Looking to stay in Airbnb Istanbul, Turkey, but not sure where to start? Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a long-term stay, finding the right Airbnb can be overwhelming with thousands of listings and varying quality.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know—from legal tips and top-rated vacation rentals in popular neighborhoods to luxury stays and local favorites—so you can book confidently and experience Istanbul like a local. Don’t waste hours scrolling—we’ve done the research for you.
This guide will cover:
Best Areas to Book an Airbnb in Istanbul
Istanbul is a vast and diverse city, and choosing the right neighborhood is crucial for an enjoyable stay. Whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife, historic landmarks, or local authenticity, there’s a perfect fit for every traveler.
Taksim and Beyoğlu
Taksim and Beyoğlu are among the most sought-after locations for visitors, offering a central location with vibrant energy. With numerous listings for Airbnb Turkey Istanbul Taksim, you’ll find:
- Easy access to Istiklal Street, Galata Tower, and nightlife
- Plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops
- A mix of modern and historic architecture
- Great transportation links via metro and bus
Ideal for: First-time visitors, couples, and those who want to be in the heart of the action.
Sultanahmet and Old City
This is Istanbul’s historical core, where centuries of history come alive. Booking here means staying just steps from:
- Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace
- Traditional architecture and cobblestone streets
- Classic Turkish guesthouses and apartment rentals in Istanbul
Ideal for: History lovers, cultural explorers, and photography enthusiasts.
Beşiktaş and Şişli
These neighborhoods offer a balanced mix of local life and urban convenience, making them great for more extended stays and digital nomads.
- Home to embassies, shopping malls, and trendy bars
- Excellent transportation hubs
- Home to some of the best Istanbul vacation rentals for long-term stays
Ideal for: Professionals, long-term travelers, and families.
Kadıköy and Moda
On the Asian side of the city, Kadıköy and Moda provide a more relaxed, local vibe with artsy and bohemian touches.
- Weekly markets, vintage shops, and seaside walks
- Excellent food scene and coffee culture
- Frequent ferries to the European side
Ideal for: Digital nomads, returning visitors, and those wanting a local lifestyle.
Galata and Karaköy
Historic yet modern, these areas bridge the old and new, offering charm and contemporary style.
- Close proximity to the Galata Tower and Karaköy Port
- Galleries, boutique shops, and chic cafes
- A hotspot for unique apartments and vacation rentals
Ideal for: Young travelers, artists, and architecture fans.
Airbnb Istanbul Apartments: What to Expect
When searching for Airbnb İstanbul apartments, you’ll find various rental options that cater to every type of traveler.
Types of apartments available
The city offers a mix of modern and traditional apartments, often located in beautifully restored buildings. Here’s what you can expect:
- Studio Apartments: Ideal for solo travelers or digital nomads.
- 1–2 Bedroom Flats: Great for couples or small families, often featuring full kitchens and comfortable living spaces.
- Loft Apartments: Stylish and spacious, often in areas like Galata and Karaköy.
- Luxury Penthouses: Part of the luxury Airbnb Istanbul Turkey market, these often include rooftop terraces and designer interiors.
- Villas and Houses: Perfect for families or groups seeking privacy, outdoor space, and full amenities in residential neighborhoods or near the Bosphorus.
Suitable options for different travelers
- Solo Travelers: Budget studios or co-living spaces near public transportation.
- Couples: Charming 1-bedroom flats in central neighborhoods like Taksim or Sultanahmet.
- Families: Spacious apartments, houses, or villas with multiple bedrooms and full kitchens in areas like Beşiktaş or Kadıköy.
- Remote Workers: Listings with a dedicated workspace in İstanbul, high-speed internet, and quiet surroundings.
If you’re also considering property ownership or investment in Turkey, explore Airbnb investment opportunities or learn more about buying property in Turkey.
Airbnb Istanbul, Turkey Long Term Rentals
For travelers planning to stay more than a few weeks, Airbnb Istanbul, Turkey, offers long-term rentals that are convenient, cost-effective, and flexible.
Benefits of monthly stays
Choosing a long-term Airbnb rental in Istanbul comes with several advantages:
- Discounted Rates: Most listings offer significant discounts—often 20–40%—for monthly bookings.
- Fully Furnished: Apartments typically include all essentials such as furniture, kitchenware, linens, and appliances.
- No Long-Term Commitment: Ideal for visitors who want flexibility without signing a lease.
- Utilities Included: Many hosts bundle Wi-Fi, electricity, and water into the total cost, simplifying budgeting.
Ideal neighborhoods for long-term visitors or digital nomads
Certain districts in Istanbul are particularly well-suited for extended stays:
- Beşiktaş & Şişli: Central, well-connected, and filled with amenities like coworking spaces, gyms, and cafes.
- Kadıköy: On the Asian side, this bohemian neighborhood offers a local vibe, lower costs, and easy European ferry access.
- Cihangir & Galata: Trendy areas popular among creatives and remote workers due to their charm and walkability.
