15 Amazing Luxury Hotels in Istanbul With a View
Planning to visit Istanbul and want to make your stay special? Why don’t you spoil yourself with one of the best hotels in Istanbul with a view?
Istanbul is one of the top destinations in Turkey and the city occupies two continents: Asia and Europe. It is filled with cultural experiences, fun & free things to do, delicious food, and endless beautiful places to add to your Istanbul itinerary.
When it comes to hotels, the list is endless and I want to make sure you get that special treatment and experience the famous Turkish hospitality.
So where to stay in Istanbul? I have selected only the best hotels in Istanbul with some incredible views to make your stay perfect.
We will cover romantic hotels, family getaways, places for first-time visitors, and all that topped with some of the best views in Istanbul.
Regardless, if you are looking for a sea or landmark view. Your only job is to pick out one from these 15 epic hotels in Istanbul!
*Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Where to stay in Istanbul? Our top picks for the best hotels in Istanbul with a view:
- Best romantic hotel in Istanbul: The Galata Istanbul Hotel MGallery
- Best hotel in Istanbul for first-time visitors: Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci
- Best hotel in Istanbul for families: Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel
- Best hotels in Istanbul with sea view: Meroddi Barnathan Hotel
- Best Istanbul hotel with a view of the Blue Mosque: Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci
- Best hotels in Istanbul for a relaxing stay: La Cielo Suites Bostancı
- Best 5-star luxury hotel in Istanbul: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus
- Best hotels near Hagia Sophia in Istanbul: Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel
Which is the best area to stay in Istanbul?
Istanbul is one of the biggest and busiest cities in the world, so it is essential to pick the location and choose the best area to stay in Istanbul. However, we are all different and we all have different priorities when traveling, so here are some things you should know before you book your hotel in Istanbul.
If you have a packed itinerary and want to tick off most of the main attractions and historical landmarks, Sultanahmet can be a great option for you. It is the best area in Istanbul for first-time visitors as it hosts important landmarks like The Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace Museum, and Hagia Sophia. It is well connected with public transport and Grand Bazaar is just around the corner.
But maybe you are visiting with friends and want to have some fun experiences instead? Taksim is the best area to stay in Istanbul for nightlife. And during the day, you can do some shopping and hop on the famous tram in Istanbul.
Karaköy and Galata host a lot of modern hotels in Istanbul. It is a vibrant and safe area in central Istanbul filled with chic, fine-dining restaurants, and cute coffee shops. So it is one of the best areas in Istanbul for foodies and coffee lovers. And this is where you find one of the symbols of Istanbul – the Galata Tower.
Wondering where to stay in Istanbul with family? I suggest you choose between Beşiktaş and Sultanahmet based on your budget and your itinerary intensity.
Summary of the best areas to stay in Istanbul:
- Sultanahmet – for first-time visitors exploring main attractions and historical landmarks.
- Taksim – for nightlife, fun experiences, and shopping.
- Karaköy and Galata – vibrant and safe location for foodies and coffee lovers.
- Beşiktaş – perfect area for romantic getaways and luxury stays. Great for families as well.
What is the safest area in Istanbul?
In general, central Istanbul is very safe for tourists, so I suggest you stay nearby the main attractions and important sights of Istanbul. These areas include Sultanahmet, Taksim, Karaköy, and Galata. As you already know, Beşiktaş is filled with luxury apartments and 5-star hotels, so that is a great choice as well.
However, be aware that these are the busiest areas filled with crowds, so you have to be careful with your belongings. Petty crimes can be pretty common in these areas, so make sure you watch your bag and don’t leave your things unattended.
Balat can be a great alternative if you are looking for a lively local area, but other than that, I don’t advise you to stay in remote areas of Istanbul far away from tourist sights. Not only for safety reasons but also for the time that you will need to get to central Istanbul. Traffic can get crazy and you don’t want to waste your time sitting in the car for hours.
How long to stay in Istanbul?
Considering the size of Istanbul, this city has a lot to offer to its visitors, however, most of the tourists come to Istanbul for a weekend getaway and tick off most of the attractions in 3 days. If this is your case, make sure you read this 3-day itinerary for Istanbul to maximize your time.
