks and kid-friendly attractions. Complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi. |
| Travelers' Haven Hostel | Budget hostel | Affordable dormitory and private rooms. Communal kitchen and lounge area. Walking distance to major historical sites. |
Ilche Beşiktaş, One of the Best Neighborhoods in Istanbul for Tourists
You can’t visit Istanbul without seeing the Beşiktaş district. Various historical and tourist landmarks in Istanbul are right in this area, and failing to visit them would be a great mistake. Beşiktaş, a once-forested hamlet, is now an urban area in the heart of Istanbul’s European section, home to the upper middle class. Some tourists also know Beşiktaş as a luxury neighborhood in Istanbul.
Some of the attractions in Istanbul’s Beşiktaş neighborhood include Dolme Baghche Palace, Yildiz Palace, Ihlamor Palace, Khadijah Sultan Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, and the Navy Museum. In this Istanbul neighborhood, you may find inexpensive traditional dinners. Beşiktaş also features a lively nightlife and the option of purchasing fresh fish. Beşiktaş, one of Istanbul’s most well-known districts, is home to the renowned Nusrat and Ulus 29 restaurants and several luxury hotels.
Advantages
- Rich history and culture with many historic landmarks.
- Good accessibility in the middle of the European side
- More affordable compared to Beyoğlu and Kadıköy
Disadvantages
- The neighborhood gets crowded by tourists and traffic
- A more traditional and conservative atmosphere with limited nightlife
- Old buildings
Recommended Hotels in Ilche Beşiktaş Neighborhood
| Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul | Luxury hotel | Waterfront views, seasonal outdoor pool, indoor pool, and a Turkish hammam |
| Çırağan Palace Kempinski | Luxury 5-star hotel | A renowned spa, an infinity pool that seems to merge with the Bosphorus, and beautiful gardens |
| Conrad Istanbul | Traditional guest rooms | Views of the city and Bosphorus, Manzara Restaurant, Summit Bar & Terrace, and Soul Spa |
Çukurcuma, One of the Top Neighborhoods in Istanbul’s Asian Side
Part of the larger Beyoğlu district, the Çukurukuma district is the city’s antique district, where you can find many old objects. Here, you will find famous antique shops such as A La Turca, Modern Tarih, and Asli Gunsiray. You can walk around the neighborhood and enjoy the attractions that are always open. Another attraction in Istanbul’s Çukurcuma district is the Museum of Innocence, a literary museum built by Turkish Nobel laureate Orhan Pamuk.
For those looking to explore Çukurcuma’s hidden treasures, renting a car in Istanbul can enhance the experience significantly. Navigating from Istanbul’s bustling airport or any part of the city, car rental provides the freedom to explore Çukurcuma or any other Istanbul neighborhood. It allows for an easy transition from the Asian side’s scenic landscapes or the European side’s historic landmarks directly to the doorstep of Çukurcuma’s winding streets. This flexibility in travel ensures that visitors can immerse themselves fully in the eclectic charm of Çukurcuma, making the journey as memorable as the destination itself.
Advantages
- Artistic and bohemian vibe with many art galleries
- Aesthetic appeal along with historic streets
- Central and accessible location
Disadvantages
- High housing prices
- Limited amenities like large shopping centers
- Narrow streets and old infrastructure
Recommended Hotels in Çukurcuma Neighborhood
| Hammamhane | Suites and apartments | Spacious suites equipped with private kitchens, modern furnishings, air conditioning, and heated cork floors |
| Corinne Art & Boutique Hotel | Boutique rooms | Art-inspired decor, vintage-style furnishings, balconies overlooking the Bosphorus, rooftop terrace |
| The Stay Bosphorus | Luxury boutique hotel | Rooms overlooking the Bosphorus, elegant and modern design |
Bebek, One of the Best Istanbul Neighborhood to Live
This gorgeous neighborhood is near the bay and has produced a very stunning setting for the residences in this region.
The majority of the residences in the Bebek neighborhood are brand new and have unique styles and construction. Aside from the beauty and tourist areas in this neighborhood, you should be aware that the prices of villas and houses in this neighborhood are very high. Even many people believe that the homes in this area are located on one of the most expensive streets in Istanbul.