- Atasehir & Üsküdar: Quiet residential zones with newer apartment complexes and family-friendly environments.
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Rental Cost Breakdown
Average pricing per night
Prices for Airbnb Istanbul apartments vary depending on location, amenities, and time of year:
- Budget Apartments: Starting around $40–$60 per night.
- Mid-Range Rentals: Typically range between $70–$120 per night.
- Luxury Stays: Can exceed $200 per night, especially in prime areas or for listings with sea views and premium amenities.
Weekly and monthly bookings often come with discounts, especially if you’re seeking a long-term Airbnb stay in Istanbul, Turkey.
Average pricing for long-term stays
Before booking a long-term Airbnb Istanbul, Turkey stay, consider the following:
Monthly Costs:
- Budget rentals: $700–$1,000/month
- Mid-range: $1,000–$1,800/month
- Luxury apartments: $2,000–$3,500+/month
How luxury Airbnbs compare to 5-star hotels
Luxury Airbnb Istanbul Turkey stays offer a different kind of experience than traditional hotels:
| Feature | Luxury Airbnb | 5-Star Hotel |
|---|---|---|
| Space | More spacious, multi-room layouts | Standard room sizes |
| Privacy | Entire property to yourself | Shared amenities and public areas |
| Local Experience | Authentic homes in residential areas | Centralized, often tourist-heavy zones |
| Cost | Competitive or lower for more space | Premium pricing for fewer amenities |
| Flexibility | Full kitchen, laundry, and living area | Limited to hotel dining and services |
Popular Amenities for Your Istanbul Vacation
One of the top reasons travelers choose Airbnb over hotels is the wide range of amenities tailored to their lifestyle and travel needs.
- Wi-Fi and dedicated workspaces: High-speed Wi-Fi, ergonomic desks and chairs, and quiet environments—perfect for video calls, large downloads, and staying productive while exploring the city.
- Family and pet-friendly options: Rentals with multiple bedrooms, child-safe layouts, and full kitchens, plus pet-friendly options in areas like Kadıköy and Beşiktaş. Many include amenities such as cribs, high chairs, and washing machines for long-term comfort.
- Properties with pools, terraces, or sea views: Private or shared pools in villas and suburban homes, terraces and balconies with views of the Bosphorus or historic mosques, and unique apartments offering architectural charm and outdoor relaxation.
- Listings near public transportation: Within walking distance of metro, tram, and ferry stations, with easy access to hubs like Taksim Square, Sirkeci, and Kadıköy Pier—perfect for exploring the city or planning day trips full of the best things to do in Turkey.
Top Attractions Near Popular Airbnb Locations
Many Airbnb Istanbul, Turkey rentals are just steps away from the city’s most famous attractions, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the city’s heart.
Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque
Located in the historic Sultanahmet district, charming vacation rentals in İstanbul surround these world-renowned landmarks that blend Ottoman architecture with modern amenities. What you can expect:
- Boutique-style Airbnb apartments with traditional features
- Easy access to Sultanahmet Square, the Hippodrome, and Basilica Cistern
- Walking distance stays ideal for first-time visitors
Grand Bazaar
One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar is a must-visit for shoppers and culture lovers. Nearby Airbnb options include:
- Cozy apartments in the Fatih and Beyazıt districts
- Great house rentals in İstanbul for families looking to explore on foot
- Listings that showcase classic Turkish interiors with a homey touch
Taksim Square
At the heart of modern Istanbul, Taksim Square offers a lively atmosphere filled with restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Many Airbnb Turkey Istanbul Taksim listings feature:
- Stylish, contemporary interiors
- Rooftop terraces with city views
- Proximity to Istiklal Street and metro connections
Highlights
- Galata Tower: Surrounded by artistic lofts and historic apartments
- Spice Bazaar & Eminönü: Great for food lovers, with market-side Airbnbs
- Topkapi Palace: Nearby rentals with views of the Bosphorus and palace gardens
Quick Stats About Airbnb in Istanbul
Understanding the current landscape of Airbnb rentals in Istanbul can help travelers make informed decisions. Here’s an overview of key statistics:
Number of listings citywide
According to 2025 data, Istanbul has approximately 33,000 active Airbnb listings, representing a 3% increase over the past year, with 8,900 family-friendly rentals, 8,600 pet-friendly properties, 3,400 rentals with a pool, and 18,000 listings offering a dedicated workspace.
Most popular times to book
The peak booking periods for Airbnb rentals in Istanbul are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to mid-November). These seasons offer mild weather and coincide with events like the Tulip Festival and the Istanbul Biennial.
Typical guest profiles
Istanbul attracts a diverse range of Airbnb guests, including:
- Solo Travelers and Couples: Often seeking short-term stays in central neighborhoods.
- Families: Looking for spacious accommodations near major attractions.
- Digital Nomads and Remote Workers: Preferring properties with dedicated workspaces and reliable internet.
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