Best area to stay in Istanbul for first-time visitors

Liked Ottomans Life Delux hotel in the Fatih district — near Historia mall, walking distance to the Grand Bazaar and the waterfront, great location.

Also consider Hotel Glamour in the Sirkeci district — not Sultanahmet itself but close by; breakfast with a nice view, booked via Tripcom.

Sultanahmet is ideal for a first visit to Istanbul: all major attractions are within walking distance, the area is calm and safe in the evenings, and there's a wide range of hotels to choose from.

Hotel Spectra in Sultanahmet is a solid central choice — some rooms have direct views of the Blue Mosque. The hotel is modern and clean, offers a good breakfast, has Russian-speaking staff at reception, and can arrange airport transfers.

Also worth considering in Sultanahmet are Hotel Novano and Hotel Ergüvan — both are located right next to the Blue Mosque and come personally recommended.