15 Best Istanbul Boutique Hotels & Where to Stay in Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is a city of many wonders, and Istanbul boutique hotels are no exception. From luxurious accommodations overlooking the Bosporus to cozy hideaways tucked away in the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, there’s something for everyone. 

If you are planning a trip and wondering where to stay in Istanbul, read on to find the perfect neighborhood and hotel.

With so many options to choose from, it can be tough to decide which hotel is right for you. To help narrow things down, we’ve compiled a list of the best Istanbul boutique hotels.

Whether you’re looking for 5-star luxury or a more intimate experience, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay on your next trip to Turkey’s largest city.

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Planning Your Trip to Turkey Last Minute?

If you are trying to pull together your trip quickly, here is a quick reference guide to the tours we recommend, along with practical travel information in addition to the best hotels in Istanbul below.

You can also get more detailed information with our Ultimate 7 Day Turkey Itinerary, tips on What to Wear in Turkey & Packing List, and the Best Cave Hotels in Cappadocia.

• TOP EXPERIENCES & TOURS IN ISTANBUL
  • Istanbul private city tour – top private day tour tour in Istanbul
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Music – one of the most memorable experiences in Istanbul
  • Whirling Dervish Show – #1 show in Istanbul
  • From Istanbul: 2-Day Trip to Cappadocia with Flights – fully organized tour to Cappadocia
• PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR TURKEY
  • Visa for Turkey
  • A Turkey plug adapter and a step down voltage converter for anything that’s not dual voltage.

Where to Stay in Istanbul – The Best Neighborhoods

Istanbul has the interesting distinction of having half the city in Europe and the other half in Asia. The top tourist attractions of Istanbul are concentrated in the European side.

Some of the best places to stay in Istanbul are in the old town of Sultanahmet or the neighboring Beyoğlu right near incredible Turkey landmarks.

For the best Istanbul hotels with a sea view, choose one of the hotels along the Bosphorus Strait. Plus, spending time on the Bosphorous is a top thing to do on your Istanbul itinerary.

The best view hotels in Istanbul also have a great rooftop area. We’ve included many view hotels in this list.

If you want to stay there longer and escape from the crowds of travelers and get to know authentic Istanbul, you should go to Kadıkoy, an Asian neighborhood full of antique shops and hipster joints. 

Nisantasi is another area that is very popular and well located if you like being near shopping and nightlife.

Best Time to Visit Istanbul

Istanbul is a city that is always bustling with activity, but there are certain times of year when it is particularly vibrant. The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring or fall.

The weather is mild at these times of year, making it ideal for exploring the city’s many parks and monuments.

• SPRING – Temperatures warm up in spring during the day and stay a little chilly in the evening. Istanbul is one of the best places to visit in Europe in April with millions of tulips blooming during the Tulip Festival.
• SUMMER – With temperatures in the 80s and humid in Istanbul during the summer, locals head to the beaches and tourism is at a high There are fun music festivals that take place and an evening cruise on the Bosphorus is ideal.
• FALL – The crowds lessen and the weather is pretty great in September and October. The shoulder season is one of the best times to visit.
• WINTER – If you don’t mind some rainy cold days, hotel rates are a deal and tourists are at a minimum. December is a great time for foodies to visit Istanbul. The International Food Festival with 2,000 chefs from 30 countries compete

15 Best Istanbul Boutique Hotels

Do you love stylish hotels that reflect the city? Istanbul is famous for its wide variety of hotels and we’ve compiled a list of the most exciting Istanbul boutique hotels. Whether you look for luxury, modern design, vintage, or inexpensive accommodations – everyone will find many Istanbul hotels to their liking.

Our criteria in choosing the best boutique hotels in Istanbul were hotels that combine unique design, have the best guest reviews, and a convenient location. We primarily focused on hotels with less than 100 rooms for a more intimate experience.

Additionally we searched for great restaurants, and valuable extras like a rooftop bar or an intriguing view of the city or the bay. Lastly, we know you want to stay connected and every hotel on this list has Free WiFi and transportation options to Istanbul Airport.

Soho House Istanbul

Soho House Istanbul (8.9) is a boutique hotel that caters to the city’s chicest crowds. Located in the creative Beyoglu district, this hotel features 3 buildings, including the palatial home of a former Genoese merchant. There are two rooftop pools with a cocktail bar, live music and DJS. There are also multiple restaurants including Cecconi’s with traditional Italian dishes.

The hotel’s rooms are beautifully appointed, and its rooftop bar offers breathtaking views of the Golden Horn. But what really sets Soho House Istanbul apart from other hotels is its staff. The concierge team is knowledgeable and efficient, and the staff members are always willing to go the extra mile to make sure that guests have a wonderful stay.

