I'm torn between staying in Sultanahmet or Taksim. It seems as if most everyone suggests staying in Sultanahmet to be closer to the sites, but the majority of the better restaurants and non-touristy bars that I've read about appear to be in Taksim. Eating and drinking are highlights of my vacations. Ideally, I'd like to be able to walk back to my hotel after a night out.

Does anyone have suggestions?

Villa Zurich looks nice enough, but I can't find any reviews from folks who've stayed there. Galata Antique Hotel and Vardar Palace are in the same price range... Any insight about these? Of course, I prefer a small place with character over a large, chain business hotel.

I love the look of Empress Zoe and Hotel Sebnem, but feel like something in the Taksim area might be better for me.

Thanks for any help you can provide!

If you enjoy more of the big "chain type" hotels then stay in Taksim. It is very upscale-it is more geared to a business traveler with all the ammenities.However,I personally loved staying in Sultanahmet to hear the calls from the Blue Mosque at night;sit on a bench in the Hippodrome area and "people watch";be close to the sights I wanted to see,etc.You already sound like you have decided to stay in Taksim?

Sultanahmet definitely has more charm and character, and you will not lack for a variety of interesting restaurants and other diversions that will satisfy your palate. Consider Barut's Majestic Hotel in Sultanahmet. There are some nice restaurants and shops along the street.

Just back from a trip to Istanbul (see my post "Turkey Trip Summary&quot and would recommend Taksim over Sultanahmet if you are interested in restaurants/bars. It is very easy to go to Sultanahmet at any time of day or evening but then at night can go to tons of fun places near Taksim. Personally, I would recommend finding a hotel in the Cihangir area - very cool. We had some good lunches in Sultanahmet but felt that there was more to choose from around Taksim, particularly on and off Istiklal and the Galata area.

Hello Vixita,
I am going to turkey, in Istanbul I am staying at the ceylan Inter-Continental in Taksim. When are you going?

Thanks for your responses. Sultanahmet certainly appears to win in terms of charm, but Taksim seems better suited to my late-night eating & drinking habits. I've found plenty of upscale, highrise business hotels in Taksim, but those aren't really my style. Can anyone suggest a place in that neighborhood with more local character?
Sen28, the Cihagir area you mentioned sounds perfect. Any specific restaurants and/or bars that blew you away?
Patty, I'll be in Turkey from mid-September until mid-October, traveling from Istanbul to Cappadocia, Kas, Ephesus/Selcuk, and back to Istanbul. I'm also hoping to hit a Greek island or two. When will you be in Turkey? Are you just staying in Istanbul?

Vixita-I'm going to many places in turkey & not just istanbul. I leave for istanbul on september 4 arriving on the 5th until september 25-trying to get in to THE top beach resort in turkey. I'm hitting all the places you are-which islands in greece?

There are some small but luxuary hotels in Taxim area too and not belonging any chain.
Pattysuericia, may I ask which TOP resort you are going to stay in ? very curious

Have wonderful time in Turkey.

the cihangir area is mostly residential, but with some nice cafes and restaurants (didn't see too many bars). don't remember names, but if you walk around that area, you can find these pretty easily. you can also try the fifth floor (www.5kat.com) bar/restaurant in cihangir across from german hospital - very hip and great views.

Propertravel: Can you please recommend some really nice boutique hotels in Taksim? Thanks in advance.
It's called Hillside Beach Club

Hi pattysuericia,

There is no boutique hotels in Taksim. Most hotels in taksim are 3 to 5 stars hotels.

Sinan Akdeniz

Germir Palace Hotel www.germirpalace.com
Taxim suites www.taximsuites.com ( usually good for long stays and its definately boutique )
Hillside beach Club is a nice & big resort with own bay and good facilities. Very inn within Turkish society.

have a wonderful time in turkey. should you have any questions about hotels feel free to ask. I visit about 200 hotels every year
[email protected]

Hello Proper travel-My agent has sent over 4 messages to Hillside & they are not answering. What is another outstanding hotel on the medit. with a great beach in fethiye. Thanks again & please do get back to me. Can't understand it.
Hi Sinan

Proper travel-how does hotel meri compare to hillside? Thanks again

vixita ;I have written you an e-mail and hope it helps.

Regards

Hi pattysuericia

How are you. I hope your are ready for your trip.If you want to go to Medit, there are many hotels or holiday villages its up to your budget.

Sinan Akdeniz
[email protected]

Hi Sinan, Looking forward to it to. Would like a hotel that is on the beach(medit)-a top beach with a really "nice" hotel. Thanks in advance

Vixita-My schedule has changed so perhaps we can meet. Can I have your e-mail address?

Dear Vixita,
Taksim Area
If you prefer luxury hotels;Swisshotel and Ritz Carlton
If you want to feel the history and stay in the heart of nightlife area;Pera Palas Hotel
If you prefer 3star;Savoy Hotel or Richmond Hotel.
Near Pera Palas Hotel there is a building called NU PERA.Have a drink at the roof NU TERAS with a wonderful view.
Enjoy your stay

Thank you also Banu-good information. Hoping to reach Vixita