I am from istanbul and I agree with everything he said. But also it is a personal thing. He says you can finish the old town in 1 day but You need more than 3 days only for the Grand Bazaar if you really want to see it all and do some shopping. But if you just want to have a look at it and move on then yes 1 day is enough. It all depends if you are a museum guy or a historic person or just like shopping or sight seeing. I have travelled over 40 countries, almost all the famous capitals in the world and I can tell that never seen a city more diverse than istanbul. It is the only city in the world that you can get a taste of Europe, Assia and Middle east in the same day. Mosque, Cathedral and Synagogue on the same street.
Hi, thanks for the info. Can you name any hotel nearby like a center point for all the attractions, i have a trip planned for 7 days i m sure it ll be enough.
Excellent excellent...EXCELLENT. FInally someone with no drama, no silly music or over friendly body language .. calm precise and well explained. well done
Where to stay depends on your interests. There are still advantages of staying at Sultan Ahmet area: - feeling the real and historic Istanbul. - discover many things tourists miss to see , there's history in every corner there. - have enough time to visit the most important tourist attractions, which really needs enough time. - the area is very safe. - public transportation is near and you can reach any destination easily. * The area is not for those who like nightlife style, it is quite at night.
I fully agree. My family always stay in Sultan Ahmet area and enjoy the safe and leisurely pace there. There's also a sense of history and culture in the streets there that is not so prominent on the Asian side .
The owner the channel shares incorrect information about SultanAhmet district. It is the center of istanbul. All the historical places are located in there. The video shares incorrect information about sultan ahmet in order to misguide tourists to unpopular locations.
As a woman travelling by herself I chose it because of how close it is to everything and because it's safe. I was considering staying in Taksim square but the issue from Last week put me off completely plus I don't really want that much night life if I'm going in cold January
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I wouldn't say don't stay there, I stayed near the blue mosque for one week and it was amazing, food was brilliant but expensive, one bad experience with food and that was one of the most expensive places we went. Everything was within walking distance, yes you can see it all in a day but you can't take it in all in one day, every day we found something different to explore. Walking to the port from the blue mosque only takes about 30 minutes and we ferried to the Asian side, the Asian side was great, clean, delicious food and lots less tourism but for me it wasn't as exciting or historic if anything it seemed more European than the European side.
I absolutely agree,I stayed by sultalhamed area and we had a wonderful time there,I also agree ,the Asian side looks more European than the European side😂
Thank you For your opinion, I think I would rather stay in The blue mosque part as well , After all that's what you go there For to experience the real life around Turkey,
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Why not? I found a very cozy, reasonably priced, and with friendly staff hotel in Sultanamhet. I was lucky to find it. The shop owners had plenty of free time and shared an interesting grumble about the crazy economy. It's touristic, but so is most of the Istanbul City areas. Walking up the Galata Bridge to Kadikoy was fun, sneaking at the fishermen's buckets, but Kadikoy was dirty and disappointing. Not many good Asian restaurants in Istanbul. That was also a drawback. The evening cruise is a must to try. Beautifully illuminated buildings.
i was here 2 months after this video uploaded, i think sultanahmet is very great place, great foods and good hotels, if you go to cheap places or restaurants for sure you may get a bad experience there; it's up to your budget; but overall we had great days there....
Been Istanbul twice n going again in jan..stayed in sultanahmet both times n again In January. Tbh for me I like staying there because of the atmosphere and sitting outside the blue mosque at night is relaxing. Price wise was cheap but depends what time of year you go ofcourse.
@@camusmarlene I stayed at Pierre loti hotel in sultanahmet and faros which is just opposite. I’d recommend Pierre loti. Clean, friendly and good breakfast. Also close to tram stop as hotel is on main road and walking distance to blue mosque and grand bazaar.
You can also stay at the Armada Hotel. They have a good breakfast and you can even eat at the terrace overlooking the ocean!!! Very close to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia…….
I just got back from Istanbil. Unless you have been in Istanbul before I would suggest finding a hotel close to the T1 tram line. That will get you to everywhere a first time traveler would want to go. So that means Sultanahmet or Karakoy.
We stayed near the Blue mosque in an old townhouse, the Artefes hotel, and liked it so much. Nice rooftop bar, very yummy breakfast, friendly staff, not so expensive and walkable distance to the Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Serail, Bosporus, Grand Bazaar and more places.
I disagree... I stayed off Straselviler Cd. and found walking over the Galata Bridge everyday tiring. Not everyone wants a marathon day of sightseeing. Next time I visit Istanbul I would stay 2-3 days in Sultanahmet, and then 2-3 days in or near Taksim. Then move over the Asian side, maybe I'm odd but I like to go out of my accommodations and be where I want to explore, ideally walking everywhere. I appreciate your video, it has lots of good info, I've saved it for my next trip!
Sıraselviler street? There are some nice things to explore around it, but I agree - it’s not historic and doesn’t offer much if you’re a tourist. It’s a nice (and expensive!) area to live, though
@@mariawerner8447 There are some nice restaurants, a good food tour though Culinary Backstreets and it is close to Istiklal street. It is quiter that Sulanahmet. Siraselviler Street has some nice shopping too.
@@pashminagal I know it very well. Not sure it has shopping, though? My bet is always on Sultanahmet, as it is has the beautiful historic sights as well as the Grand Bazaar and proximity to the Bosphorus/Marmaray Sea. To me, that’s why you come to Istanbul. Shopping is everywhere around the World.
I've been stayed around Galata towe in 2020. It was so noisy at night and so tired by walking because you hv to climb the road everyday... i like to stay around eminonu coz it closed to tram and bus or metro terminal and the port. So it will be easier to go to many places by tram or metro.. and ferry if you want to Uskudar (to see and pray at Camilca camii) and you can go to Bursa by IDO ferry. And also ot is esier to visit sulaymam mousque and fatih mousqe and Ayub al ansory mousqe and lotti hill if you stay around Eminonu. There were so many beautifull places in Istanbul and it is esier if you go from 1 district to another by Istanbul transportation which is nice and cheap. So you need to stay next to the terminal... that's my opinion by my experienced when i visit Istanbul 2 years ago.
I lived in Istanbul for 9 years, 4 in Cankurtaran, a really lovely and authentic area a 5 minute walk from the Blue Mosque. I loved it there, and as this was in 2000-2004, Sultanahmet (especially Akbıyık caddesi) was full of Western tourists and travellers, and we used to sit on the beautiful roof terraces and enjoy cheap food and beer, listen to music and make friendships that have lasted me to this day. All this has changed now, as conservative Arabic families now dominate this area, roof terraces are closed, no more drinks and music. I later lived in Moda for another 4 years, and for a while in Üsküdar, 100 metres from the Bosphorus, as well as in Bakırköy. If you are a tourist, though, staying for a few days, I would still recommend Sultanahmet, as all the main sites are there. You can’t see the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Archeological Museum, the Mosaic Museum and the Kapalı Çarşi in one day! I found a family room in a very nice boutique hotel in Sultanahmet for my relatives for 60 Euro (3 people) and then I took them around Istanbul on ferries and public transport, including Kadıköy, Kuzguncuk, the Bosphorus etc. Taksim is crowded and has nothing much to offer European travellers, and Kadıköy doesn’t have many nice hotels - unless you are prepared to pay a few hundred Euro a night at the DoubleTree Hilton or stay at a hostel.
