Accommodation

With new hotels opening on a seemingly daily basis, it’s nearly always possible to find a decent room with a modicum of advance planning. Be aware, however, that during major conferences and international events (such as the Formula 1 Grand Prix) prices in many establishments will be higher and the choice less. Where you stay depends on your interests. For nightlife head across the Golden Horn to Beyoğlu, to be on the doorstep of the major historical sites it makes more sense to base yourself in or around Sultanahmet. Virtually all but the most basic İstanbul hotels have wi-fi.

Many hotels offer discounts for cash or booking through their website, though some, fed-up with “no-show” internet bookers, require payment upfront – which means you’re stuck with the room even if on arrival you find it doesn’t match up to your expectations. Hotels in the major tourist and business areas tend to quote in euros, smaller hotels still use the TL, but all should accept payment in either currency.

Some of the city’s best small hotels, pansiyons and hostels are in Sultanahmet, the historic heart of touristic İstanbul, within a few minutes’ walk of the Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace and Aya Sofya.