On the other hand, this popular Istanbul neighborhood has a lot to offer. For instance, Bebek has historical sites, like the Bebek Mosque, waterfront views, and a rich culinary scene. Besides, Bebek has more relaxed nightlife than other Istanbul neighborhoods.
Advantages
- Luxurious lifestyle
- Various green spaces with fantastic Bosphorus views
- One of the safest neighborhoods in Istanbul
Disadvantages
- High cost of living
- Limited public transportation options
Recommended Hotels in Bebek Neighborhood
| Bebek Hotel by The Stay | Luxury hotel | Elegant suites with Bosphorus views, Dragon Restaurant, rooftop bar |
| Villa Denise | Mid-range apartment-style rooms | A cozy and traditional decor, family-friendly, convenient access to local attractions |
| Ajia Hotel | Luxurious rooms and suites | Private dining, waterside terrace, located in a historic mansion |
Bakirkoy, a Famous Istanbul Neighborhood
Bakirkoy is one of the oldest districts of Istanbul. This area is located on the European side of the city, between the E5 motorway and the coast of the Sea of Marmara. Bakirkoy is mainly inhabited by middle-class people as a residential and development area. Shopping centers (Carousel, Capacity, and Galleria Mall), botanical gardens, and marsh are located in the Bakirkoy district.
Staying at the Radisson Blu Hotel Istanbul puts you right in the heart of the Bakirkoy district. The area is known for its excellent location near the airport, with metro and bus stations providing easy access to the center.
Apart from famous shopping centers, Bakirkoy is home to the Istanbul Aquarium. It’s one of the largest aquariums in Europe. Other spots that make Bakirkoy a popular neighborhood in Istanbul are Freedom Square and Ebuzziya Street. These two are the famous social hubs in Bakirkoy. They are filled with cafes and restaurants and host social events.
Advantages
- Beautiful seaside areas
- Convenient amenities such as shopping centers, dining options, and hospitals
- Good transportation connection
Disadvantages
- High cost of living
- Busy and noisy streets
Recommended Hotels in Bakirkoy Neighborhood
| JW Marriott Hotel Istanbul Marmara Sea | Luxury 5-star hotel | Three restaurants, an extensive spa, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool, sea views |
| The Time Hotel Marina | 4-star hotel | Indoor swimming pool, spa, sauna, free parking, close to the coast and local restaurants |
| Ravvda Hotel | Budget-friendly hotel | Free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, convenient location near public transit |
Sultanahmet-Old City, a Neighborhood with Many Attractions
A visit to Istanbul would not be complete without a visit to the Old City, once the social and political center of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. This district offers a glimpse into the historical center of Istanbul and some of its architectural wonders. Istanbul is a peninsula surrounded by bodies of water to the north, east, and south (Golden Horn, Bosphorus, and Sea of Marmara). Also, because of the old city walls, this part of the city formerly called Constantinople is today taken over by the city of Istanbul.
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, which is the source of the neighborhood’s name, as well as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Istanbul Grand Bazaar, Arasta Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, and the Royal Palace Basilica, can all be found in this neighborhood. The Cistern encompasses the entire ancient commercial center, the Hippodrome, as well as the surrounding restaurants and cafés.
Advantages
- Rich in history and culture with many historic sites
- Aesthetic buildings with old Ottoman and Byzantine architecture
- Many tourist-driven services, such as hotels, restaurants, and cafes
Disadvantages
- Heavy tourist traffic and noisy streets
- High cost of living
- Limited residential buildings
Recommended Hotels in Sultanahmet Neighborhood
| Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet | Luxury 5-star hotel | Luxurious rooms, rooftop terrace, panoramic views, elegant restaurant, restored historic building |
| Hotel Amira Istanbul | Mid-range boutique hotel | Sea views, spa, rooftop terrace, modern amenities |
| Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel | Family-friendly 5-star hotel | Beautiful garden, large outdoor pool, easy access to landmarks, on-site restaurants |
Asmalı Mescit, One of the Safest Neighborhoods in Istanbul
One of the best neighborhoods in Istanbul is Asmali. This area, located near the end of Esteghlal Street, has a long history, but different developments have taken away some of its texture and originality. However, some of the neighborhood’s draws include the presence of colorful Renaissance-era buildings, live music in Asmaali’s alleys and streets, various restaurants, and other attractions. The Asmali Mosque is located in the Beyoğlu district.
