The 10 Top Airbnbs in Istanbul

THE 10 TOP AIRBNBS IN ISTANBUL

Ready to book some of the best accommodation options in Turkey? Here’s our pick of the best Airbnbs in Istanbul, listed and reviewed for you to select your favourite:

Overall Best Value Airbnb in Istanbul | A Cosy city house in Istanbul

950 TL for one night

This light and airy entire rental unit is perfectly situated in the heart of Taksim and sleeps up to four guests. It’s perhaps the best Airbnb in Istanbul, especially given its fantastic location. It’s a great apartment within walking distance of Taksim Square and the Galata Tower.

It’s just a few minutes walk from the subway, so you can easily travel throughout Istanbul. As fascinating as Taksim is, there is a lot more to see in this ancient city and it’s all accessible from this amazing location!

There’s a fully equipped kitchen, dishwasher and laundry facilities as well as air conditioning, smart TV and free parking.

Best Airbnb on the Asian Side of Istanbul (Kadikoy) | Lovely apartment in great location

Many travellers overlook the vibrant Asian side of Istanbul and I’ll tell you right now; that’s a big mistake because it’s an awesome location. This entire rental unit is just around the corner from the best bars, restaurants, and grocery stores in the happening Kadikoy neighbourhood.

The Kadikoy neighbourhood is one of Istanbul’s coolest areas. If you want to truly experience what it’s like to live like a local in Istanbul, this spacious, bright, third-floor apartment provides the perfect base.

Everything you need is here for a longer-term stay (if you are a digital nomad). The kitchen is well stocked, there is a big fridge and washing machine. There are multiple places to work and the internet works better here than it did in other Western European city apartments I have rented in the past! My favourite part of the apartment is the sunny balcony, which faces a green garden area filled with big trees and flowers.

Even though the apartment is located directly in the heart of Kadikoy, it still has a peaceful vibe and street noise isn’t a problem.

It’s in a convenient location with public transport options nearby include the bus and ferries, making it super easy to move around or get to some of the main points of interest on the European side.

Best Budget Airbnb in Istanbul | Comfy and Peaceful Double Room

This double room is perfectly located within walking distance of the ever-popular Cafe de Noix and Babel Cafe, so you can enjoy the cafe culture of Turkey. If not, then grab a takeaway and return to the apartment to sit on its balcony and sun in peace!

If you’re wanting to comfortably experience Istanbul, but you’re a little strapped for cash or prefer to spend your budget elsewhere, then this is the spot for you.

This Airbnb offers a private room and bathroom in an apartment, unlike a shared bunk bed in a hostel dorm.

There is a full shared kitchen, so you can further your resources by cooking at home. Though we do suggest that you get in a little Turkish street food when you can!

This home is away from the noise and bustle, it might be in a quieter area but it’s still a great location close to Besiktas, Mecidiyeköy and Taksim Square.

Best Airbnb for Solo Travellers | Industrial Designed Studio in Eminonu

This gorgeous loft is stylish and has plenty of amenities to ensure you’re comfortable for a short or long-term stay. It’s small but cosy and it’s ideally suited to a couple.

You’ll be perfectly situated to explore the Old City, and it’s within walking distance of Sultanahmet Square, the Basilica Cistern and the Blue Mosque! It’s literally in the perfect location to see all the main sights.

However, you might find it difficult to leave this tasteful, insta-worthy apartment and the confines of its comfy bed. When you do you can even cook tasty meals right there or order room service! Just remember to drag yourselves out because you really are in an unbeatable location!

Best Short-Term Rental for Couples | Penthouse Loft with Amazing Views

You will feel right at home in this comfortable loft in an amazing location. It is located in a quiet suburban area, but with easy access to public transport, so that you can be right back in the hub whenever you feel like a little exciting chaos!

The penthouse is furnished with homelike comforts and offers a separate living room and bedroom. There’s even a work desk where you can skype family at home, or do a little work. You can admire the views from this great location overlooking the Princes Islands right from your laptop!

Couples can cook together in the kitchen and then take their meals out onto the deck for a quiet, scenic dinner. There’s a private entrance for guests and an elevator to get you up to your accommodation.

