Lonely Planet İstanbul Guide

Sleeping Accommodation choices in İstanbul are diverse and plentiful. During peak tourism periods such as spring, autumn and Christmas it’s important to book ahead. A Boutique hotels The city’s fastest-growing hotel trend; often in historic buildings and usually with high levels of service and amenities. A Suite hotels Spacious rooms with kitchenettes, daily maid service and stylish fittings; great for families. A Hotels Everything from small family-run pansiyons (pensions) to slick business hotels; mid range options predominate. A Luxury hotels World-class options mostly located in Beyoğlu and along the Bosphorus. A Hostels Small and friendly options in Sultanahmet, Beyoğlu and Kadıköy; most offer both dorms and private rooms. Safe Travel A Political tensions within Turkey led to a violent, ultimately unsuccessful military coup d’état in 2016. There have also been terrorist incidents including bomb attacks in areas and facilities frequented by tourists. Visitors should monitor their country’s travel advisories and stay alert at all times. A Always employ common sense when exploring city neighbourhoods. Be particularly careful near the historic city walls, as these harbour vagrants and people with substance-abuse problems – don’t walk here alone or after dark. A As a pedestrian, always give way to vehicles; the sovereignty of the pedestrian is recognised in law but not out on the street. Footpaths (sidewalks) and road surfaces are often in a poorly maintained state and some shops have basements that are accessed from the footpath via steep steps without barriers – watch where you are walking!

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