Furthermore, Asmalı Mescit is a hub for Istanbul’s nightlife. The old and narrow alleys in this Istanbul neighborhood have a modern twist. This district is full of modern bars, cafes, and Turkish mayhanes. Besides, Asmalı Mescit is a heaven for art lovers. This Istanbul neighborhood has a lot of art galleries. It’s ideal for Nyctophiles looking to flourish their creative spirits.
Advantages
- Lively and active nightlife
- Central location with good accessibility to main Istanbul streets
- A progressive atmosphere with many social events like art exhibitions and music performances
Disadvantages
- Lack of parks and open spaces
- Crowded streets with high noise level
- Higher expenses than other areas
Recommended Hotels in Asmalı Mescit Neighborhood
| The Westist Hotel & Spa | Boutique hotel | Modern, stylish rooms, a full-service spa, an on-site restaurant |
| Meroddi Barnathan Hotel | Historic hotel | Rooftop terrace with scenic views, cozy interiors, close to cultural landmarks |
| Mukarnas Pera Hotel | Budget-friendly hotel | Comfortable rooms, modern amenities, close to Istiklal Street and Taksim Square |
Levent, Top Istanbul Neighborhood for Financial Centers
The Levent neighborhood is another good area to stay in. The existence of three significant tunnels in this neighborhood provides enough opportunity for exploration. Aside from that, the presence of a good transportation system in this neighborhood is regarded as one of its benefits. It should be noted that this area is one of Istanbul’s business areas.
One of the main features of Levent neighborhood is the Büyükdere Avenue. This street captures the financial essence of Levent. Büyükdere consists of major corporation offices and banks. Along with tall office buildings, Levent has many luxury shopping centers. You can explore malls like Kanyon, Metrocity, and ÖzdilekPark and visit some of the high-end international brands. Besides, you can dedicate some time to leisure activities.
Advantages
- The financial hub of Istanbul, percent for those looking for a profession in business
- Modern infrastructure with high-quality residential complexes
- One of Istanbul’s safest neighborhoods
Disadvantages
- High cost of living
- Limited green spaces
- Lack of cultural and historical attractions
Recommended Hotels in Levent Neighborhood
| Hyatt Centric | Luxury hotel | Elegant rooms, a full-service spa, an indoor pool, an on-site restaurant, close to malls like Kanyon and Metrocity |
| Sheraton Istanbul Levent | Business-friendly hotel | Spacious rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, business amenities, fitness center |
| Upsuites Hotel | Mid-range | Clean, quiet rooms, a shared lounge, free private parking |
Arnavutköy, Another One of the Best Neighborhoods in Istanbul
This is a historic neighborhood in Istanbul, Turkey, where you can see old and charming houses and enjoy the views while wandering through its alleyways. Arnavut Koy’s ancient texture and nightlife have made it one of Istanbul’s most famous neighborhoods. Which is located in the Beşiktaş district.
Apart from the surface of the neighborhood and the nightlife, we must mention that the existence of many restaurants and cafés in Arnavot Koi makes it a great place to stay. Not to mention the advantages of comfort and leisure amenities that this neighborhood has over other neighborhoods in Istanbul.
Advantages
- Peaceful ambiance with less crowded streets
- Access to Bosphorus with scenic views and seaside activities
- Historic architecture with beautiful old Ottoman houses
Disadvantages
- Limited public transportation
- High rents and house prices
Recommended Hotels in Arnavutköy Neighborhood
| YOTEL Istanbul | Airport hotel | Located directly in the airport, landside and airside rooms, free Wi-Fi |
| Heaven Premium Hotel | Budget-friendly, 3-star hotel | Comfortable rooms, mountain views, room service, and proximity to the airport |
| Meshk Airport Hotel | Mid-range | Lounge, garden, convenient airport access |
Sarıyer, a Beautiful Place Among Istanbul Neighborhoods
This region is one of the closest to the sea, which adds to its allure. Fishing is a popular pastime in this area, although most businesses and consulates are now situated there. Apart from these business spaces, it is worth noting that there are many luxury residences and villas in Sarıyer, Istanbul, and theaters that are just beautiful to look at. The confluence of these variables has affected and enhanced tourism in this area.