Not to be missed, the Cowshed Spa offers numerous spa treatments and traditional hammam while the Soho Health Club offers everything from classes to a boxing ring. Soho House Istanbul is one of the most unique hotels in Istanbul.

• What guests like most: Stunning design of the whole hotel, restaurant with great food, brilliant service
• Considerations: Light sleepers might want to choose a room outside of the new glass block.
• Closest Attractions: Galata Tower, Istiklal Street, Taksim Square, Sishane Metro Station

Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus

The Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul (9.3) is an incredible hotel located on the water. The rooms are spacious and air-conditioned, with contemporary design and views of the courtyard, garden or Bosphorus. Some of the views from the Bosphorus Suites are to die for! Each room also has a separate seating area, TV, a balcony and bathroom with a bidet.

The hotel’s outdoor swimming pool is picture perfect. The fitness center is state-of-the-art, and the spa has a menu of treatments that are sure to soothe and revive you.

Multiple dining options range from an amazing restaurant Brunch to lunch at the Pool Bar, Afternoon tea at the Bosphorus Lounge or delicious East and West fusion cuisine at the Novikov Istanbul. Enjoy a drink in the bar. You won’t be disappointed with your stay at the Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus!

• What guests like most: The incredible attention to detail and service, insane Bosphorus views, and spacious rooms.
• Considerations: It may be one of the most expensive hotels in the city but guests feel it’s worth every penny.
• Closest Attractions: Bosphorus Strait

The Stay Nisantasi

The Stay Nisantasi (9.1) is steps away from the trendiest shopping and nightlife in the city. In fact, the hotel sits just above Prada in the Nisantasi district, which is known for its designer boutiques and amazing nightlife.

The hotel’s stunning decor perfectly fits its fashionable location. Air-conditioned rooms have a plush, modern feel, with comfortable beds, soothing muted tones and marble bathrooms. Suites also have large private terraces.

Common areas include a restaurant, library lounge bar and fitness center. If you’re looking to stay in style while visiting Istanbul, the Stay Nisantasi is a top choice for small luxury hotels.

• What guests like most: Comfortable rooms and the location in Istanbul’s most fashionable area.
• Considerations: The bathrooms are a little on the small side.
• Closest Attractions: Nisantasi area, Dolmabahce Palace, Dolmabahce Clock Tower, Taksim Square, Osmanbey Metro Station

Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul

The Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul (9.0) is one of the top luxury hotels in Istanbul. A recent multimillion dollar restoration of this 19th century Ottoman Palace created a lavish escape from the city with amazing attention to detail. It feels like a respite from the outside world with gardens, a large pool and gorgeous view of the Bosphorus Strait.

Every beautifully appointed room has a balcony or floor-to-ceiling windows with views of gardens or the sea. There is an extensive selection of dining options on the property. Have breakfast on the terrace, afternoon tea at the Gazebo Lounge, fine dining at Tugra Restaurant or drinks at Le Fumoir Bar.

And if you’re looking to relax, their spa includes a Turkish bath, many types of massage, sauna, steam room, indoor pool and fitness center. So whether you’re looking for luxury, relaxation or both, the Cıragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul has you covered.

• What guests like most: Luxurious design, fantastic breakfast, Bosphorus view, calm atmosphere.
• Considerations: It’s one of the more expensive places to stay but very luxurious.
• Closest Attractions: Marmara Sea, Dolmabahce Palace, Ortaköy Mosque

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

One of the most exciting hotels on the list with an interesting history is the Four Seasons Istanbul at Sultanahmet (9.5). Located in a former prison building, and now restored, the hotel emits elegance and sophistication. 

The hotel is very well located, in the heart of the old city Sultanahmet, within 10 minutes of the major tourist attractions. The rooftop overlooks the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, making it the perfect place to take in the sunset.

As you would expect from the Four Seasons, guests describe the staff as exceptionally attentive. They are always one step ahead of your needs and will leave little treats for you in your room. 

The design of the Four Seasons is a modern, relaxed luxury. The rooms are optimal size, exceptionally clean, and neat. They have very comfortable beds and pillows, and the bathrooms are large and elegantly finished. 

• What guests like most: Attentive staff, great location, lovely garden and rooftop.
• Considerations: Guests wish there was a pool.
• Closest Attractions: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Sea of Marmara, Spice Bazaar

Adahan DeCamondo Pera, Autograph Collection

One of the best hotels in Istanbul is the Adahan DeCamondo Pera, Autograph Collection (9.8). It is a hotel with a stylish design both outside the building and inside. It’s also thankfully close to everything.