Seriously, to cover Sultanahmet in one day is not enough in my opinion. We stayed in the Sultanahmet area for 7 nights and it was like "never enough" for us. We took pictures in the day and had to come back in the evening for some night photography. Dont forget about those long lines to get into all the attractions that could take hours. Hunting for souvenirs like turkish delights in boxes took us to many bazaars. We bought boxes from different places to try them out in the hotel. Finally we settled for the best one and went back to Eminonu to buy dozens of them. We continued another 5 nights stay near the Galata Tower and even went back to Sultanahmet on one of the nights for dinner because we love that restaurant. We visited Kadikoy, Bagdat Street and had a seafood dinner by the Bosphorus Sea at Uskudar on the Asian side for a full day and came back to Galata at 9 pm. The Asian side can be done in a day but not the Sultanahmet.
Hey, I am visiting istanbul with a one year old in a few weeks. I have booked sultanahmet for the four days but this time around I wanted to change scenery a bit and book last three days in galata as I absolutely adore that beauty. But my concern in the hills with a toddler. As far as I remember there’s a lot of hills in that area so will commuting to different areas harder if I end up staying in galata? Anything you would recommend at all?
THANK YOU SO MUCH THE MAP IS THE BEST WAY TO UNDERSTAND FOR ME . WHEN I VISITED I TOOK TRAM AND VISITED MANY PLACES. I LOVE THE ASIA SIDE AND NEXT TIME I WILL STAY THERE INSHALLAH
Wow this video changed my opinion about staying in Sultan Ahmed area and for sure will save us money. I lived in Turkey for 12 years and never visited this places… now after 8 years planning to visit and hope it’s gonna be nice. Thank you for video so helpful!
You have to be a tourist in your own town. That is how your mindset should be. We tend never to see what is in our own backyards! I'm making an effort to see all the local sights in my town and take groups of friends with me.
Great video! I've been to Istanbul twice and I thought I was crazy because I stayed in Kadikoy (and loved it), while most of the people stayed in the Sultanahmet area... I really enjoyed it: few tourists, better and more affordable food, and it is very conveniently located to reach all other areas
@@susykings3343 my perception was that there were fewer people fluent in English in this part of the city, but you'll get by. I don't speak a word of Turkish and didn't have a problem
I spent two nights in a hostel near the blue Mosque. It's like Disneyland around there. I moved over to the asian side and I love it. The public transportation is fantastic in Istanbul. You can stay anywhere in town and get to the tourist sites easy.
This channel shares incorrect information about SultanAhmet district. It is the center of istanbul. All the historical places are located in there. If you stay close to places you want to visit, you will save money on transportation.
I get what you’re saying but a few corrections: 1. Yes, the chances of getting bad food in Sultanahmet is higher than other areas of Istanbul because the area is densely packed with tourist restaurants. But there are still great restaurants there to be found. Just the % is lower than other areas due to the plethora of tourist-quality restaurants packed in there. 2. Yes, it’s definitely more expensive. Restaurants and hotels. 3. But….there is something about the glory of waking up and having breakfast in your hotel’s rooftop restaurant overlooking the Blue Mosque in the morning. So i wouldn’t say “don’t stay in Sulanahmet.” I’d say “Sulanahmet is touristy, but historically beautiful. It’s rife with tourist-quality restaurant so be picky. And be aware that it will cost more, for the convenience and glory of being in the middle of historic Istanbul.” Some people will prefer Sultanahmet, as price isn’t always the deciding factor. cheers!
Interesting I would agree about Sultan ahmet, I I'm gonn atravel there soon hopefully. In my famlies case we really want to be as close to Ayasofya as possible so we can do our prayers as many times as possible there, especially the morning prayer I believe would be magical here. So stayingg in Sultan Ahmet can be more reasonable for some I believe. Otherwise I have had friends stay in Kadiköy and ûmraniye and they loved it!
I am glad to know more about the Asian side. I have only been to Kadikoy and enjoyed it but would like to explore more areas and take the walk along the Asian side you suggested. I stayed in Karakoy once, but I love staying in Sultanahmet - walking across the park in the morning or evening with the beautiful fountain and people relaxing with their families. Walking back to my hotel at night with the silouettes of the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sofia is one of my favorite things about Istanbul. I always stay at a hotel that has a breakfast room at the top - usually with a terrace so you have a wonderful view of the water while you eat breakfast. Maybe once I explore the Asian side I will change my mind about where is the best place to stay.
As a mature person who loves history and beauty and wants to sleep and not party at night, Sultanahmet is where I always stay. I have been all over Istanbul and still prefer "my" centrally located friendly hotel with its top floor restaurant and rooftop terrace with fantastic views. I love running down to Aya Sofia and through the park to the Blue Mosque early in the morning, and walking the cobblestoned streets and alleys down to explore less touristy areas and then taking the tram back up. I used to take the metro to Sultanahmet from Ataturk airport...first ride in on a clear night in December was just magical...seagulls flying around the lighted minarets at the mosques...The bus ride in from the new airport is just blah in comparison. One tip for newcomers: avoid going to Istanbul when the Saudis come for their holidays, and try to avoid Chinese tour groups!
Nice video, thank you! One positive out of this Covid time is that I can now afford to stay in the historical Istanbul area. I have a lovely family apartment for half price, and will probably end up staying in it for my three month visa period. My hotel is just off Piyer Loti Caddesi, on the edge of the shoe manufacturing area, with narrow cobbled streets and lots of activity on weekdays. Going west are poorer districts where many long-stay foreigners live (Syrian, Pakistani, African, Central Asian, etc), so my location is an interesting combination of touristic/local, posh/poor. I buy most food from the supermarket, with the odd takeaway of soup or gozleme (I'm vegetarian), and the vibe is still nice in the Sultanahmet area even though tourist numbers are down.
I spent 7 days in the Sultanahmet area. it was quiet and easy access to the wonderful historic sites. Calling them "tourist sites" makes them sound like Disneyland. Istanbul has been one of the 2 or 3 major European/circum Meditrraean/Near Eastern cities for 2,000 years and has buildings and columns that are magnificent and fascinating. I spent 2 hrs or more with most sites around Sultanahmet, with an hr for a restful coffee and snack after.
We stayed in Wyndham Grand and took the ferry every day to europe from Asia side. Sultan Ahmet blue mosque topkapi grand and spice bazar. I went to Eyup too. The road is quite busy area round Galata tower. I went to kadakoy too we used the ferry and metro. Enjoyed our stay visited all the places you have circled. The weather was nice the food was lovely so were the people.
Good video but not a fair review of the old area or Sultanahmet area. Im a big fan esp of Sirkeci. 1st , place choice depends pupose and interest: fashion shopping, night life or just to be surrounded by history and shop Turkish products. I visit every year & cant get enough of The old town area. Sooo beautiful and really so much to do in addition to very easy access to all areas. My #2 is Nishantashi is a great area, different or europian with a Turkish touch . #3 Uskudar: so original and authentic but no good choices to stay. I agree that the Asian is the better area ( would love to live there) but not for visitors. 🙏🙏🙏
just finished a month in Istanbul stayed in Sultanahmet small family hotel 50 per night..level streets to the tram best exchange rate..enjoyed the asian side but lacks the museums, antique stores, markets that I find on the European side..every hotel in taxim is on a sharp hill and I have been bait and switched twice there...for sultanhamet prices...but anywhere in Istanbul is magic
I always stay close to Galata as i like familiarity but it’s also perfect positioning to get around. My only tip is don’t stay close to mosque because of the early morning call to prayer - unless you want that of course!
