Where to Stay in Istanbul: Old Town vs. New Town?

A common question among first-time visitors to Istanbul is, “Should I stay in the Old Town or the New Town?” The answer isn’t as simple as it seems—it depends entirely on what you’re looking for and how you’d like to experience this vibrant city. However, why limit yourself? Istanbul offers many charming neighborhoods with excellent accommodations, each with its own unique atmosphere.

If you’re planning to explore Istanbul in style and comfort, hiring luxury limousine services is the way to go. This will save you time, energy, and the stress of navigating a bustling city. At DTLS Limousine & Travel, our chauffeurs are not just drivers—they’re professional concierges ready to enhance your experience. We also highly recommend pairing your chauffeur-driven services with one of our certified multilingual tour guides for a seamless and enriched exploration of Istanbul’s history and culture.

The Old Town: A Journey Through History

We recommend starting your journey in Istanbul’s Old Town, Sultanahmet, the cradle of its historical treasures. Your chauffeur will pick you up in a luxury vehicle at your desired time and take you to the heart of Istanbul’s historic district. If you’ve arranged for a tour guide, they will accompany you from your hotel, ensuring a deeper understanding of the landmarks.

Highlights of the Old Town include:

Hagia Sophia: A 6th-century Greek Orthodox Church turned mosque in 1453 and now a museum, showcasing stunning Byzantine and Ottoman artistry.
Blue Mosque: Known for its breathtaking blue tiles and 17th-century Ottoman architecture.
Hippodrome: The center of entertainment, sports, and political discourse during the Byzantine Empire.
Topkapi Palace: The opulent residence of Ottoman sultans for over four centuries, now a museum displaying priceless artifacts.
Grand Bazaar: One of the world’s oldest and largest markets, brimming with gold, jewelry, carpets, and souvenirs.
Basilica Cistern: An ancient underground water storage system turned into a popular tourist attraction.

As Sultanahmet is pedestrian-only, your chauffeur will wait nearby, ready to pick you up whenever you’re ready to move on.

The New Town: A Modern Vibe

After exploring the Old Town, the New Town is where Istanbul’s modern culture thrives. The Galata-Karaköy area, historically the port of entry for foreigners in Constantinople, offers a unique blend of history and modernity.

Key attractions include:

Galata Tower: Built in 1348, it provides a stunning 360-degree view of Istanbul’s skyline.
Boutique Cafés and Shops: The area is known for its trendy coffee shops, art galleries, and boutique stores.
Art Museums: Istanbul Modern and other galleries make this neighborhood a hub for art lovers.

Galata has long been a hub for trade, art, and culture. Even today, the area is home to expats, artists, and musicians, making it a vibrant place to explore.

Making the Most of Your Visit

Whether you choose to start in the Old Town or the New Town, luxury limousine services combined with certified tour guides ensure a flawless and enjoyable experience. Our chauffeurs are well-trained to navigate Istanbul’s challenging traffic and assist you in making the most of your time. Paired with our guides, you can skip the long queues at popular landmarks and enjoy a stress-free day.

To add even more luxury to your visit, consider a private yacht tour along the Bosphorus, complete with fine dining stops at some of Istanbul’s top waterfront restaurants. These tailor-made experiences define the kind of personalized service DTLS Limousine & Travel offers, ensuring your journey is unforgettable.

Conclusion

Istanbul is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a leisure traveler. At DTLS Limousine & Travel, we pride ourselves on delivering premium luxury transportation services and personalized experiences. Let us guide you through the best of Istanbul—Old Town, New Town, and beyond—while you relax in the comfort of our luxury fleet.

Let us help you turn your visit into an extraordinary experience. Contact us today to plan your bespoke itinerary!