Best 3-Star Hotels in Istanbul

Istanbul‘s good 3-star hotels in the best hotel districtsare the thrifty traveler’s choice.

For TL95 to TL200 you get a comfortable two-person guest room with private bathroom, nice decor, and sometimes even such 4-star services as minibars or refrigerators, satellite TVs, wireless (Wifi) Internet connections, and air conditioning.

You can’t depend on there being many other services (elevator/lift, restaurant)—but there may be.

Look for 3-star hotels in Sultanahmet, although there are some in other parts of the city as well. My favorites:

Sultan’s Inn

A long-standing popular choice among Istanbul hotels, it’s hidden off Küçük Ayasofya Caddesi which runs straight up a gentle slope to the main sights of Sultanahmet. More…

Deniz Houses

This ‘Sea Houses’ is an inviting small Istanbul hotel tucked away down a side street away from the main hustle of Sultanahmet but just a pleasant ten-minute stroll away from the main sights. More…

Hotel İlkay

A convenient Sirkeci location, a great pub-restaurantnext door, and excellent management. More…

Naz Wooden House

This tiny (7-room) inn was built right up against a stretch of Byzantine wall, so ancient stonework is part of the hotel decor. On a quiet street in a real Istanbul neighborhood, it’s only a 10-minute walk from the major sights. More…

Hotel Yunus Emre

Family-run, quiet, convenient to restaurants and close to the Hippodrome and all its sights, the Yunus Emre gives you a lot for your money. More…

Apricot Hotel

Among my favorites in this price range, with good location, good services and comforts, and great value for money. Now there are even studio apartments. More…

There are also several good three-stars in Sirkeci. Many can be reserved through Booking.com.

For the best budget lodgings, use this handy Hotel Search Box to find inexpensive to moderately-priced hotels as well as hostels and guest houses:

—by Tom Brosnahan