Istanbul Accommodation

As the former capital – Istanbul is brimming with history and culture, offering some of the finest and most diverse examples of architecture in the world along with a wealth of important historical buildings and exciting art galleries for you to explore, and it’s all within easy reach of your Istanbul accommodation. Istanbul is becoming increasingly more cosmopolitan offering visitors staying in accommodation in Istanbul an array of fashionable bars, a vibrant music scene and alluring designer boutiques.

Thanks to its prime location, Istanbul has always been an important centre for business and remains today the financial heart of Turkey. Because of this the city attracts a large number of business travellers to its shores each year. When visiting for business Istanbul accommodation provides the perfect base, giving you a convenient location and a welcome retreat in which to work, rest and play.

Once you have seen the sights, exhausted the shops and toured the museums, danced the night away in the clubs, drunk coffee in a pavement café and relaxed in a Turkish Bath and still have some time to spare why not head out from your accommodation in Istanbul and visit the nearby Princes’ Islands for scenic picnic or Sile to relax on the beach before heading back to the comfort of your Istanbul accommodation for a well deserved rest.

Did You Know?

Istanbul is the only city in the world to be situated on two continents. Split by the Bosphorus Strait the western part of the city is in Europe and the eastern part is in Asia.

Climate/Weather

Istanbul’s climate is generally Mediterranean but is affected by climatic variation due to its location. Spring and autumn are warm and sunny, winter is cold and summer is hot. Temperatures average 27°c (80.6°f) in summer and 7°c (44.6°f) in winter. 

Sightseeing

Due to its long and varied history Istanbul boasts a whole host of sights and attractions for you to explore. Here are some of the highlights:

•    Aya Sofya (Haghia Sofia) – or The Church of Divine Wisdom as it is also known, is considered to the finest example of Byzantine architecture in the world.

•    Topkapi Palace – one of the top sights in the city.

•    Sultanahmet Camii (Blue Mosque) – one of the most iconic buildings in Istanbul.

•    Taksim Square – the heart of the modern European side. The 1.5km (one mile) pedestrianised boulevard features the Monument of Independence as well as countless shops, cinemas, markets and restaurants.

•    Yerebatan Sarayi (Basilica Cistern) – also known as the Sunken Palace, this former reservoir is a huge atmospheric structure and the setting for the famous Bond film From Russia with Love.

Getting Around

Istanbul boasts a comprehensive transport network that covers the entire city.

•    Metro – runs all over the city centre.

•    Funicular metro – two lines operate within the city with the newer line linking Kabatas to Taksim.

•    Tramway – with three lines operating on the European side it’s a great way to get around.

•    Ferry – passenger ferries criss-cross the waterways and offer a very pleasant and efficient way to travel.

Eat/Drink

When visiting Istanbul you will be overwhelmed by how much delicious cuisine is on offer. Be sure to try some local specialities such as:

•    Döner – popular all over the world, this spit-cooked lamb is sliced to order and served in a number of ways. Enjoy it the Istanbul way with topped grated Kasar cheese, wrapped then toasted.

•    Balik-Ekmek – fried fish served in bread with tomatoes and onion. It’s a local favourite.

•    Patso – a type of sandwich which consists of hotdog and fries.

•    Simit – available from vendors across the city this warm bread is a great snack.

•    Lokum (Turkish delight) – the famous sweet is available in a variety of types and flavours.

•    Raki – traditional alcoholic drink flavoured with anise.