That’s a good advice if someone has been to Istanbul before and is staying for a longer time. But if someone is going for 2-4 days for the first time and wants to see the key tourist areas, then staying on the European side is best. I would stay in sultan Ahmet over taksim unless you’re one who wants the night life. Ortakoy and Sisli are also good options on the European side
I stayed in a 4 story hotel from the top deck of which I could see the Blue Mosque. An excellent location, at least in the fall. Not expense. Easy walk to Sultanahmet, Agia Sofia, Topkapi Palace, and the Cistern. And the Hippodrome. You dismss these as "tourist sites". These are completely unique, architecturally interesting, and of great historical interest. I had a coffee outside the big Hamman across from Agia Sofia I am very glad I'd stay there. I don't know HOW you can do all these sights in one day. 2 hrs plus for each of Topkapi and Agia Sofia and Cistern. Easy to get on streetcar and easy to get to the north side and Taksim Sq. Went twice.
I so wanted to go to istanbul Xmas 2021 but I was overwhelmed by the so many videos in UA-cam. So I ended up not going. Your video is what I needed all along. I am planning now. Thank you soooo much!
Just don´t understand. I live in Moda/Kadiköy, very nice area, but can´t see what´s wrong with the Fatih area if you come here maybe first time as a tourist and want to see the main attractions. Still, Moda for me is a little bit like Paris, maybe not what first comes to mind when you think "Istanbul". And rent is not cheap here! There are cheap hostels etc. Have you really checked it out the Fatih/main tourist area? There are actually plenty of good options nearby to stay for a couple of nights and my personal favourite restaurant Ortaklar kebab lahmacun - cheap, the best - is just a 10 min walk from the Blue Mosque.
Its just my preference, i like sultan ahmet for 2 days but when i go on holiday i prefer getting lost in the streets and going to local cafes/restaurants. Everybody is different, this is just my opinion :)
BTW, what I really appreciate about your videos is that you're not showing to much in the way of photos/videos. I need to research information but I want to not feel like the city or the experience is being spoiled for me before I arrive. I've really enjoyed going through your videos and learning a lot but I feel like I'm still going to see things with a fresh pair of eyes and not already seen it because I watched too many youtube videos.
this video is helpful even after i fully booked where I stayed cuz it gives a nice general overview of where things are as opposed to figuring out each one, 1 by 1 then planning a route. I wish I watched it earlier b4 figuring it all out
Fantastic video, extremely helpfull. Going for the first time. Watched so many videos to get the information explained in this in detail. Well done to the creator. Very helpfull.
I did the exact same thing. I got to walk around local neighborhoods with no tourist. It was calm and clean. The best way to see a country is to avoid tourist areas because they are not a goo representation of the people or the life
Thank you for your clear advices. I was one time in Istambuł. and I made this mistakle to stay near The grand Bazar. There was a crowd of prople 24 hours a day.. Istambul is amazing in my opinion. The one disadventage is that is difficult to move usig Walking sticks. Many places miss the bannister to hold. I definitely want to visit this city again. I will stay in Asia side
I am a professional tour guide in IstanbuI. I always recommend people to avoid Sultanahmet for staying, but to stay in Taksim, Galata area. The historical part, Sultan Ahmet area does not have moderately priced nice hotels or restaurants. Yes , the major sights are there but after the visiting hours of the sights, no nice and local places to go, to experience genuine food or drinks. Besides there are people hassle tourists offering free service for getting around but they are working for nearby touristic shops and mostly targeting solo travelers..So, l agree with you don’t stay there at SultanAhmet…
Tourist here: I completely disagree. I stayed in Sultanahmet and the proximity of all the stuff I wanted to see is important. I only took metro to Beyoglu but everything else I could see by simply walking around Sultanahmet and thats why its perfect for tourists. Keep in mind that tourists love walking around, not travel between sights ffs.
I am so excited to visit Istanbul for my 40th birthday this summer! I plan to alternate my days by doing a ton of walking one day, then relaxing the day after. For my slow days, I imagine being by the water with great waiter service and just really do nothing. Is there a hotel or day club where I could do this? if not, is there another option for 4 ladies to just do nothing? Maybe a booze cruise, all-day arab bath?
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Unless you have NO interest in history and architectural beauty, stay near Sultanahmet. I spent 6 nights there and didnt even enter the Blue Mosque (no time) or the Suleiman Mosque. I spent 2 hrs min. Agia Sofia, and Topkapi and the Archaeol. Museum. An hr in the Cistern where part of From Russia with love was filmed. The historic Hippodrome with an Egyptian obelisk and the 3 serpent column from Delphi. It was 50% locals when I was there (Fall 2014). Easy to catch the street car to Taksim.
Further north, Kurucesme, Arnavutkoy, and Bebek are also very nice, lots of greenery, good restaurants, cocktail bars, and terraces on the Bosphorus. Coming home in the evening on the ferry from Eminonu after a busy day is a magical experience.
Thanks to God first and you because I was just about to book my hotel for my family in sultan Ahmed and then after I watched your video I changed it to kadikoi.
I totally agree with you, but Sultanahmet is not that bad! It is at least quiet and we had a wonderful small boutique hotel with great view on the Bosphorus. Yes, good food is difficult to find - but I would recommend restaurants Giritli and Balikci Sabahattin. A sundowner on the rooftop of the Seven Hills-hotel gave me goose bumps, what a view! I do not like Taksim! Too noisy, too crowded and not very beautiful....
Hi Clare...can I asked where you stayed?? I did check out your suggestion for the Seven Hills Hotel. It's much too expensive but the rooftop looks amazing. Did you eat at the seafood restaurant there? Thanks.
@@killerqueen1148 Sorry for my late reply. I‘ve stayed at ‚Rumours Inn‘ in Sultanahmet, which I can highly recommend. It has also a nice rooftop area. For ‚Balikci Sabahattin‘ and ‚Ahirkapi Balikci‘….
Notice 80% of experienced travellers here completely disagree, including me. In the fall it wasnt busy or noisy. I spent 7 days nr Sultanahmet and would again.
Thx a millions bro.We are coming to turkey in may 2022.Your video is very very helpful for us to get the overall view of istanbul. Keep up the good video.May God bless you n family
Thank you. This was very helpful. I have visited Istanbul in 2019 and found the hotel very expensive. Yes, I was in central Istanbul. I just wish I had seen your video before. I am planning another trip just to Istanbul for a week in March. Appreciate your advice.
Super excellent. Last Over the last 2 years I have seen a lot of vdo coming to Istanbul for information. Today I got all the information in my mind. Thank you very much.👍
I think your analysis of the areas to stay in Istanbul is quite subjective! Besides, seeing everything there is to see in one day is certainly not advisable. That is why I avoid tours which rush through the places visited and scratch the surface! Where to stay is an individual choice, a personsl choice. Not everyone who visits Istanbul is looking to party and, hence, an active nightlife might not be what they're looking for. There are some of us who wouldn't want to see all those places you mentioned in one day!! If we did, we would be rushing through it all and after a while our recollections of those places would be a blur. There is so much to see and do in Istanbul, I would give it the time it deserves. In addition to the places mentioned in this channel in the Sultanahmet area, there is the Topkapi Palace, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, the Basilica Cistern, to name a few, and they're all very convenient to visit if you're staying in the Sultanahmet neighborhood. I stayed in the Sultanahmet neighborhood during my recent visit to Istanbul and I enjoyed walking past the Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia every evening and seeing the fountains at play and the illumination of the area. I also found it very convenient to take the tram and the ferries/cruises plying the Bosphorus and Golden Horn. Another area that I enjoyed staying in was Sirkeci which is very near to all the above mentioned sights. I also stayed in Karaköy and while my hotel was less than a 5-minute walk from the Galata Tower, I found all the uphill and downhill walking, and climbing all those steps in the streets leading to the tower very draining. So, that was the area I would refrain from staying in if I were to visit Istanbul again. Another neighborhood I stayed in was Üsküdar and while that was convenient to seeing the sights on the Asian side, I preferred staying in Sirkeci and the Sultanahmet neighborhood. So, I'd like to remind people who watch this video that there is no 'one size fits all' area. Remember that the area I like or the area that this UA-camr likes might not be what you like. Do your research and pick the area that best fits your needs!
