Top 10 Istanbul hotels with the best views

Photo of author

Matthew Hillier

Last updated

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase via our links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. We value your support! Learn more.

If you’re looking for adventure, history, relaxation, and breathtaking views all in one place, Istanbul is the place to go. Turkey is a country that includes everything touristy, and with that comes some excellent hotels.  

Helpful tip

The Booking.com website is not available in Turkey so we recommend using Hotels.com or Expedia.

When you stay in a hotel, there’s nothing better than staying somewhere that shows you the country's beauty right from your room. No one wants to open a window and see an empty car park or a brick wall.

So if you want to wake up to the best views in Istanbul, we’ve gathered a list of the top 10 Istanbul hotels with the best views. 

1. Hotel Poem

First on our list is Hotel Poem, where you’ll enjoy a beautiful view on the outside and gorgeous room interiors on the inside. 

This boutique hotel is in the middle of Sultanahmet, where Hagia Sofia and Blue Mosque are within walking distance. The prime location for the top touristic sites.

You also have plenty of transportation options around the hotel to easily discover the beauty of Istanbul.

2. The Magnaura Palace Hotel

Magnaura hotel views
The Magnaura Palace Hotel
Sultanahmet
Check availability

This amazing hotel offers you the chance to discover the old town of Istanbul and all its historic glory. You’ll enjoy a view of the old Magnaura palace—hence the name of the hotel—and the Marmara Sea. 

If you’re a solo traveler, you’ll love staying in this hotel since it’s close to many noteworthy attractions in the city. It's right in the heart of the touristic area.

3. Shangri-La Bosphorus Istanbul

Shangri-la views
Shangri-La Bosphorus Istanbul
Besiktas
Check availability

If you have the budget for it you can't beat the water views of this one. This hotel is high class, luxurious and has excellent reviews from past customers.

It's a short 5-minute drive from Taksim Square and the Bosphorus Bridge (which you can also see from some of the suites).

This luxurious hotel on the edge of the Bosphorus includes 2 bar lounges, an indoor pool, and a health club.

4. World Heritage Center Hotel

World Heritage Hotel views
World Heritage Center Hotel
Sultanahmet
Check availability

This unique hotel is strategically located near Basilica Cistern, Suleymaniye Mosque, and the famous Spice Bazaar. You also get to enjoy a beautiful garden, a lounge, and a terrace looking over the beauty of Istanbul. 

As a pro tip, remember to book a room with a balcony. That way you’ll be able to enjoy your morning coffee or afternoon tea with a view. 

5. Sumahan - On the Water

Sumahan on the water views of the bridge
Sumahan - On the Water
Çengelköy
Check availability

Many years ago, this waterfront hotel used to be a historical distillery in the 19th century. It was then renovated to become a magnificent hotel by the shores of the Bosphorus Strait. 

The rooms are meticulously designed to preserve the original elements of the distillery, such as the fireplaces and the wood-beamed ceilings. 

All elements come together to give you a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. 

This hotel is on the Asian-side of Istanbul.

6. Swissotel - The Bosphorus Istanbul

View from the room of the city
Swissotel - The Bosphorus Istanbul
Macka/Besiktas
Check availability

With over 500 rooms, Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul is one of Istanbul's top hotels. It's only short distance from the famous Taksim Square and Dolmabahçe Palace.

Their rooms overlook the city, Maçka park and the Bosphorus.

If you like a bit of luxury you can get a pampering in one of their 14 spa treatment rooms or enjoy any type of food in one of their 8 restaurants.

7. The Ritz-Carlton Istanbul

A view of the city from the bath
The Ritz-Carlton Istanbul
Sisli
Check availability

Also near Taksim Square and Dolmabahçe Palace is another well known luxury hotel with amazing views.

With a well known brand such as Ritz-Carlton, you won't be disappointed. Offering many modern amenities including an indoor pool and 8 spa treatment rooms.

Some of their suites give you the opportunity to bathe in a bubble bath while enjoying the views of Istanbul.

8. Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus

Novotel Hotel - beautiful views
Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus
Karaköy
Check availability

Like the name suggests Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus is right by the water. In the heart of the foodie neighborhood of Karakoy you will have easy access to many popular restaurants and bars.

Beautiful views of the Bosphorus and the city are available in many of the rooms.

Just a short 10-minute walk and you can be at the Galata Tower - one of Istanbul's well known historical wonders.

9. Fragments Hotel

For those who want to immerse themselves in Turkish culture, this hotel is the perfect option. Its close location to Taksim Square, Galata Tower, Istanbul Museum of Modern Art, and many other attractions allows its guests to experience the beauty of Turkey on foot. 

You’ll get a chance to explore the local shops, visit plenty of museums, and indulge in all kinds of famous Turkish street food, including Midye Dolma and Lahmacun. 

As for the hotel, you find yourself waking up every day to the beautiful view of water and greenery all around you. We couldn’t possibly think of a better way to start your day. 

10. JW Marriott Hotel Istanbul, Marmara Sea

JW Marriott Hotel in Istanbul - view of the beach
JW Marriott Hotel Istanbul, Marmara Sea
Bakirköy
Check availability

Last but most definitely not least on our list is the JW Marriot by the Sea of Marmara. This hotel is relatively new but managed to land on our top 10 list. 

With a lovely view of the sea and the beach, the JW Marriott Hotel is a wonderful place to relax and unwind on your trip. Located in the neighborhood of Bakırköy, right on the edge of the Mamara Sea. With easy access to the metro line nearby.

You’ll find a fully-equipped spa center, a beautiful terrace, and overall celebrity treatment throughout your stay at the hotel.

Wrapping-up

Whether you enjoy shopping, sightseeing, or just lying back and relaxing, you’re sure to find everything you dream of in Istanbul. 

To top it off, choosing a hotel with a nice view will allow the beauty of the city to sink in and help you to enjoy every second while you’re in Turkey—yes, even your time at the hotel should be memorable!

Now that you’ve got the hotel figured out, it’s time to plan out the rest of your trip. 

Get our newsletter

Subscribe to get our latest Turkey travel tips by email.

    We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.