Find hotels in Istanbul from CA $28

Top reasons to visit Istanbul

• Cultural Fusion: Istanbul uniquely blends its rich history with modern vibrancy, offering a captivating mix of ancient landmarks and contemporary attractions.
• Iconic Landmarks: Visit stunning mosques, historic churches, and the breathtaking Bosphorus, all of which showcase the city's architectural beauty.
• Shopping Experience: Explore vibrant shopping centres and local markets, perfect for unique souvenirs and traditional crafts.
• Turkish Hammam: Enjoy a rejuvenating experience in a traditional Turkish hammam, a must-do for relaxation.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, catering to all traveller preferences.

Find great hotels in Istanbul

Istanbul and its surrounding areas boast a diverse selection of accommodations, from luxurious five-star hotels to budget-friendly two-star guesthouses. Whether you're seeking a business-friendly environment, a rejuvenating spa retreat, or a family-friendly getaway, you'll find options to meet your preferences. With so many great hotels in Istanbul, you're sure to discover the perfect spot to relax and explore this magnificent city.

• Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class: This 4-star hotel is a family-friendly oasis nestled in the heart of Istanbul. With its rich historical décor, Sultanhan Hotel offers a unique blend of tradition and modern comfort, making it an ideal choice for families, business travellers, and city explorers alike. The hotel features a dedicated Children's Club and various amenities such as window guards, dinnerware, and babysitting services to cater to families with young ones. Its central location ensures easy access to Istanbul’s vibrant attractions, providing guests with an authentic city experience.
• Hilton Istanbul Bomonti Hotel & Conference Center: A luxurious 5-star property, this hotel is perfect for families seeking comfort and elegance in the bustling city of Istanbul. Hilton Istanbul Bomonti boasts exceptional amenities, including a children's pool and complimentary cribs, ensuring a welcoming environment for families. The hotel's state-of-the-art conference facilities cater to business travellers, while its prime location in the city centre makes it a strategic base for exploring nearby attractions. Guests can also enjoy a range of dining options and a relaxing atmosphere that elevates their stay.
• Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul: This 5-star hotel redefines luxury with its expansive spa services and pet-friendly policy, making it a top choice for families and pampered pets alike. Nestled along the Bosphorus, Swissotel offers stunning views and features such as a children's playground, babysitting services, and spacious rooms designed for comfort. The on-site spa provides an array of treatments and relaxation therapies, while the hotel's prime location allows easy exploration of Istanbul’s rich culture. This accommodation perfectly combines family-friendly amenities with indulgent luxury.

Where to stay in Istanbul

Discover the vibrant tapestry of Istanbul, where the historic charm of Old Istanbul meets the modern buzz of Taksim. Immerse yourself in Turkish hospitality as you explore the city's luxurious accommodations and family-friendly neighbourhoods. From the bustling heart of the metropolis to the serene outskirts, Istanbul offers a rich cultural experience for every traveller. Whether you're drawn to its historical sites or lively atmosphere, this captivating city promises unforgettable moments.

• Sultanahmet: Nestled in the heart of Istanbul, Sultanahmet is a historic district that draws visitors from around the globe. Known as the cradle of Turkish culture, it boasts iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. The area is a cultural hub, where you can explore vibrant public markets and indulge in shopping at local boutiques. Sultanahmet's charm lies in its rich history, making it a prime destination for those interested in culture and city life. While the number of travelers remains steady throughout the year, peak seasons in March, July, and September bring a lively atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
• Taksim: Taksim is the bustling heart of modern Istanbul, known for its vibrant streets and dynamic atmosphere. This district is a blend of contemporary culture and historic significance, featuring the famous Taksim Square and the iconic Istiklal Avenue, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. A hotspot for both locals and tourists alike, Taksim offers a fantastic shopping experience, with everything from high-end fashion to local artisan goods. The area is lively year-round, with visitor numbers peaking from August to October, making it an ideal spot to experience the pulse of the city.
• Adalar: The picturesque islands of Adalar offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul. Known as an archipelago, Adalar is perfect for those seeking a beach getaway, outdoor adventures, and charming city experiences. With stunning beaches and lush landscapes, visitors can enjoy leisurely bike rides or horse-drawn carriage tours. Local attractions include quaint shopping areas and peaceful places of worship, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty. The peak tourist season from June to August ensures a lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit for a relaxing day trip.

