2021 Latest Travel Guide to Istanbul: In-Depth Accommodation Chapter

Istanbul is a city worth exploring in depth, a blend of ancient and modern, and the only city spanning both the European and Asian continents. It is divided into three districts: the Old City and Beyoğlu commercial area in Europe, and the Üsküdar district in Asia. With its beautiful scenery, numerous historical sites, convenient transportation, and thriving commerce, Istanbul is a world-renowned tourist destination. To truly experience the city, it is recommended to stay for at least a week to slowly appreciate its unique charm. Major attractions include: Sultanahmet Mosque (commonly known as the Blue Mosque), Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Galata Tower, Dolmabahçe Palace, Maiden's Tower, and various museums. The list of attractions is not exhaustive here, as there are many online guides and travelogues for each site.

Now, back to the main topic. As requested by many, this edition will focus on my personal accommodation experience during an in-depth exploration of Istanbul's old city (there are also many online recommendations). The emphasis is on homestays, and I will recommend accommodation areas.

If you prefer hotels, you can book internationally recognized chain hotels on major apps—they will never disappoint, with rich breakfast options, such as Hilton, Marriott, RAMADA, and so on. Choose your preferred location and area, and place your order in advance.

If you prefer homestays, you can download the Airbnb app, which offers many options. You can choose a style that suits your itinerary, though there aren't as many choices as in China. Based on my personal experience, I recommend homestay areas near various attractions, so you can choose according to your preferred style when booking.

1. Blue Mosque Area. You can visit Sultanahmet Mosque (under renovation during the pandemic), Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern (also under renovation), the Grand Bazaar, and the old street along the tram line.

A) If you like bustling areas, choose chain hotels along the tram line. You can directly experience the flow of people and vehicles along the old street, which is a commercial street with everything—dining, entertainment, shopping—all at your fingertips. See the map area below.

B) If you want to experience local-style homestays, refer to the map below. These are great choices—typical Turkish-style small townhouses, many with rooftop garden restaurants, some facing the sea, others directly overlooking the mosque, each with its own character, and quite quiet. The location is excellent, close to the scenic spots: a 5-minute walk to Hagia Sophia, less than 10 minutes to the seaside, and convenient transportation. Taxis are always available downstairs, and it's less than a 10-minute walk to the tram station. You can also take public ferries from the dock (though with fewer sailings) or charter a boat for a sea outing.

There is also a commercial street downstairs behind Hagia Sophia, mainly selling specialty souvenirs, small items, gifts, etc. There are also two food streets, mostly local restaurants, desserts, and coffee. There is a Chinese restaurant nearby. Prices are quite transparent and not too expensive.

C) If you like seafood, refer to the map below. However, it is a bit farther from the main attractions—about a 15-minute walk to the Blue Mosque. But it's closer to the seaside (less than a 10-minute walk), with a large public ferry dock where you can take a boat for longer trips. There is also a seafood market nearby. Buy whatever seafood you like, and have it processed at the seaside restaurant right next to it. The price is reasonable, and most dishes are cooked in Turkish style: grilled, fried, then seasoned with various spices—a mix of five flavors. Of course, you can also discuss with the restaurant owner in advance to indicate your dislikes, or even cook yourself to make dishes to your taste. In the evening, you can also rent a fishing rod at the dock for sea fishing or watch the sunset over the sea.

2. If you stay near the Galata Tower area. This area covers Galata Tower, Istiklal Street, Dolmabahçe Palace, Maiden's Tower, various museums, and the Bosphorus Bridge.

Note: Avoid choosing accommodations in the middle of this district, as mentioned in a previous travelogue.

A) You can choose chain hotels on Istiklal Street, as shown in the map above. You can go shopping on Istiklal Street anytime, experience the famous nostalgic tram, and enjoy endless Turkish cuisine and desserts. There is also a Chinese restaurant in the middle of Istiklal Street. If you like shopping and eating, this area is a good choice, as there are many international brand stores with discounts and century-old dessert shops.

B) You can choose hotels along the Golden Horn, as shown in the map below. You can visit many museums here, including the Rahmi M. Koç Museum, and watch the sunset in the evening. You can also take public ferries for transportation. Go to the old city on the opposite side for a cup of Turkish tea or take a Bosphorus cruise. You can also take the express line to farther places.

C) You can also choose homestays or hotels near the T1 tram line, as shown in the map below. You can travel by tram or take public ferries from the dock to visit scenic spots along the Bosphorus, such as the Asian side, and see Maiden's Tower on the sea. There are many authentic Turkish local restaurants and dessert shops near the dock. In the evening, you can rent a fishing rod at Galata Bridge or the dock for sea fishing and watch the sunset. You can also visit Dolmabahçe Palace to experience the former greatness of the Ottoman Empire—the exquisite interior decorations will surely amaze you. Note: Photography is not allowed inside; you must follow the staff's instructions.

The above is a sharing of accommodation options near the main attractions in Istanbul's old city. I personally recommend staying 3 days and 2 nights in each area, or you can choose a fixed base and stay consecutively. Try to choose accommodations near the seaside or main roads, so you can freely go to the seaside to watch the sunset, take a walk, fish, or pet stray cats.

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