The hotel rooms are large and spacious. Beautiful building materials throughout highlight the decor. The uniquely designed spaces can be plain white, terracotta or vintage worn – it’s quite beautiful. Many guests leave reviews with photos showcasing their distinctive room.

The restaurant, located on the 4th floor, is noted by almost every guest for its delicious food and superb views of Galata tower, Hagia Sophia, and Blue Mosque, all in one picture perfect glance.

• What guests like most: It’s very close to the most popular places and the unique interior design for each room.
• Considerations: As a new hotel, they are working diligently to have great service.
• Closest Attractions: Pera Museum, Galata Tower, Istiklal Street, Taksim Square, Spice Bazaar

Hotel DeCamondo Galata 

If you want a relaxing stay in a chic hotel near the center, the Hotel DeCamondo Galata (9.6) is a great choice. This historic building is 200 meters from Galata Tower and a two-minute walk from the water.

The rooms in the hotel have a unique, artistic, loft-style design. Brick, wood, and concrete materials are stylishly pulled together with art and beautiful furnishings. Available rooms range from a standard double to a larger king studio.

The restaurant is on the roof, and there are tables in the open area and a glass room providing amazing views of the Bosphorus. The cuisine is exquisite, with many vegan items and traditional Turkish dishes. There are also plenty of restaurants that you can walk to in the nearby area.

• What guests like most: The service is top-notch, the boutique hotel feel, and excellent value for the money.
• Considerations: The area around the hotel sometimes is under renovation. Ask for a room further away.
• Closest Attractions: Galata Tower, Spice Bazaar, Istiklal Street, Karakoy Ferry Port

World House Boutique Hotel 

The World House Boutique Hotel (9.5) in Istanbul is a true gem. It is a stylish hotel with modern decor, wood floors, brick walls and artistic colorful bathrooms. The large windows and balconies have fantastic city and sea views. The high end linens and L’Occitane products are a perfect accompaniment to the overall comfort of the space.

Located in a historic neighborhood with popular restaurants, art galleries, and shops, it is walking distance to many museums and attractions.

There is a coffee shop on the first floor that is known for it’s excellent coffee and the delicious food. The lack of interior restaurant is not a big problem with some many great places to eat nearby.

• What guests like most: Friendly staff aims to please; the coffee shop with great coffee and snacks, stylish rooms
• Considerations: It can be noisy outside, there is no elevator but they will carry your bags, and no hotel restaurant.
• Closest Attractions: Galata Tower, Spice Bazaar, Istiklal Street, Taksim Square, Sishane Metro Station

The Bank Hotel Istanbul, a Member of Design Hotel

Another hotel with a very intriguing history is The Bank Hotel Istanbul (9.0). As you can guess from the name, there used to be a bank here, on a street in the old city financial center. Now the trendy Karakoy district is home to this beautifully restored building,

The lobby and common areas retain the old world elegance and stately feel of the bank. While areas like the bank vault have found new life as a wine cellar. Decorated in a soothing color palette, the room exude a sophisticated style accentuated by high ceilings, tall windows and contemporary art. The marble bathrooms include L’Occitane products.

There is an excellent rooftop restaurant with terrific views. There are also many wellness options at the spa including massages, facials, steam and sauna rooms, and a fitness center. 

• What guests like most: Attentive staff, beautiful high ceilings and the hotel smells great.
• Considerations: Some rooms are compact but the King rooms and suites are more spacious.
• Closest Attractions: Galata Tower, Tunnel Square, Spice Bazaar, Suleymaniye Mosque, Sishane Metro Station

Hotel Poem

Not many hotels have a panoramic window through which you can look out over the Bosphorus from bed or while taking a hot bath. It’s just one of the perks at Hotel Poem (9.6) with rooms that look like small penthouses. 

The artistic nod to famous writers, iconic characters and artists that had an interesting tie to Turkey are the inspiration for the decor of the rooms. All have either large windows, a balcony, or a large private terrace that create light filled spaces, some with incredible views of the Bosphorus. 

A huge breakfast is served each day for guests but there is not a full service restaurant on site. There are, however, many delicious restaurants nearby. The Sultanahmet location is incredibly convenient, making easy to pop out and go sightseeing.

• What guests like most: Huge rooms with private terraces.
• Considerations: While there is on a restaurant, a substantial breakfast is served and there are plenty of places to eat nearby.
• Closest Attractions: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Marmara sea

The Westist Hotel & Spa

Looking for a place to stay in Istanbul that’s hip and happening? Look no further than The Westist Hotel & Spa (8.8). This trendy boutique hotel is located in the Beyoğlu district, near Istiklal Street – one of the city’s most popular areas for shopping, dining and nightlife.

