First Time in Istanbul: Sultanahmet, Taksim, Aksaray or Sirkeci – Where Should You Stay?

Istanbul is huge, but most first-time visitors end up in one of four central areas. Each has its own character, and all four are on the European side.

Sultanahmet – the old city

Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace and the Basilica Cistern are all within walking distance. Hotels here range from small family-run guesthouses to boutique hotels in old wooden houses. Streets are quiet at night, which suits travellers who want to rest. Some streets are narrow or pedestrian-only; your driver will take you as close to the door as the street allows.

Taksim and Beyoğlu – the modern centre

Around Taksim Square and İstiklal Avenue you find shops, restaurants, nightlife and many larger hotels. Galata Tower and Karaköy are a pleasant walk downhill. It is lively until late, so ask for a room away from the street if you are a light sleeper.

Aksaray and Laleli – practical and central

Between the old city and the western districts, Aksaray and Laleli are busy commercial areas with many mid-range hotels and good tram and metro connections. Several clinics and their partner hotels are in this part of Fatih.

Sirkeci – by the water

Sirkeci sits next to Eminönü and the ferry piers on the Golden Horn. From here you can walk to the Spice Bazaar, take a Bosphorus ferry or reach Sultanahmet in ten minutes uphill.

Getting there from the airport

All four areas are a direct ride from Istanbul Airport, usually 45 to 70 minutes depending on traffic, and from Sabiha Gökçen about an hour or a little more. Our fixed fares for these routes start at the price shown in the booking form – enter your airport and choose the area to see it. More about our routes is on the services page.