If you are not someone who likes to rush and you want to get to know Istanbul on a more personal level, make sure you plan 5-7 days in Istanbul. This amount will give you enough time to cover historical sights, museums, famous landmarks and try some authentic experiences in Istanbul.
When planning your time in Istanbul, you always have to add some extra time for traffic, moving around, long queues, and other delays, so try to stay flexible with your plans.
Best hotels in Istanbul with a view
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus
Four Seasons Hotels need no introduction, but if you are looking for a unique 5-star hotel in Istanbul with a sea view and budget is not a problem for you, this is an absolutely magical place to be.
The Bosphorus strait is right under your nose and you can enjoy a panoramic view from many rooms. In case your room doesn’t provide a view, you can still enjoy a fabulous breakfast with a view.
The indoor and outdoor pools are perfect to refresh yourself after a day of exploring or on a hot summer day. It will also be possible to enjoy a drink near the water. A spa where guests can enjoy a number of highly professional therapies and treatments is available. In addition, you can find a sauna, and of course a Turkish bath.
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus lies a few meters away from the stunning Dolmabahçe Palace, in the luxurious Besiktas district. It is a perfect area for a romantic getaway or some family time.
As previously mentioned Four Seasons Hotels are the most famous for their sophisticated design and the attention they put into every single detail. So it’s no surprise that this is one of the best hotels in Istanbul with a view.
Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci
This is one of the best Istanbul hotels with a view of the Blue Mosque. The Blue Mosque is so close to your balcony that you can almost touch it. And it is a perfect sunset spot in Istanbul – right from your balcony.
Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci is beautifully designed to offer a wonderful experience to its guests. If you are looking for a stylish modern hotel in Istanbul this is a great choice for you. Despite the modern design, the hotel also keeps an eye on authenticity. Here you can try an authentic and delicious Turkish breakfast while you admire the Blue Mosque in all its greatness.
Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci is strategically located a few steps away from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, two of the most famous landmark of the Turkish Capital. Thanks to its position, it is perfect for travelers that want to enjoy the real heart and soul of the city and have an unforgettable Istanbul view. And on top of that, it is one of the nicest hotels in Istanbul for first-time visitors as you can walk to most of the landmarks.
Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel
Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel is one of the best hotels near Hagia Sophia in Istanbul with a fantastic view of this legendary landmark. From your window, just a few meters away, you will be able to contemplate the majesty of Hagia Sophia from a unique perspective and create a memory that you will never forget.
Boasting unique and traditional Ottoman-style architecture, the hotel has an outdoor pool and a lovely botanic garden offering various spectacular flower species. To make your experience even more traditional, you will be even offered a complimentary 5 o’clock tea every day. The design of the rooms is modern and sophisticated. Everything is thought to please even the most demanding customer.
This is one of the most popular and famous 5-star hotels in Istanbul’s city center and a perfect choice whether you are traveling with your partner or with your family. It offers family rooms for those who are traveling with kids and romantic spa treatments for those who want some privacy.
Click here to see rates & availability and book your stay in this Istanbul hotel with a view.
Skalion Hotel & SPA
Skalion Hotel & SPA is a beautiful sea-view hotel in Istanbul. From some of your rooms like the suites and the terrace restaurant, you will have a fantastic view over Istanbul.
The hotel boasts modern features with luxury like original hand-painted oil paintings throughout the building. Convenient amenities and fully decorated rooms are perfect for families, couples, or single travelers. The typical Turkish breakfast is a real treat for guests who want to taste the flavors of Turkey while enjoying the view. The hotel also offers a modern spa where you can relax and try a real Turkish Hammam or a massage making it a perfect romantic hotel in Istanbul.
The location is also another reason to choose the Skalion Hotel & SPA, as you can comfortably walk to the Grand Bazaar and other main attractions. So if you are looking for some of the best hotels in Istanbul’s City center, Skalion Hotel & SPA can be a great choice for you. The view from your room is just a cherry on top!
Click here to see rates & availability and book your stay in this Istanbul hotel with a view.
The Halich Hotel Istanbul Karakoy – Special Category
If you are wondering where to stay in Istanbul with an unforgettable view while having the best value for money, the Halich Hotel Istanbul Karakoy is your place to be.
Most of the rooms offer a panoramic view of the Galata Bridge and Tower, and the Bosphorus strait at its best! You can have your daily breakfast on the terrace as you watch Istanbul waking up.