I thoroughly enjoyed sirkice it’s so close to sultanahmet. We stayed in sirkice and would travel to sultanahmet. I prefer the historical places and the hustle and bustle of the streets. It was so nice. I loved it
I am in Istanbul next weekend. What should i visit on Asian side? Shortly. Please help. 😊i have Plan to take a boat from Sirkeci to Harem. And whats your opinion? Is it better to take Halva and magnets on Asian side or Istikal? And how to pay taxi from airport? In euros or change the money on airport? Thank you.
I agree, I stayed in fatih area and it was beautiful, but very touristic and expensive. You also get annoyed by the shop owners who want to sell you something. Kadikoy was more local and cheap and very nice place to hang out
@@nitinshukla3752 I didn't go there. I went to Istanbul this time to eat and relax, not to do all the tourist sites. I had an AWESOME time!! I enjoyed the ferry. It was easy to understand and very economic. The subway is beautiful and economic and easy to navigate. I had issues with the bus, though. It wasn't so easy to understand for me. We used Uber for the taxis, which were a good price as well.
@@nitinshukla3752 It's called DAMLA! You can bring it up on Google once you get there. That's how we found it. The food is AWESOME!!! I'm vegetarian. My husband is not. We ate there three days. Two were on my birthday :) But truth be told, there are too many places to choose from. I feel like your choices are unlimited and we only scratched the surface, which is why I'm obligated to back and give everything a fair shot!
Really great advice, many thanks! I plan to visit soon. I had my sights on Istanbul for a long time and its now or never. What a fascinating place. I don't like pricey hotels, I want a dirt cheap hotel but clean and quiet and with local color and people, authentic restaurants for locals, not tourists. I also love ferries, so this should be nice - taking the ferry daily. What about traditional handicrafts, old jewelry - where do you find that in less touristy places? In India, there is always a Chandni Chowk area that sells silver. Almost every large city has one. The locals go there to buy and sell silver jewelry, so that is where you go, not the expensive Cottage Industry Emporiums for tourists. I want to find something similar for Turkey.
Thank you so much. I am going to Istanbul in June and for months I have been wondering where to stay. Almost every website advises Sultanahmet. And it's so pricey.
Thanks for the suggestion, it's very helpful. Originally I'll be staying in a hotel which is 5mins away from blue mosque, now i change my mind. I will choose hotel near galata tower or in taxim square. Thanks.
@@IstanbulHacks it was amazing I must say best experience ever I had in any country ❤️ excellent would love to visit again and again. The best thing is the hospitality of people so friendly.
Thank you for this. I’m taking my family to Istanbul in August and actually booked in sultanahmet. I’m going to reconsider staying there now. We are also going to cappadocia then Antalya
Part 2 in more detail: ua-cam.com/video/KOC9D2lDd_A/v-deo.html
This is really useful information and great video! Thank you for sharing this important information :)
Where do you recommend for a family to stay with Kids for 7 nights ?. Where there are tourist so we fit in but not to expensive.
@@socils4451 Karakoy
Tqvm
hey There
Just discovered your channel. Very good channel, please keep it up.
Where is the safest place to stay for a tourist please Mr Hacks?
I am from istanbul and I agree with everything he said. But also it is a personal thing. He says you can finish the old town in 1 day but You need more than 3 days only for the Grand Bazaar if you really want to see it all and do some shopping. But if you just want to have a look at it and move on then yes 1 day is enough. It all depends if you are a museum guy or a historic person or just like shopping or sight seeing. I have travelled over 40 countries, almost all the famous capitals in the world and I can tell that never seen a city more diverse than istanbul. It is the only city in the world that you can get a taste of Europe, Assia and Middle east in the same day. Mosque, Cathedral and Synagogue on the same street.
Yes I made a mistake by saying 1 day. I clear it up on part 2 of this video. Thanks for the comment :)
@@IstanbulHacks I’ll have a look. I really like the way you explain it on the map. Nice video
You are right! It is so beautiful and amazing!!
I totally agree 👍
Hi, thanks for the info. Can you name any hotel nearby like a center point for all the attractions, i have a trip planned for 7 days i m sure it ll be enough.
Excellent excellent...EXCELLENT. FInally someone with no drama, no silly music or over friendly body language .. calm precise and well explained. well done
Where to stay depends on your interests.
There are still advantages of staying at Sultan Ahmet area:
- feeling the real and historic Istanbul.
- discover many things tourists miss to see , there's history in every corner there.
- have enough time to visit the most important tourist attractions, which really needs enough time.
- the area is very safe.
- public transportation is near and you can reach any destination easily.
* The area is not for those who like nightlife style, it is quite at night.
I agree with you . Since I've been in Istanbul, Sultan Met has been my favorite place.
Totally agree . Love sultan ahmet
I fully agree. My family always stay in Sultan Ahmet area and enjoy the safe and leisurely pace there. There's also a sense of history and culture in the streets there that is not so prominent on the Asian side .
The owner the channel shares incorrect information about SultanAhmet district. It is the center of istanbul. All the historical places are located in there. The video shares incorrect information about sultan ahmet in order to misguide tourists to unpopular locations.
As a woman travelling by herself I chose it because of how close it is to everything and because it's safe. I was considering staying in Taksim square but the issue from Last week put me off completely plus I don't really want that much night life if I'm going in cold January
I can’t say how grateful I am for this video. I’m going to Istanbul for the first time and it REALLY HELPED ME!
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You go there for business or for tourist?
I wouldn't say don't stay there, I stayed near the blue mosque for one week and it was amazing, food was brilliant but expensive, one bad experience with food and that was one of the most expensive places we went. Everything was within walking distance, yes you can see it all in a day but you can't take it in all in one day, every day we found something different to explore. Walking to the port from the blue mosque only takes about 30 minutes and we ferried to the Asian side, the Asian side was great, clean, delicious food and lots less tourism but for me it wasn't as exciting or historic if anything it seemed more European than the European side.
I absolutely agree,I stayed by sultalhamed area and we had a wonderful time there,I also agree ,the Asian side looks more European than the European side😂
I think he can't affordable that’s why Turkey Was Every Place was very Beauty
Thank you
For your opinion,
I think I would rather stay in
The blue mosque part as well ,
After all that's what you go there
For to experience the real life
around Turkey,
Now food would be 3x times more expensive
Dude! Honestly the most helpful video I have seen in a while! Thanks for breaking it down!
I appreciate the comment, you're welcome and thank you :)
What do youvthink ofvthe Bagcilar area, which is close to the new airport and Mall of Istanbul?
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I only went for the mosques and Topkapi Palace, staying Sultan Ahmet meant that everything was within walking distance. Very nice.
Why not? I found a very cozy, reasonably priced, and with friendly staff hotel in Sultanamhet. I was lucky to find it. The shop owners had plenty of free time and shared an interesting grumble about the crazy economy. It's touristic, but so is most of the Istanbul City areas. Walking up the Galata Bridge to Kadikoy was fun, sneaking at the fishermen's buckets, but Kadikoy was dirty and disappointing. Not many good Asian restaurants in Istanbul. That was also a drawback. The evening cruise is a must to try. Beautifully illuminated buildings.
What's the hotel name, kindle guide. Many thanks.
i was here 2 months after this video uploaded, i think sultanahmet is very great place, great foods and good hotels, if you go to cheap places or restaurants for sure you may get a bad experience there; it's up to your budget; but overall we had great days there....
I’m happy you had a good time :)
how long do u recommend stay in istanbul ?