The hotel’s Pera Antakya Restaurant is a must-visit, serving up delicious Turkish food that always gets rave reviews. And whether you’re looking for a continental or à la carte breakfast, you’ll find it here. Other hotel amenities include a bar, shared lounge and garden.

All rooms are tastefully decorated in modern decor and come equipped with private bathrooms (with bidets), flat-screen TVs and air conditioning – perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring Istanbul. And don’t forget to make time for a visit to the hotel’s wellness area, which features a sauna.

• What guests liked most: friendly, helpful staff, amazing location, trendy design, restaurant is fantastic.
• Considerations: Rooms are on the small side and balconies may not be worth the extra expense for their size.
• Closest Attractions: Pera Museum, Museum of Innocence, Galata Tower, Istiklal Street, Sishane Metro Station

Ecole St. Pierre Hotel

Every building tells a story in Istanbul and Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (9.6) is no exception. In this case a former school building turned into an elegant hotel that retained some of the original 13th century brick walls. Set in the heart of the Galata district, it’s walking distance to many designer shops, restaurants and Galata Tower.

The spacious, well appointed rooms are decorated in muted tones with mid-century modern touches. Many of the rooms have balconies overlooking the courtyard with hotel’s restaurant. Others are facing the street with space to enjoy the outdoors.

The a la carte breakfasts are delightful, as is the restaurant itself.

• What guests like most: Ultra-fashionable modern design, incredible team, great breakfasts.
• Considerations: The rooms facing the courtyard are not as quiet as the others.
• Closest Attractions: Galata Tower, Spice Bazaar, Suleymaniye Mosque, Istiklal Street, Sishane Metro Station

Amiral Palace Hotel Boutique Class

Looking for a luxurious, yet authentic, stay in Istanbul? Then look no further than the Amiral Palace Hotel Boutique Class (9.1). This stunning hotel is located in the historical peninsula of Sultanahmet, close to all the main Istanbul attractions.

The palace rooms are a perfect mix of traditional and contemporary design, with elegant furnishings, air conditioning and flat-screen TVs.

The rooftop restaurant serves up regional dishes with panoramic views of Istanbul and the Marmara Sea. And of course, there’s the 24-hour room service. But that’s not all! The hotel also has a spa with fitness center, indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room, as well as a Turkish hammam.

• What guests like most: Excellent showers, exceptional cleanliness, nice pool and sauna
• Considerations: Standard rooms are small but you can choose a larger option, and there is no bar.
• Closest Attractions: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Marmara Sea

PeraNox Boutique Hotel

The PeraNox Boutique Hotel (9.0) is a hidden gem with only seven rooms and a fantastic location near Istiklal street. You’ll be just a few steps away from shops and restaurants but set away from the noise. It’s also conveniently located to the metro and Istanbul Museum of Modern Art.

The rooms are styled in vintage, modern decor and have beds that are comfy. While the rooms are somewhat small, they fit everything you need and are very affordable.

There is not a restaurant on the premises but there are plenty of food options nearby. Guests love the small terrace upstairs with a beautiful view to watch sunset.

• What guests like most: Stylish modern design; caring owner Volkan; this is a proper boutique hotel.
• Considerations: You will need the manager’s help to find the hotel the first time you check-in.
• Closest Attractions: Istiklal Street, Galata Tower, Marmara Sea, Spice Bazaar, Sishane Metro Station

Hotel Miniature – Ottoman Mansion

Hotel Miniature – Ottoman Mansion (9.3) is a one-of-a-kind hotel, located in a 139-year old historic building in the Sultanahmet district. It is less than a 5 minute walk from the Grand Bazaar and many other important sights.

The rooms at the Hotel Miniature feature original brick walls, high ceilings, flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, mini-bars, and marble bathrooms.

The hotel’s restaurant offers a traditional Turkish breakfast as well as an à la carte menu for lunch and dinner. They also serve Afternoon Tea service. Enjoy your meals in the indoor dining area or on the top floor terrace. With its convenient location and unique amenities, the Hotel Miniature is the perfect choice for your next stay in Istanbul.

• What guests like most: Attention from staff, convenient location, the price for the quality
• Considerations: The regular rooms are somewhat small.
• Closest Attractions: Cagaloglu Turkish Bath, Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia, Spice Bazaar, Sultanahmet Tram Station

Istanbul is a vibrant city with plenty of things to do and see. If you want to enjoy the best that the city has to offer, we highly recommend one of the Istanbul boutique hotels listed here. These properties are all centrally located and offer unique accommodations and services that will make your stay in Istanbul unforgettable.

Now that you know where to stay in Istanbul, make sure to book early, as these hotels tend to fill up quickly!