The rooms are modernly decorated and offer all the comforts to get the best from your vacation. The staff is careful and always available to make their guests happy.
The location is another reason to choose The Halich Hotel as it stands 500 meters away from the Galata Tower. As you already know, this is a great area to stay in Istanbul for foodies and coffee lovers.
Click here to see rates & availability and book your stay in this Istanbul hotel with a view.
Deluxe Golden Horn Sultanahmet Hotel
Looking for the best hotels in Istanbul with a view but with an authentic and traditional ottoman style? Deluxe Golden Horn Sultanahmet Hotel is the perfect place for you.
Some of the rooms like the Sultan Suite, and the Superior Double Room with Bosphorus View will make you feel like the famous Suleiman the Magnificent. The Deluxe Golden Horn Sultanahmet is also one of the most luxurious hotels with the best view of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. The very same fantastic view is also part of the experience of the terrace restaurant where you can also enjoy your delicious traditional breakfast.
The fine and luxurious and traditional details are the distinctive trait of this hotel not only in the rooms but also in the common spaces. Moreover, extra activities can be booked on demand to make your experience even more tailored.
The location is what makes this unique place to stay in Istanbul even more special: the Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia, and The Blue Mosque are all within a walking distance.
Click here to see rates & availability and book your stay in this Istanbul hotel with a view.
La Cielo Suites Bostancı
If you dream of a peaceful sea view to escape the crowd of the city, La Cielo Suites Bostancı is one of the most unique places to stay in Istanbul and a great fit for you.
The suites are stylishly decorated with dark tones and details in marble and they are perfectly equipped for short and long stays. Here you can find all the comforts you might need to enjoy your stay. In the Deluxe Double Room with Sea View, you can even enjoy a Jacuzzi while staring at the scenic hotel views of Istanbul.
La Cielo Suites Bostancı is located in the Asian side of Istanbul, approximately 20 kilometers away from the center of Istanbul, so this is a perfect place if you are looking for a relaxing holiday. And there is always a taxi to bring you to the city center. Or a boat if you want to save time and skip the traffic.
Click here to see rates & availability and book your stay in this Istanbul hotel with a view.
The Galata Istanbul Hotel MGallery
The Galata Istanbul Hotel MGallery is the best boutique hotel in Istanbul where you can enjoy a unique view of the iconic Galata Tower. Some rooms also offer an unforgettable view of the Golden horn and Eminönü so the choice is yours. Certainly, there are not many hotels in Istanbul with a view of the Galata Tower or Golden Horn and this is one of the best options.
The lavishly decorated rooms are eye candies for aesthetics and they a great comfort. In this luxury hotel in Istanbul, you can also enjoy a historical Turkish Hammam from 1720, a spa, and a massage and fitness center.
A special mention is for the breakfast, where the finest ingredients take part in a rich buffet, exquisitely served to the guests. The very same quality can be tasted at the Mesai Restaurant, where the excellence of Turkish cuisine is skilfully prepared by the chef.
Finally, the location is what makes The Galata Istanbul Hotel MGallery one of the best 5-star hotels in Istanbul. The guests can comfortably reach Taksim Square and Old City on foot or even by public transport.
Click here to see rates & availability and book your stay in this Istanbul hotel with a view.
Seven Hills Hotel – Special Category
This is a real institution in the city, as it hosts one of the most famous restaurants with a view of Istanbul, however, the restaurant is not the only place where you can admire the iconic view of Hagia Sophia.
Some rooms like the suite and the king room offer the same experience from a private and different perspective. In case your room doesn’t have a view, don’t worry, every morning a rich Turkish breakfast is served on the iconic terrace where you can choose if you want to stare at the Blue Mosque or Hagia Sophia.
The rooms at Sevel Hills are in a classic Ottoman style, which blends perfectly with a modern touch. You will find traditional rugs and hardwood floors with modern, oak-wood pieces.
A special mention to the staff of Seven Hills, which contributes to making this one of the best luxury hotels in Istanbul, no matter if you are a guest or a visitor of the restaurant.
The hotel is located within a short walking distance from the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi palace, so it’s a perfect location to get the essence of the city.
Click here to see rates & availability and book your stay in this Istanbul hotel with a view.