Best Airbnb in Istanbul for Families | Relaxing 2 Bedroom with Balcony

It isn’t always easy to find family-orientated accommodation in this city of culture and history. But if you have children and a baby with you, we know you will want a safe and entertaining space for them.

This apartment is in a great location just a stone’s throw from Galata Tower and within walking distance of Taksim Square. It’s super easy to explore the city from here!

It’s fully equipped for your family with a crib, baby bath, changer, children’s books and toys, and even table corner guards, it could not get any less stressful! The owner is even equipped with babysitter recommendations!

The safety features are also top-notch, and there is a first-aid kit provided. So get ready to relax, because your children will be happy and healthy here.

Best Large Loft On Airbnb in Istanbul | 19th Century Luxury Loft

With 19th-century frescos having been painstakingly restored throughout the spacious loft, you will be transported through time. This loft is so historically gorgeous and unique that it was featured in Art Home Magazine in 2017!

To complement its historical authenticity, there are completely modern amenities. A dreamy kitchen and modern bathroom make this space easy and comfortable, not just beautiful.

This loft is also suitable for children, they can be entertained by children’s books, toys and cable TV. There’s even a crib, to make it perfect for new family members.

The Beyoglu neighbourhood is also a great location with trendy vibes and you’ll find everything you might want a short walk from your door. It’s also not far from Taksim Square.

Best Entire House on Airbnb in Istanbul | Ottoman House w/ free Airport transfer

This  2 storey, historical house reflects traditional Ottoman architecture and has been in the same family since the 1800s. Its recent sympathetic restoration means it retained its features whilst gaining all the modern comforts you’d ever need.

So grab a couple of mates, or your whole family, for a living experience that is as much of an adventure as your explorations of the city.

It is perfectly situated in the tourist district, right on Istiklal street. So, while you will feel like you’re living in a bygone era already, you’ll easily be able to explore everything else this ancient city has to offer.

Perfect Short-Term rental for Digital Nomads | Bright and Central

This artistically rendered apartment is right in the heart of Istanbul. It’s just seconds away from the famous Istiklal street so you won’t find a more ideally-placed space. You’ll be just out of the thick of it, while able to either enter or escape the vibrancy at the drop of a hat!

Spend the time you’re not exploring enjoying the fast wifi and being productive at the laptop-friendly workspace. You can keep your caffeine intake up thanks to the small kitchenette too.

We also love how inexpensive this pretty little apartment is. So you can afford to extend your stay for as long as Istanbul holds your interest. Which we expect could be forever.

 Best Airbnb in Istanbul for Nightlife | Stylish Studio Flat

This stylish apartment is minutes away from popular bars like Divan Brasserie and Ravouna 1906 on the ever-exciting Istiklal street. The apartment is perfect for fun pre-drinks with your friends before you hit the town!

You’ll also be able to safely walk home in the early hours. We also love that you won’t have to walk up stair upon stair to get to the apartment when you’ve had a few, just hop in the elevator.

Don’t worry about being too hungover to explore your gorgeous area in the morning, as there is a sauna in the apartment. So you can just sweat it out in the morning and then seize the day.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM AIRBNBS IN ISTANBUL

Istanbul blends modernity with old-world charm. You won’t find campsites and cabins here, because space is sparse and therefore well-used. Rather, expect well-laid out apartments, lofts, and the occasional townhouse.

Airbnbs in Istanbul have generally been redone in a beautiful and charming way. They are often in very old buildings because Turkish architecture has been beautifully preserved!

The city is approximately three-thousand-years-old. While the apartment buildings and houses are nowhere near that age, it does mean that they don’t often have elevators installed. TBH though, we like the authenticity, though my knees aren’t as keen! The chance to work off the incredible Turkish food is appreciated as well!

Knowing where to stay in Istanbul is essential for a successful trip, as the city is pretty freaking massive! The many different neighbourhoods offer different vibes and attractions.

LARGE LOFT AND PENTHOUSE OVERLOOKING THE CITY

Lofts and penthouses provide you with an unrivalled view of this incredible city. From some, you can even see Galata tower from your window or balcony.

There is nothing better than sipping on your morning coffee while looking out at one of the world’s most stunning cities. Many of Istanbul’s Airbnb lofts and penthouses have floor to ceiling windows, or cute little balconies which is. a bonus.