Other places to visit in Sarıyer neighborhoods include Amirgan Park, which has beautiful flowering areas; Tarbia Beach; Istineh Beach, which has cafes and restaurants; and a nearby park. All of these attractions are placed in the Sarıyer region to add to the region’s charms and make it more appealing to tourists.
Advantages
- Full of natural green spaces
- Peaceful and quiet residential area
- High-quality educational and healthcare facilities
Disadvantages
- Far from the city center
- Limited public transportation
Recommended Hotels in Sarıyer Neighborhood
| The Grand Tarabya Hotel | 5-star luxury hotel | Stunning sea views, full-service spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, several dining options |
| Radisson Collection Hotel | Modern luxury hotel | Nearby forest views, well-designed rooms, restaurant, fitness center |
| Fuat Paşa Mansion | Historic mansion hotel | Housed in a restored Ottoman mansion, waterfront views, luxurious rooms, an on-site restaurant |
Best Neighborhoods in Istanbul to Live
In this part, we will only discuss the best Istanbul neighborhoods to live in. Some areas are among the top Istanbul neighborhoods to stay in. However, they’re ideal destinations for tourists. We will ignore those types. For instance, Sultanahmet is among the most popular neighborhoods in Istanbul. But it’s mostly crowded with tourists, making it a less appealing option for those who are looking for a peaceful environment to live in.
- Sarıyer
This neighborhood is known for its calm and serene atmosphere. It is the ideal area for families looking for a peaceful environment to raise their kids. It has high-quality educational and healthcare facilities. Besides, Sarıyer is full of green spaces, lush parks, and fantastic Bosphorus views.
Sarıyer is located on the northeastern European side of Istanbul. Although a bit far from the city center, you’ll escape the unending traffic and noisy streets by living in this area.
- Üsküdar
This neighborhood would be another ideal place for families planning to move to Istanbul. Üsküdar is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, which gives it a more traditional lifestyle. However, more traditional means a slower life pace. That’s why it fits families looking to settle down.
Furthermore, Üsküdar is right beside the Bosphorus strait, which offers scenic waterfront views. It hosts some of Istabul’s best historical sites. And lastly, it offers modern amenities.
- Büyükçekmece
This place is also one of the best areas to live in Istanbul with family. Büyükçekmece is part of the greater Istanbul districts. In other words, it is far from the city center, located on the western European side of Istanbul. However, it makes it more affordable for those of you who are on a limited budget.
Moreover, Büyükçekmece is full of parks, beaches, and spacious apartments. It is a quiet neighborhood with less crowded streets.
- Kadıköy
Many of the people who are looking for a house in Istanbul are students and young adults hoping to make a fortune in this bustling city. One of the best Istanbul neighborhoods to live for these people is Kadıköy. Located on the south of the Asian side of Istanbul, Kadıköy has a lively environment with a busy nightlife. It also has a bohemian vibe made of a young community of people.
- Nişantaşı
If housing prices aren’t a problem for you, why not live in Nişantaşı? This neighborhood is a luxurious area located on the European side of Istanbul. It also has convenient access to Istanbul’s landmarks like the Taksim Square. And if that’s not enough, Nişantaşı is regarded as one of the safest neighborhoods in Istanbul.
Here, you can explore Istanbul’s high-end shopping centers and dining options. Nişantaşı will give you the truly modern and urban lifestyle of Istanbul.
Best Neighborhoods in Istanbul for Tourists
For this part, we will only focus on areas suitable for tourists. Are you traveling to Istanbul but are overwhelmed by the high number of hotels? Check out these best neighborhoods in Istanbul for tourists. Book a hotel room in one of these areas.
- Sultanahmet
All the iconic landmarks of Istanbul are gathered in this neighborhood. To name a few, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern are some of these icons. Every tourist should dedicate a major part of their Istanbul trip to visit these must-see attractions. So, why not make the process easier by staying in a nearby hotel?