Legacy Ottoman Hotel
If you are looking for a hotel with a Bosphorus view in Istanbul, the Legacy Ottoman Hotel is definitely one of the places to be. Some of the rooms, like the majestic Legacy Ottoman Suite with Whirlpool or the Premier Bosphorus Room, will astonish you with a remarkable panorama of this legendary place in Istanbul, and you will also be able to spot the Galata tower.
The Legacy Ottoman hotel is set in a historical Byzantine-style building in Istanbul’s central Eminönü District. This is one of the 5-star hotels in Istanbul’s sea view that keeps a historic charm and is decorated in grand style but still provides all the modern comforts.
On top of that, a wonderful SPA is available at the hotel, where you can enjoy a number of treatments like couple massage, Hammam, steam room, and Sauna.
The hotel boasts a Terrace restaurant where you can enjoy a traditional meal while admiring the Bosphorus strait and the Galata Tower. Here you can also have your breakfast where you can enjoy some Turkish delicacies to start your day with a treat.
This is hands down one of the best 5-star hotels in Istanbul’s city center. You will have the chance to walk to many iconic places in Istanbul such as the Spice Bazaar or the Galata Bridge.
Meroddi Barnathan Hotel
Meroddi Barnathan Hotel is a special place where to look at the sea during your Turkey vacation. Some of the rooms like the Suite with City View offer a picturesque glimpse of the Galata Tower, but if the water is your element, the King Suite has to be your choice.
This is one of the best hotels in Istanbul with a sea view for the lovely design of the rooms, which are decorated in a sober and classy style. All the details are orientated to offer the guests the best experience.
360-panoramic views of Istanbul can be enjoyed from the terrace restaurant or while having a delicious Turkish breakfast.
The location will give you the chance to walk to popular sights in the city like Taksim Square or the Galata Tower, which is the cherry on the cake to make Meroddi Barnathan Hotel one of the best luxury hotels in Istanbul.
Click here to see rates & availability and book your stay in this Istanbul hotel with a view.
The Stay Bosphorus
A list of the best hotels in Istanbul with a view must include The Stay Bosphorus. What makes this hotel special? You get some unique Istanbul views of the Bosphorus and the splendid Ortaköy Mosque which you can’t get anywhere else. This Istanbul Hotel with a balcony will give you the chance to see the famous Mosque from a privileged and unique perspective.
The rooms and the common areas are exquisitely decorated in a bright style with marble details, ornated walls, and high ceilings. A number of modern amenities and facilities, such as an equipped gym, give the guests all they need to make their stay special.
A wide variety of breakfasts is served daily. There is also the chance to relax at the bar or enjoy some delicious specialties at the restaurant.
Central Taksim Square is located approximately 4 kilometers away, while the Ortaköy mosque is located within a walking distance.
Click here to see rates & availability and book your stay in this Istanbul hotel with a view.
Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul
Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul is another perfect place where to enjoy a Bosphorus view from your terrace, balcony, or window.
The lavish rooms feature contemporary décor with Asian highlights. Each room is equipped with high-tech products offering the guests the ultimate experience of comfort and luxury. The astonishing marble bathrooms boast heated floors.
Guests can also enjoy a special moment at the Spa. The spa includes a heated indoor pool, sauna, traditional Turkish Bath, hot tub, and steam rooms. Private spa suites are also available if you are looking for an extra treat.
IST TOO restaurant serves dishes from all over the world, expertly cooked by the staff. You can choose among Mediterranean, Southeast Asian, Japanese, and Turkish flavors.
Shangri-La Bosphorus is located a few steps away from Besiktas Ferry Port, which will give you the chance to get to central Istanbul skipping all the traffic, and within walking distance of the Dolmabahçe Palace.
Further reading for the best luxury hotels in Istanbul with a view
Or read more about: Istanbul | Turkey
Other useful tips for visiting Turkey
🏠 Need a place to stay? Browse Booking or Agoda
💃 How about fun experiences? GetYourGuide and Viator have it all
🚗 Considering renting a car in Turkey? Use Rentalcars
🔒 Don’t forget about travel insurance from HeyMondo
In conclusion…
This is the end of the best hotels in Istanbul with a view. For sure there are many great unique and luxurious accommodations in Istanbul, however, I hope that this article helps you pick the most suitable option for your needs.
I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.
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