Been Istanbul twice n going again in jan..stayed in sultanahmet both times n again In January. Tbh for me I like staying there because of the atmosphere and sitting outside the blue mosque at night is relaxing. Price wise was cheap but depends what time of year you go ofcourse.
I'm glad you enjoyed
Hiii can you please recommend me a hotel in sultanahmet?
@@camusmarlene I stayed at Pierre loti hotel in sultanahmet and faros which is just opposite. I’d recommend Pierre loti. Clean, friendly and good breakfast. Also close to tram stop as hotel is on main road and walking distance to blue mosque and grand bazaar.
You can also stay at the Armada Hotel.
They have a good breakfast and you can even eat at the terrace overlooking the ocean!!!
Very close to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia…….
@@sarabanuelos5265price?
I just got back from Istanbil. Unless you have been in Istanbul before I would suggest finding a hotel close to the T1 tram line. That will get you to everywhere a first time traveler would want to go. So that means Sultanahmet or Karakoy.
Karakoy is much better than SultanAhmet in my opinion :)
We stayed near the Blue mosque in an old townhouse, the Artefes hotel, and liked it so much. Nice rooftop bar, very yummy breakfast, friendly staff, not so expensive and walkable distance to the Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Serail, Bosporus, Grand Bazaar and more places.
Thanks for sharing this. 👍🏿 very helpful
I disagree...
I stayed off Straselviler Cd. and found walking over the Galata Bridge everyday tiring.
Not everyone wants a marathon day of sightseeing.
Next time I visit Istanbul I would stay 2-3 days in Sultanahmet, and then 2-3 days in or near Taksim.
Then move over the Asian side, maybe I'm odd but I like to go out of my accommodations and be where I want to explore, ideally walking everywhere.
I appreciate your video, it has lots of good info, I've saved it for my next trip!
Sıraselviler street? There are some nice things to explore around it, but I agree - it’s not historic and doesn’t offer much if you’re a tourist. It’s a nice (and expensive!) area to live, though
@@mariawerner8447 There are some nice restaurants, a good food tour though Culinary Backstreets and it is close to Istiklal street. It is quiter that Sulanahmet.
Siraselviler Street has some nice shopping too.
@@pashminagal I know it very well. Not sure it has shopping, though? My bet is always on Sultanahmet, as it is has the beautiful historic sights as well as the Grand Bazaar and proximity to the Bosphorus/Marmaray Sea. To me, that’s why you come to Istanbul. Shopping is everywhere around the World.
I've been stayed around Galata towe in 2020. It was so noisy at night and so tired by walking because you hv to climb the road everyday... i like to stay around eminonu coz it closed to tram and bus or metro terminal and the port. So it will be easier to go to many places by tram or metro.. and ferry if you want to Uskudar (to see and pray at Camilca camii) and you can go to Bursa by IDO ferry.
And also ot is esier to visit sulaymam mousque and fatih mousqe and Ayub al ansory mousqe and lotti hill if you stay around Eminonu.
There were so many beautifull places in Istanbul and it is esier if you go from 1 district to another by Istanbul transportation which is nice and cheap. So you need to stay next to the terminal... that's my opinion by my experienced when i visit Istanbul 2 years ago.
I lived in Istanbul for 9 years, 4 in Cankurtaran, a really lovely and authentic area a 5 minute walk from the Blue Mosque. I loved it there, and as this was in 2000-2004, Sultanahmet (especially Akbıyık caddesi) was full of Western tourists and travellers, and we used to sit on the beautiful roof terraces and enjoy cheap food and beer, listen to music and make friendships that have lasted me to this day. All this has changed now, as conservative Arabic families now dominate this area, roof terraces are closed, no more drinks and music. I later lived in Moda for another 4 years, and for a while in Üsküdar, 100 metres from the Bosphorus, as well as in Bakırköy. If you are a tourist, though, staying for a few days, I would still recommend Sultanahmet, as all the main sites are there. You can’t see the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Archeological Museum, the Mosaic Museum and the Kapalı Çarşi in one day! I found a family room in a very nice boutique hotel in Sultanahmet for my relatives for 60 Euro (3 people) and then I took them around Istanbul on ferries and public transport, including Kadıköy, Kuzguncuk, the Bosphorus etc. Taksim is crowded and has nothing much to offer European travellers, and Kadıköy doesn’t have many nice hotels - unless you are prepared to pay a few hundred Euro a night at the DoubleTree Hilton or stay at a hostel.
Hello there, can you provide detail information of boutique hotel in Sultanahmet that you mentioned? I would appreciate it a lot. Thanks
If for business, where is the best place to stay?
@@manoaharilalarakotonindrin330 That depends on where your business is! Asian or European side? Which area exactly? Istanbul is huge!
@@handy1580 Sadly, they now charge 360 Euro a night for the same room 🙁 Arabs pay these prices!
@@handy1580 Empress Zoe. Sadly often booked out.
Seriously, to cover Sultanahmet in one day is not enough in my opinion. We stayed in the Sultanahmet area for 7 nights and it was like "never enough" for us. We took pictures in the day and had to come back in the evening for some night photography. Dont forget about those long lines to get into all the attractions that could take hours. Hunting for souvenirs like turkish delights in boxes took us to many bazaars. We bought boxes from different places to try them out in the hotel. Finally we settled for the best one and went back to Eminonu to buy dozens of them. We continued another 5 nights stay near the Galata Tower and even went back to Sultanahmet on one of the nights for dinner because we love that restaurant. We visited Kadikoy, Bagdat Street and had a seafood dinner by the Bosphorus Sea at Uskudar on the Asian side for a full day and came back to Galata at 9 pm. The Asian side can be done in a day but not the Sultanahmet.
Ye one day is too little, i mentioned this in part 2. However, i still don't think its the right place to stay
You went there for business or tourist? Thanks for replying
@@manoaharilalarakotonindrin330 as tourist. We are planning a return visit later this year.
Which store sells the best Turkish delights in your opinion?
Hey, I am visiting istanbul with a one year old in a few weeks. I have booked sultanahmet for the four days but this time around I wanted to change scenery a bit and book last three days in galata as I absolutely adore that beauty. But my concern in the hills with a toddler. As far as I remember there’s a lot of hills in that area so will commuting to different areas harder if I end up staying in galata? Anything you would recommend at all?
THANK YOU SO MUCH
THE MAP IS THE BEST WAY TO UNDERSTAND FOR ME .
WHEN I VISITED I TOOK TRAM AND VISITED MANY PLACES.
I LOVE THE ASIA SIDE AND NEXT TIME
I WILL STAY THERE INSHALLAH
I’m happy you had a good time :)
Wow this video changed my opinion about staying in Sultan Ahmed area and for sure will save us money. I lived in Turkey for 12 years and never visited this places… now after 8 years planning to visit and hope it’s gonna be nice. Thank you for video so helpful!
Thanks for watching :)
You have to be a tourist in your own town. That is how your mindset should be. We tend never to see what is in our own backyards! I'm making an effort to see all the local sights in my town and take groups of friends with me.
Great video! I've been to Istanbul twice and I thought I was crazy because I stayed in Kadikoy (and loved it), while most of the people stayed in the Sultanahmet area... I really enjoyed it: few tourists, better and more affordable food, and it is very conveniently located to reach all other areas
Are the non touristic areas English Spoken ? I don’t speak any Turkish 🥲
@@susykings3343 my perception was that there were fewer people fluent in English in this part of the city, but you'll get by. I don't speak a word of Turkish and didn't have a problem
@@JuanCuloCabra hope you enjoyed the trip. while having a 4 day stay in Istanbul you still recommend to stay in Kadikoy?
