Istanbul
Istanbul, where east meets west, is a wonderful city to visit and with more great hotels in Istanbul than ever before, you're certain to find the one that's perfect for you. There's so much to do in Istanbul - why not take the Bosphorus ferry for a great view of one of the world's busiest waterways? You'll see numerous yalis or fabulous residences, mosques and palaces as well as riverside parks where you can hop off. The Haghia Sofia is one of Istanbul's most iconic buildings and the exquisite mosaics and domed chambers are breathtaking. The Galata tower was built in 1348 and restored in the 1960's. Ignore the awful nightclub and restaurant and head right to the viewing platform for spectacular views over the city. Whatever appeals to you, from fine dining, great nightlife and excellent shopping and accommodation, you'll be sure to find it in Istanbul, and with the right apartment or hotel you'll have a memorable break.
The Istanbul Four Seasons hotel is located in an old prison building. However there's nothing austere or punitive about this hotel, apart from possibly the rates. If you can afford the very best, it's the height of 5 star luxury in the heart of the Old city. The A'Jia is a chic and modern boutique hotel that is aimed at those looking for a great mid priced option, while the Richmond Hotel enjoys a superb location on Istiklal Caddesi, one of the city's premier shopping and nightlife streets. Perhaps an apartment break is what you had in mind. Choosing an apartment in Istanbul allows you lots of scope and you can rent your dream apartment from the owners or through an online apartment rental site. If you're on a more limited budget, try the Devman Hotel, which though cheap is well run and clean and just happens to be on one of the most trendy streets in the city.
From the perfect apartment, to the 5 star glamour of some of the top hotels in Istanbul, to the cheap but charming budget rate hotel which is a real find - Istanbul has it all.
What to see or do in and around Istanbul
Oscar, . Estambul (Estambul)
Istanbul: fascinating and lively city
Istanbul is a fascinating city, full of contrasts and life 24 hours a day. You will not be disappointed, its markets, its people, and its gastronomy. To repeat without any doubt. I recommend visiting the Asian side, the Bosphorus cruise, and getting lost in its lively streets in the afternoons, after spending the whole day visiting the rest of the city. The transportation is easy, fast, and cheap.
Goun, . Estambul (Estambul)
Limited activities nearby
Not much to do nearby.
Vicente, . Estambul (Estambul)
Wonderful city I already knew
It's a city I already knew and it's wonderful.
Pilar, . Estambul (Estambul)
Istanbul: beautiful city but chaotic traffic
Istanbul is one of the most beautiful cities we have visited, but we also have to say that it is a very chaotic city regarding traffic, as it is very crowded and the trams during peak hours are packed; the truth is that it is very uncomfortable to travel by this means of transport when there are so many people.
Ana Maria, . Estambul (Estambul)
Monuments and crowds
The monuments are worth it, but the city is already quite crowded, and the central area is completely focused on tourism. You can barely distinguish one business from another; in the end, almost everything is the same and with very inflated prices.
Jose Miguel, . Estambul (Estambul)
Impressive City
City that impresses much more than one might think. Safe and with easy transportation. Culturally amazing.
Fátima, . Estambul (Estambul)
Istanbul, my second home
To talk about Istanbul is to talk about my second home. I've been there more than 20 times, and every time I go, I fall more and more in love with it. It's a very safe city to travel alone, with friends, or with a partner, in any way. I've tried it in all ways, and it's great, no incidents of any kind, neither at night nor during the day. The people are friendly, the food is delicious, although in recent years, prices have risen significantly, mainly due to excessive inflation. The history and culture it has are indescribable and infinite. The treatment of animals is enviable; everyone takes care of stray animals, providing them with food and water throughout the year. In short, I could write for hours, but I think it's not about boring. I only encourage those who don't know it to go and almost surely fall in love with that magical city too.
Alessio, . Estambul (Estambul)
Beautiful Istanbul
Beautiful Istanbul. A fascinating city with a lot of history and culture. We visited the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar. Highly recommended!
Francesco, . Estambul (Estambul)
Great area for visiting
Sirkeci area great for visiting: everything at hand and well connected to all the best attractions.
Lala, . Estambul (Estambul)
Very Comfortable Hotel
Very comfortable hotel. Smiling and caring staff. Excellent location, close to all attractions. Very pleased with the stay.
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