Istanbul lofts are particularly large and many can accommodate up to four guests. So you will be sure to have a decent amount of space wherever you pick and unlike many places a flat can still house a small group.

The lofts are generally not aimed at the solo traveller. Instead, the spaces are more suitable for a romantic retreat or a getaway for a couple of besties.

Most lofts on Airbnb have a full kitchen so that you don’t have to be eating out at every meal, though Turkish food is absolutely amazing anyway. Other common amenities include WiFi, heating, and laundry facilities, which makes for an easy, stress-free trip!

ENTIRE HOUSE IN THE TOURIST CENTRE

Airbnb houses in Istanbul are generally stylishly renovated. While simultaneously being carefully preserved in order to keep Turkey’s rich history intact!

The blend of modernity with a charming history is the most unique aspect of Turkish homes. You’ll generally find a wooden staircase, sumptuous living areas, and bare brick walls.

If you have a large travel party, then a house might be the perfect option for you. Houses in Istanbul are generally multiple stories and can fit up to twelve people in their comfortable rooms.

If you’re backpacking Istanbul in a group of just two or three, but you want to feel at home in Istanbul, you are also covered. There are also some smaller houses as well.

Taksim is perhaps the best area to stay in Istanbul as there are many wonderful options there and it’s such an amazing area. The neighbourhood is tourist-orientated and very popular with great transport connections.

Whatever you’re after, you’ll find it amongst Istanbul’s Airbnb rentals. Whether that might be the stunning architecture, gorgeous restaurants, vibrant nightlife, or family-friendly activities. An entire rental unit is the perfect place for your group.

AUTHENTIC TURKISH PRIVATE APARTMENT

Istanbul’s Airbnb apartments are luxurious, well-stocked and ideally positioned in the best buzzy areas. There are so many wide-ranging options, you can get anything you’re looking for when getting a beautiful apartment in Istanbul

There are teeny apartments, work-appropriate apartments, and ones for large groups of friends or family. There’s basic, opulent, or somewhere in between! There will always be an Airbnb in Istanbul that embodies your ideal holiday accommodation!

Many apartments have artistic or authentic touches to ensure that you feel like you’re in Turkey, even when just seeing the world from your bed. Others are beautifully decorated in a modern and absolutely gorgeous fashion.

You’ll find a gorgeous apartment in most areas of the city, but the best Airbnbs in Istanbul are near Istiklal street! Here, you’ll be right by one of the most famous avenues in Turkey and can get to all of the best attractions easily.

You’ll always find a great apartment in an unbeatable location right in the city centre where Galata Tower and Taksim Square will be minutes away from your door. You’ll find the best restaurants and bars a short walk away from your lovely apartment.

However, there are many amazing districts and sights to see in Istanbul where you’ll also find yourself a beautiful apartment too. So you cannot go wrong, wherever you decide to stay in the city.

WHY STAY IN AN AIRBNB?

There are so many reasons to choose to stay in an Airbnb, but we’ll outline some for you. Just in case you need a little persuading.

Local Experience: One of our favorite aspects of an Airbnb stay is that these spaces are created by individuals. They will always have a more local feel to a hotel, because they were made with love by people with individual tastes and preferences.

Unique Properties: You can search for anything that takes your fancy. You can find a loft, house, apartment, hostel, or any other kind of property that exists in Istanbul. You can also look for specific characteristics, like a jacuzzi, a sauna, a gym, or important safety features. Istanbul Airbnbs have it all.

Staying Long-Term: If you choose to turn your vacation into more of a lifestyle, hosts can offer you long-term discounts. Also, staying in accommodation that includes comforts like a full kitchen and laundry facilities will make a long stay much more affordable and comfortable.

Affordability: Airbnbs are often cheaper than hotels of the same quality. Also, you can easily look at places in your specific budget, and find places that are of better quality, or in a more desirable area than what you would have found when just looking at hotels or hostels.

Airbnb Experiences: Airbnb has unique and authentic experiences in Istanbul that can really deepen your experience of Turkey. We’ll explore our favorites more later on, because they really add a unique aspect to any vacation.