If you had to compare taksim and kadikoy which one is better? Which one is more affordable food wise
@@HassanKhanOnline Yes, I do, it's just one ferry trip away from most of the 'famous' touristic places anyway
he's totally right n greetings from Istanbul.. have a good holiday for those who come to Istanbul already.
I slept in hostel Nobel. 100m from blue mosque on Sultan Ahmed. It was very cheap and nice. excelent location.
I'm glad you had a nice time :)
I spent two nights in a hostel near the blue Mosque. It's like Disneyland around there. I moved over to the asian side and I love it. The public transportation is fantastic in Istanbul. You can stay anywhere in town and get to the tourist sites easy.
You enjoy the authentic part of the city more than the tourist sties. Just like me :)
Matt Miles can you post which hostel you stayed??
This channel shares incorrect information about SultanAhmet district. It is the center of istanbul. All the historical places are located in there. If you stay close to places you want to visit, you will save money on transportation.
I love Istanbul, greetings from Bulgaria
🇧🇬💘🇹🇷
I get what you’re saying but a few corrections:
1. Yes, the chances of getting bad food in Sultanahmet is higher than other areas of Istanbul because the area is densely packed with tourist restaurants. But there are still great restaurants there to be found. Just the % is lower than other areas due to the plethora of tourist-quality restaurants packed in there.
2. Yes, it’s definitely more expensive. Restaurants and hotels.
3. But….there is something about the glory of waking up and having breakfast in your hotel’s rooftop restaurant overlooking the Blue Mosque in the morning. So i wouldn’t say “don’t stay in Sulanahmet.” I’d say “Sulanahmet is touristy, but historically beautiful. It’s rife with tourist-quality restaurant so be picky. And be aware that it will cost more, for the convenience and glory of being in the middle of historic Istanbul.” Some people will prefer Sultanahmet, as price isn’t always the deciding factor.
cheers!
Interesting I would agree about Sultan ahmet, I I'm gonn atravel there soon hopefully. In my famlies case we really want to be as close to Ayasofya as possible so we can do our prayers as many times as possible there, especially the morning prayer I believe would be magical here. So stayingg in Sultan Ahmet can be more reasonable for some I believe.
Otherwise I have had friends stay in Kadiköy and ûmraniye and they loved it!
I am glad to know more about the Asian side. I have only been to Kadikoy and enjoyed it but would like to explore more areas and take the walk along the Asian side you suggested. I stayed in Karakoy once, but I love staying in Sultanahmet - walking across the park in the morning or evening with the beautiful fountain and people relaxing with their families. Walking back to my hotel at night with the silouettes of the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sofia is one of my favorite things about Istanbul. I always stay at a hotel that has a breakfast room at the top - usually with a terrace so you have a wonderful view of the water while you eat breakfast. Maybe once I explore the Asian side I will change my mind about where is the best place to stay.
As a mature person who loves history and beauty and wants to sleep and not party at night, Sultanahmet is where I always stay. I have been all over Istanbul and still prefer "my" centrally located friendly hotel with its top floor restaurant and rooftop terrace with fantastic views. I love running down to Aya Sofia and through the park to the Blue Mosque early in the morning, and walking the cobblestoned streets and alleys down to explore less touristy areas and then taking the tram back up. I used to take the metro to Sultanahmet from Ataturk airport...first ride in on a clear night in December was just magical...seagulls flying around the lighted minarets at the mosques...The bus ride in from the new airport is just blah in comparison. One tip for newcomers: avoid going to Istanbul when the Saudis come for their holidays, and try to avoid Chinese tour groups!
Please, you go there for business or for tourist? Thanks
@@georgiaroarwell9737 please recommend affordable accomodation- thanks.
Excellent! So helpful. Thanks! Love seeing the map as you speak.
Your voice is good for podcast.. so relaxing
Thank you very much :)
Nice video, thank you! One positive out of this Covid time is that I can now afford to stay in the historical Istanbul area. I have a lovely family apartment for half price, and will probably end up staying in it for my three month visa period. My hotel is just off Piyer Loti Caddesi, on the edge of the shoe manufacturing area, with narrow cobbled streets and lots of activity on weekdays. Going west are poorer districts where many long-stay foreigners live (Syrian, Pakistani, African, Central Asian, etc), so my location is an interesting combination of touristic/local, posh/poor. I buy most food from the supermarket, with the odd takeaway of soup or gozleme (I'm vegetarian), and the vibe is still nice in the Sultanahmet area even though tourist numbers are down.
When I went to Istanbul it was so fin I went in April 2021 and the fruits and veggies were so much better than the up they were so big
I stayed at Taksim 3 days and 3 days besides Blue Mosque and far away I loved sultanahmet! It took me 3 days only to see the old side
I stayed in Sisley, Beyoğlu, in Tuyap Hotel, but I love staying in Sultanahmet the most!))
Thank you, it was very helpful. I am going to stay in Istanbul for three days as a tourist and now I know what is important in the city.
I spent 7 days in the Sultanahmet area. it was quiet and easy access to the wonderful historic sites. Calling them "tourist sites" makes them sound like Disneyland. Istanbul has been one of the 2 or 3 major European/circum Meditrraean/Near Eastern cities for 2,000 years and has buildings and columns that are magnificent and fascinating. I spent 2 hrs or more with most sites around Sultanahmet, with an hr for a restful coffee and snack after.
We stayed in Wyndham Grand and took the ferry every day to europe from Asia side.
Sultan Ahmet blue mosque topkapi grand and spice bazar.
I went to Eyup too.
The road is quite busy area round Galata tower.
I went to kadakoy too we used the ferry and metro.
Enjoyed our stay visited all the places you have circled.
The weather was nice the food was lovely so were the people.
hi there, Wyndham Grand hotel , is it a good hotel?
We are going in January for six days and I am thinking of staying in Kadiköy
Would it make sense to stay there are move to European side every day ?
Good video but not a fair review of the old area or Sultanahmet area. Im a big fan esp of Sirkeci. 1st , place choice depends pupose and interest: fashion shopping, night life or just to be surrounded by history and shop Turkish products. I visit every year & cant get enough of The old town area. Sooo beautiful and really so much to do in addition to very easy access to all areas. My #2 is Nishantashi is a great area, different or europian with a Turkish touch . #3 Uskudar: so original and authentic but no good choices to stay. I agree that the Asian is the better area ( would love to live there) but not for visitors. 🙏🙏🙏
just finished a month in Istanbul stayed in Sultanahmet small family hotel 50 per night..level streets to the tram best exchange rate..enjoyed the asian side but lacks the museums, antique stores, markets that I find on the European side..every hotel in taxim is on a sharp hill and I have been bait and switched twice there...for sultanhamet prices...but anywhere in Istanbul is magic
I always stay close to Galata as i like familiarity but it’s also perfect positioning to get around. My only tip is don’t stay close to mosque because of the early morning call to prayer - unless you want that of course!
Thanks for your info, but my favourite place to stay is sultan Ahmed facing the magical blue mosque and love the Asia part...
Everybody likes different things 😊
On the first trip, closest to the Blue Mosque is best because it's overwhelming! You can cover many areas in a day
That’s a good advice if someone has been to Istanbul before and is staying for a longer time. But if someone is going for 2-4 days for the first time and wants to see the key tourist areas, then staying on the European side is best. I would stay in sultan Ahmet over taksim unless you’re one who wants the night life. Ortakoy and Sisli are also good options on the European side
I stayed in a 4 story hotel from the top deck of which I could see the Blue Mosque. An excellent location, at least in the fall. Not expense. Easy walk to Sultanahmet, Agia Sofia, Topkapi Palace, and the Cistern. And the Hippodrome. You dismss these as "tourist sites". These are completely unique, architecturally interesting, and of great historical interest. I had a coffee outside the big Hamman across from Agia Sofia I am very glad I'd stay there. I don't know HOW you can do all these sights in one day. 2 hrs plus for each of Topkapi and Agia Sofia and Cistern. Easy to get on streetcar and easy to get to the north side and Taksim Sq. Went twice.