Things to do in Istanbul

Istanbul offers a rich blend of culture and city experiences, making it a fantastic vacation spot. Explore the vibrant shopping centres and outlet malls, enjoy lovely days sightseeing iconic landmarks, and indulge in a traditional Turkish hammam experience. Whether you're wandering through bustling shopping areas or relaxing in a hammam, Istanbul promises a memorable getaway filled with diverse activities and cultural immersion.

Shopping

Istanbul is a shopper's paradise! Start at the Grand Bazaar for unique souvenirs, then explore the Mall of Istanbul for family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, check out Akbatı Shopping Mall for a blend of shopping, entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Recreation

At Vodafone Park, immerse yourself in the excitement of sports while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Experience the grandeur of Ataturk Olympic Stadium, where athletic energy thrives. For a tranquil escape, visit Cilingoz Nature Park, a serene haven perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature's beauty.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of racing at Firuzkoy Karting, where adrenaline meets speed in a vibrant atmosphere. For motorsport enthusiasts, Istanbul Park offers exhilarating motor racing events surrounded by stunning scenery. Meanwhile, Aqua Club Dolphin provides a fun-filled waterpark experience, perfect for families seeking adventure and entertainment.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Istanbul at Tiyatro Istanbul and Idil Abla Cocuk Tiyatrosu, where culture and romance meet family entertainment. For a fun-filled adventure, visit Babalu Park, an arcade adventure zone perfect for family vibes and excitement.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Istanbul

When visiting Istanbul, take advantage of free attractions like Taksim Square, the Blue Mosque, and the Bosphorus Bridge. For affordable transportation, utilize the Metro, tram, bus, and ferry. Plan your trip between January and March for lower prices, with Tuesdays being the cheapest days to stay. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels and consider package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. By filtering for eco-certified options, you can also find sustainable accommodations that fit your budget.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Istanbul are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Istanbul is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Istanbul is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search feature enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results by price, starting with the most affordable options, so you can easily find the best deals on hotels. Additionally, you have the opportunity to refine your search by hotel category; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Istanbul with flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Istanbul

Istanbul and its surroundings offer a rich blend of cultural, urban, and outdoor experiences, making it an ideal destination for various types of vacations. Visitors can explore stunning mosques, beautiful beaches, and historic churches. Don't miss a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Bosphorus, which adds a unique charm to your journey. Whether you're seeking culture or adventure, Istanbul has something for everyone.

• Taksim Square: Experience the vibrant heart of Istanbul at Taksim Square, where the buzz of city life meets cultural significance. This bustling hub is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and historical sites, making it a perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the local atmosphere.
• Hagia Sophia: Step into history at Hagia Sophia, a magnificent architectural marvel that has served as a cathedral and mosque. Its stunning mosaics and vast dome reflect the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul, offering a profound insight into the city’s past.
• Blue Mosque: Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Mosque, renowned for its striking blue tiles and impressive architecture. This active mosque invites visitors to appreciate its serene ambiance and the harmonious blend of spiritual and artistic heritage.

Best time to go to Istanbul

Visitor numbers in Istanbul is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Istanbul can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Istanbul falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Istanbul falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	77.4°F (25.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	72.3°F (22.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
November	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Istanbul

When visiting Istanbul, you'll have access to two major airports. Istanbul Airport (IST) is situated approximately 33.8km from the city centre. Notable hotels nearby include the Park Inn by Radisson Istanbul Airport Odayeri, 9.7km away, and the Kemer Country Hotel, located 16.1km from IST, which offers a range of transportation services. YOTEL Istanbul Airport, only 322m from IST, provides convenient access. Alternatively, Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) lies about 30.6km from the city, with excellent nearby options like the 5-star Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, just 3.2km away, and Miracle Istanbul Asia Airport Hotel & Spa, also 3.2km from SAW.