where to stay in istanbul sultanahmet or beyoglu?

[TravelGirl]

Deciding whether to stay in Sultanahmet or Beyoglu depends on what you are looking for in your trip to Istanbul.

Sultanahmet is the historic heart of Istanbul, and if you want to be close to the major tourist sites like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace, it is the perfect place to stay. You'll be able to walk to most of the city's major attractions, and there are plenty of hotels and guesthouses to choose from, ranging from budget to luxury. However, Sultanahmet can be quite crowded and touristy, and you might have to deal with street vendors and touts trying to sell you souvenirs or tours.

Beyoglu, on the other hand, is a trendy and bohemian neighborhood located on the European side of the city. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife, artsy vibe, and diverse dining options. If you want to experience the hip and modern side of Istanbul, Beyoglu is the place to be. You'll find plenty of boutique hotels, trendy cafes, and bars, and Istiklal Avenue, a bustling pedestrian street, is just a short walk away. However, Beyoglu is further away from the major tourist sites, and you'll need to take a taxi or public transport to get to Sultanahmet.

Ultimately, it depends on your preferences and what you want to get out of your trip to Istanbul. If you're interested in exploring Istanbul's history and want to be close to the major tourist sites, Sultanahmet is the better choice. If you're looking for a trendy and vibrant neighborhood with great nightlife and dining options, Beyoglu is the way to go.