I've stayed there twice and absolutely LOVED it and I'd stay there again.
I’m happy you had a good time :)
I so wanted to go to istanbul Xmas 2021 but I was overwhelmed by the so many videos in UA-cam. So I ended up not going. Your video is what I needed all along. I am planning now. Thank you soooo much!
Thanks for watching, i'm glad you found it helpful
It looks like you like shopping and pubs that is why you like this area. I like Sultan Ahmet.
No, its because i don't like tourist areas :D
Just don´t understand.
I live in Moda/Kadiköy, very nice area, but can´t see what´s wrong with the Fatih area if you come here maybe first time as a tourist and want to see the main attractions. Still, Moda for me is a little bit like Paris, maybe not what first comes to mind when you think "Istanbul". And rent is not cheap here! There are cheap hostels etc.
Have you really checked it out the Fatih/main tourist area? There are actually plenty of good options nearby to stay for a couple of nights and my personal favourite restaurant Ortaklar kebab lahmacun - cheap, the best - is just a 10 min walk from the Blue Mosque.
Its just my preference, i like sultan ahmet for 2 days but when i go on holiday i prefer getting lost in the streets and going to local cafes/restaurants. Everybody is different, this is just my opinion :)
BTW, what I really appreciate about your videos is that you're not showing to much in the way of photos/videos. I need to research information but I want to not feel like the city or the experience is being spoiled for me before I arrive. I've really enjoyed going through your videos and learning a lot but I feel like I'm still going to see things with a fresh pair of eyes and not already seen it because I watched too many youtube videos.
Very interesting point, thanks for watching :)
this video is helpful even after i fully booked where I stayed cuz it gives a nice general overview of where things are as opposed to figuring out each one, 1 by 1 then planning a route. I wish I watched it earlier b4 figuring it all out
Thank you.....my problem is I ve fallen in love with Istanbul....I'll burn my fingers knowingly.
Walking from Taksim to Eminonu already used up all my energy hehe
Hello, thanks for taking out the time and go over the beautiful place of Türkiye Istanbul.
Fantastic video, extremely helpfull. Going for the first time. Watched so many videos to get the information explained in this in detail. Well done to the creator. Very helpfull.
I did the exact same thing. I got to walk around local neighborhoods with no tourist. It was calm and clean. The best way to see a country is to avoid tourist areas because they are not a goo representation of the people or the life
Yes there are always be touristy scams , all fake , all bars alcohols with lots of Natashas
And You will not be able to hookup with these natashas
Do sports daily and go after different girls
If I want quick sex I can pay and much ease
Thank you for your clear advices. I was one time in Istambuł. and I made this mistakle to stay near The grand Bazar. There was a crowd of prople 24 hours a day.. Istambul is amazing in my opinion. The one disadventage is that is difficult to move usig Walking sticks. Many places miss the bannister to hold. I definitely want to visit this city again. I will stay in Asia side
I am a professional tour guide in IstanbuI. I always recommend people to avoid Sultanahmet for staying, but to stay in Taksim, Galata area. The historical part, Sultan Ahmet area does not have moderately priced nice hotels or restaurants. Yes , the major sights are there but after the visiting hours of the sights, no nice and local places to go, to experience genuine food or drinks. Besides there are people hassle tourists offering free service for getting around but they are working for nearby touristic shops and mostly targeting solo travelers..So, l agree with you don’t stay there at SultanAhmet…
Thank you 😊
how to contact you?
Tourist here: I completely disagree. I stayed in Sultanahmet and the proximity of all the stuff I wanted to see is important. I only took metro to Beyoglu but everything else I could see by simply walking around Sultanahmet and thats why its perfect for tourists. Keep in mind that tourists love walking around, not travel between sights ffs.
How do i reach you? I am coming to istanbul on 16th feb
@@MindLukas now now child!!!
Staying at Sultanahmet area gives you the opportunity to visit historical places everyday. Hence Id always stay there
I fully agree and I strongly recommend first time visitors specially to try stay in Sultan Ahmet area and see all the really important sights .
Thank you; you really gave us an all-encompassing information about where to stay in Istanbul.
This is the best vedio i have seen for staying . I was soo confused about accommodation. It really really help me out . ❤
Thank you. I will visit Istanbul in June. And I found that your channel is very useful
Thanks for watching
Thank you for this video, all of your information and the maps and drawings, they really help👍😀
I am so excited to visit Istanbul for my 40th birthday this summer! I plan to alternate my days by doing a ton of walking one day, then relaxing the day after. For my slow days, I imagine being by the water with great waiter service and just really do nothing. Is there a hotel or day club where I could do this? if not, is there another option for 4 ladies to just do nothing? Maybe a booze cruise, all-day arab bath?
Thanks for breaking it down, made it very easy to understand traveling for the first time to Istanbul.
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Thank you for watching this video. If this is your first time watching please don't forget to subscribe... Thank you very much 🤩
I visited Istanbul many times, and your recommendations make sense.
very very helpful. The most detailed and easy to understand guide to visiting istanbul
Thank you for your time!
You answered lot of questions in less than 10 minutes.
Going to Istambul in September.
Thank you!!
Unless you have NO interest in history and architectural beauty, stay near Sultanahmet. I spent 6 nights there and didnt even enter the Blue Mosque (no time) or the Suleiman Mosque. I spent 2 hrs min. Agia Sofia, and Topkapi and the Archaeol. Museum. An hr in the Cistern where part of From Russia with love was filmed. The historic Hippodrome with an Egyptian obelisk and the 3 serpent column from Delphi. It was 50% locals when I was there (Fall 2014). Easy to catch the street car to Taksim.
@@granthurlburt4062 thank you!!
Thank you for posting this video. It has helped me to decide where to vacate on a long term view.
Further north, Kurucesme, Arnavutkoy, and Bebek are also very nice, lots of greenery, good restaurants, cocktail bars, and terraces on the Bosphorus. Coming home in the evening on the ferry from Eminonu after a busy day is a magical experience.
Thanks to God first and you because I was just about to book my hotel for my family in sultan Ahmed and then after I watched your video I changed it to kadikoi.
I hope you enjoy it
Excellent, I have seen several video but the way you explain is really nice, thank you.
Most helpful video!!! Thank you so much!!! I was literally lost until now!!
I totally agree with you, but Sultanahmet is not that bad! It is at least quiet and we had a wonderful small boutique hotel with great view on the Bosphorus. Yes, good food is difficult to find - but I would recommend restaurants Giritli and Balikci Sabahattin. A sundowner on the rooftop of the Seven Hills-hotel gave me goose bumps, what a view! I do not like Taksim! Too noisy, too crowded and not very beautiful....
Hi Clare...can I asked where you stayed?? I did check out your suggestion for the Seven Hills Hotel. It's much too expensive but the rooftop looks amazing. Did you eat at the seafood restaurant there? Thanks.
Ye I don’t recommend taksim anymore. I’m glad you had a nice time
@@killerqueen1148 Sorry for my late reply. I‘ve stayed at ‚Rumours Inn‘ in Sultanahmet, which I can highly recommend. It has also a nice rooftop area. For ‚Balikci Sabahattin‘ and ‚Ahirkapi Balikci‘….
what is balikci sabahattin?
ahirkapi balikci???
Thank you So Much for the information. I had No idea, but you have Explained it Very Well. You now have a New subscriber. Greetings from Ireland ☘✌.
