Istanbul offers tourists from all over the world a unique and unforgettable experience. As the most populous city in Turkey, Istanbul has a vibrant culture and an exciting nightlife. It has something for everyone: ancient architecture, incredible museums, culinary delights, and a wide range of shopping options. If you do decide to visit Istanbul, one of the important decisions that you will need to make is where to stay. Istanbul is divided into two main tourist districts: Taksim and Sultanahmet.
Advantages of Taksim
Taksim Square is the city’s most lively and vibrant area. It is the center of business, culture, and entertainment in Istanbul. Tourists often prefer to stay in Taksim because it offers easy access to the city’s best restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Taksim is also more aesthetically pleasing than other parts of the city, with its wide pedestrian boulevards, tall buildings, and picturesque gardens. As a result, visitors can have an all-round enjoyable stay in this area.
Most visitors who choose to stay in Taksim also choose luxury hotels or tourist apartments, which tend to be more expensive than other areas of the city. However, there are plenty of budget options, too.
Advantages of Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet is home to many of Istanbul’s most iconic monuments, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Topkapi Palace. This area is quieter and more peaceful than Taksim, offering an entirely different experience. It also provides easy access to attractions such as the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar.
There are plenty of accommodation options in Sultanahmet. Many hotels in this area are pricey, though there are some cheaper alternatives. Hostels and guesthouses offer great budget accommodation and provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Which One to Choose?
It really depends on the type of experience you are looking for. If you are looking for luxury, convenience, and vibrancy, then Taksim is the perfect choice. For those who want to explore the city’s historical sites and immerse themselves in the local culture, Sultanahmet may be a better choice.
Regardless of which area you choose, Istanbul offers something for everyone. With its plethora of attractions, great cuisine, and friendly people, Istanbul is a great destination. Choose one of the two areas and you will have a memorable stay in this dynamic city.
Best Time of Year to Visit Istanbul
The best time to visit Istanbul is in the spring or fall. During this time, the weather in Istanbul is warmer and milder, and there are fewer tourists. Winter in Istanbul can be quite gray and cold, though snow is not very common. Summers in Istanbul can be scorching and humid, so it is not the best time to visit.
When visiting Istanbul, you should also take into account that it is a Muslim city. During the holy month of Ramadan, many restaurants and stores may be closed, so it may be difficult to find food or shopping options.
Best Hotels in Taksim
Taksim has some of the best luxury hotels in Istanbul, including the W Istanbul, the Swissotel The Bosphorus, and The Marmara Taksim. There are also plenty of mid-range and budget options, such as Golden Horn Hotel Istanbul, Pera Palace Hotel, and Gloria Inn Istanbul.
Best Hotels in Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet is home to some of the oldest and most iconic hotels in Istanbul. The Four Seasons Sultanahmet is one of the best hotels in the area, offering luxurious rooms and suites with views of the iconic Blue Mosque. Other luxury options include The Marmara Sultanahmet and The Aramis Hotel. Budget options such as the Mavi Ev and Hotel Zeytin are also popular.
Getting Around Istanbul
Public transportation in Istanbul is very reliable and efficient. The city has an extensive metro system, buses, trams, and even sea buses. Taxis are also a popular choice, as they are cheaper than in many other parts of the world. You can hail a taxi on the street or book one in advance.
If you are staying in Taksim or Sultanahmet, you can easily get around on foot. Both areas are very walkable and offer easy access to the rest of the city. However, it’s important to be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas, such as Istiklal Avenue in Taksim.
Must-Visit Attractions in Istanbul
Istanbul is home to a plethora of attractions. The Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are two of the city’s most iconic landmarks and are well worth a visit. The Topkapi Palace is another must-see, as is the Galata Tower. In Sultanahmet, you can visit the Basilica Cistern, and in Taksim, there is the Dolmabahce Palace. Make sure to also visit the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar, where you can find a wide range of goods.
Istanbul also offers plenty of culinary delights. From delicious street food to fine-dining restaurants, Istanbul has something for every palate. The city also has a vibrant nightlife, with bars, nightclubs, and live music venues.
Shopping in Istanbul
Istanbul is a shopper’s paradise. From the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar to the bustling streets around Taksim and Sultanahmet, there are plenty of places to shop. Istanbul is a great place to buy souvenirs, Turkish carpets, jewelry, leather goods, and antiques.
One of the most popular shopping areas in Istanbul is Istiklal Avenue. Here, you will find an array of shops, ranging from designer labels to art galleries to souvenir shops. For more upscale shopping, you can head to Nisantasi, where you’ll find designer boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