Sultanahmet is also The best area to stay in Istanbul for the first time. You’ll immediately immerse yourself in the rich history of Istanbul. And it’s not just the historical sites. The old atmosphere, historic architecture, and traditional Turkish restaurants are also why Sultanahmet is ideal for tourists.
- Taksim
Taksim is the beating heart of Istanbul. This neighborhood has many bars, restaurants, and shopping centers. What does it mean for tourists? A lively and vibrant neighborhood full of cultural and new experiences. Apart from that, you can be in the middle of Istanbul’s nightlife.
Taksim Square is a major attraction for tourists. 19th century buildings, shopping centers, and art galleries are why this square is a popular destination. Besides, it has easy access to other parts of the city via Istanbul’s central metro station. Staying in one of Taksim’s hotels makes exploring Istanbul much easier.
- Galata
Surrounding the Galata Tower, this area is another one of the best neighborhoods in Istanbul for tourists. It’s a charming neighborhood with an old atmosphere and lively urban life. Its narrow streets will take you to the traditional lifestyle of Istanbul. However, they are mixed with a modern and artsy ambiance. These streets can lead you to a jazz cafe, an art gallery, or a bohemian-vibe boutique.
Galata gives you the perfect blend of Istanbul’s history with a Westernized environment. It’s the perfect spot for couples, photographers, and art lovers.
- Beşiktaş
This area is perfect for those tourists who want a modern neighborhood in Istanbul to stay. Beşiktaş, located on the European side of Istanbul, has really good access to Bosphorus and other areas of Istanbul. It is the perfect place for seaside activities. It has many scenic parks and restaurants. Besides, the lively atmosphere makes up for a memorable night in Istanbul. You can get on a Bosphorus boat ride or visit a local bar.
- Üsküdar
The Asian side of Üsküdar is another exciting Istanbul neighborhood for tourists. Üsküdar will offer an authentic aspect of the history and culture of Istanbul. However, it is less crowded than other famous tourist areas like Sultanahmet. Therefore, choosing this neighborhood to stay in will make you look like an Istanbul traveler veteran.
Moreover, it offers scenic seaside areas along with historic sites. You’ll find many charming historic mosques as Istanbul’s extra bonuses that enrich every traveler’s experience of the city.
Last Word
Istanbul is a cosmopolitan city with a rich and diverse history and culture. It’s easy to get lost in this megacity. That’s why it’s essential to know a bit about Istanbul neighborhoods. Whether you are planning to live there or have a vacation in the city, it’s helpful to recognize the best neighborhoods in Istanbul.
Now that you’ve gained a general knowledge of top Istanbul neighborhoods, you can make a more informed decision on where to stay in Istanbul. Book your hotel room in an area you love the most to visit. Or invest in neighborhoods that best match your preferences.
Lastly, we covered the most popular neighborhoods in Istanbul. However, this vast city has a lot more than this. Take some time to explore the city yourself. Get a car, preferably, and visit each of these neighborhoods.
FAQ
What is the nicest area in Istanbul?
These are the nice areas in Istanbul for their peaceful environment, upscale neighborhoods, and historical landmarks:
- Sultanahmet
- Taksim
- Nişantaşı
- Beşiktaş and Ortaköy
Where do the rich live in Istanbul?
The most expensive and luxury neighborhoods in Istanbul include:
- Bebek
- Uskudar
- Nisantasi
- Levent
These are the posh neighborhoods in Istanbul.
Where do most foreigners live in Istanbul?
What are the best neighborhoods in Istanbul Asian side?
The best neighborhoods in Istanbul Asian side include Kadıköy, Üsküdar, Ataşehir, Acıbadem, and Moda. They are among the top Istanbul neighborhoods because of their good location, unique characteristics, and rich cultural hubs, making them an ideal destination for tourists and residents.
What is the best area to stay in Istanbul for the first time?
The best area to stay in Istanbul for the first time is Sultanahmet. This old neighborhood hosts many iconic Istanbul landmarks, such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace. Besides, it’s in the heart of Istanbul’s history and culture.