Notice 80% of experienced travellers here completely disagree, including me. In the fall it wasnt busy or noisy. I spent 7 days nr Sultanahmet and would again.
Thx a millions bro.We are coming to turkey in may 2022.Your video is very very helpful for us to get the overall view of istanbul.
Keep up the good video.May God bless you n family
Thank you. This was very helpful. I have visited Istanbul in 2019 and found the hotel very expensive. Yes, I was in central Istanbul. I just wish I had seen your video before. I am planning another trip just to Istanbul for a week in March. Appreciate your advice.
The most informative and honest video about Istanbul I watched so far. I'm visiting Istanbul end of this mond, wish me fun👍😁 and thank you
I hope you have a great time, thanks for watching
Harikaaaaa!!! I loved your your idea! And your sketch !!!! That really helps !!!!!
Thanks alot for this.
I now feel informed enough to go ahead & make hotel/outing decisions! Much appreciated 🙂👍🏻
Super excellent. Last Over the last 2 years I have seen a lot of vdo coming to Istanbul for information. Today I got all the information in my mind. Thank you very much.👍
One of the useful videos out of 10-15 videos I watched.
I think your analysis of the areas to stay in Istanbul is quite subjective! Besides, seeing everything there is to see in one day is certainly not advisable. That is why I avoid tours which rush through the places visited and scratch the surface!
Where to stay is an individual choice, a personsl choice. Not everyone who visits Istanbul is looking to party and, hence, an active nightlife might not be what they're looking for. There are some of us who wouldn't want to see all those places you mentioned in one day!! If we did, we would be rushing through it all and after a while our recollections of those places would be a blur. There is so much to see and do in Istanbul, I would give it the time it deserves. In addition to the places mentioned in this channel in the Sultanahmet area, there is the Topkapi Palace, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, the Basilica Cistern, to name a few, and they're all very convenient to visit if you're staying in the Sultanahmet neighborhood.
I stayed in the Sultanahmet neighborhood during my recent visit to Istanbul and I enjoyed walking past the Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia every evening and seeing the fountains at play and the illumination of the area. I also found it very convenient to take the tram and the ferries/cruises plying the Bosphorus and Golden Horn. Another area that I enjoyed staying in was Sirkeci which is very near to all the above mentioned sights.
I also stayed in Karaköy and while my hotel was less than a 5-minute walk from the Galata Tower, I found all the uphill and downhill walking, and climbing all those steps in the streets leading to the tower very draining. So, that was the area I would refrain from staying in if I were to visit Istanbul again. Another neighborhood I stayed in was Üsküdar and while that was convenient to seeing the sights on the Asian side, I preferred staying in Sirkeci and the Sultanahmet neighborhood.
So, I'd like to remind people who watch this video that there is no 'one size fits all' area. Remember that the area I like or the area that this UA-camr likes might not be what you like. Do your research and pick the area that best fits your needs!
I thoroughly enjoyed sirkice it’s so close to sultanahmet. We stayed in sirkice and would travel to sultanahmet. I prefer the historical places and the hustle and bustle of the streets. It was so nice. I loved it
Bardzo rozsądna opinia. Będę w Stambule za tydzień. Pozdrawiam z Polski.
This what we are looking for review, really very helpful & hones with crystal clear information. After showing many review in UA-cam.
Thanks for watching
The most helpful video I have seen ,so far . planning to visit Turkey. Thanks a lot , brother
I am in Istanbul next weekend. What should i visit on Asian side? Shortly. Please help. 😊i have Plan to take a boat from Sirkeci to Harem. And whats your opinion? Is it better to take Halva and magnets on Asian side or Istikal? And how to pay taxi from airport? In euros or change the money on airport? Thank you.
Thanks for the beautiful and precise information, cos I heard lots of things that happened. Your information is very useful.
The most descriptive video! The way you explained using the map is perfect 👍🏼
Thanks for watching :)
I agree, I stayed in fatih area and it was beautiful, but very touristic and expensive. You also get annoyed by the shop owners who want to sell you something. Kadikoy was more local and cheap and very nice place to hang out
Just finished a week in Kadikoy! Loved it!!!
How was the transportation to/from Sultanmehemet?
@@nitinshukla3752 I didn't go there. I went to Istanbul this time to eat and relax, not to do all the tourist sites. I had an AWESOME time!! I enjoyed the ferry. It was easy to understand and very economic. The subway is beautiful and economic and easy to navigate. I had issues with the bus, though. It wasn't so easy to understand for me. We used Uber for the taxis, which were a good price as well.
@ sounds like you had an awesome trip! Would love to hear your restaurant recommendations
@@nitinshukla3752 ua-cam.com/video/Jlj_AFbhqc0/v-deo.html
@@nitinshukla3752 It's called DAMLA! You can bring it up on Google once you get there. That's how we found it. The food is AWESOME!!! I'm vegetarian. My husband is not. We ate there three days. Two were on my birthday :) But truth be told, there are too many places to choose from. I feel like your choices are unlimited and we only scratched the surface, which is why I'm obligated to back and give everything a fair shot!
Really great advice, many thanks! I plan to visit soon. I had my sights on Istanbul for a long time and its now or never. What a fascinating place. I don't like pricey hotels, I want a dirt cheap hotel but clean and quiet and with local color and people, authentic restaurants for locals, not tourists. I also love ferries, so this should be nice - taking the ferry daily. What about traditional handicrafts, old jewelry - where do you find that in less touristy places?
In India, there is always a Chandni Chowk area that sells silver. Almost every large city has one. The locals go there to buy and sell silver jewelry, so that is where you go, not the expensive Cottage Industry Emporiums for tourists. I want to find something similar for Turkey.
For jewelery even locals go to grand bazaar, it is the best for any kind of hewelery. I am turkish and i bought my wedding golds all from there
I LOVE this video.
THANK YOU for posting this.
I'm currently researching how to get around and where to stay in Turkey.
Thanks for watching :)
@@IstanbulHacks Watching Part 2 right now.
Thank you so much. I am going to Istanbul in June and for months I have been wondering where to stay. Almost every website advises Sultanahmet. And it's so pricey.
Great video. I looked at all of your videos. Helpful in planning my trip. Thanks!
Thanks for the suggestion, it's very helpful. Originally I'll be staying in a hotel which is 5mins away from blue mosque, now i change my mind. I will choose hotel near galata tower or in taxim square. Thanks.
Near Galata is better, I don’t recommend taksim any more
Excellent way from map to make it more understandable. Good work 👏
You were correct. Kadikoy was pleasant, convenient and good value.
thanks for the explanation, really helps.. i already booked an apartment near taksim but i think its what i need when i stay in istanbul
Taksim is fine, im sure you will like it :)
Great content. Spent today in Kadiköy on your advice. Zero tourists!
I live in Istanbul. Istanbul is full of beauty and good mood
Hi, if for business , where is the best place to stay? Thanks
When I visited turkey last week, I stayed 2 nights in sultan Ahmet but we used to go to Taksim square for food daily. 🇮🇳
Hope you had a great time
@@IstanbulHacks it was amazing I must say best experience ever I had in any country ❤️ excellent would love to visit again and again. The best thing is the hospitality of people so friendly.
@@Mrs_Explorer_IK good to hear this bro you are always welcome to Turkey we will give you always a warm welcome with Turkish tea 😄
thanks for the no nonsense (no BS) review. will certainly plan per your suggestions. cheers
Thank you for this. I’m taking my family to Istanbul in August and actually booked in sultanahmet. I’m going to reconsider staying there now. We are also going to cappadocia then Antalya
May I know where did you finalize staying then?
I always use cordial house, sultan Ahmed! Great place!