Budget Hotels Istanbul

All travelers who visit Istanbul should know the difference between a budget and a boutique hotel. Budget hotels are usually a 2 star and a boutique hotel is usually a 3 star or higher rated hotel. Istanbul has lot of hotels in both categories but, unfortunately, not all adhere to this star classification. The price of decent boutique hotels in Istanbul also varies from $50 – $100 per night and sometimes higher. While most of the high end hotels are decent, there are also some great boutique hotels available at the lower prices.

In most cases, you will find that the boutique hotels are located on congested streets, the décor is simple and most rooms have been pretty heavily used. One should not complain a lot because if you pay $60 for a room in major metropolis like Istanbul, then you should not be expecting the Trump Plaza next door. The other thing about boutique hotels in Istanbul is that they are not meant for people who have families. These hotels are more suited for the back pack traveler who wants to quickly see Istanbul and be out in a few days. In general, boutique  hotels are best enjoyed for sleeping and spending the rest of the time sightseeing.

Some of the few boutique hotels which may surprise you include the Residence Hotel. This small hotel has excellent service and offers all the amenities that one can possibly want. At $60 a night, it is worth the price.

Petrol Palace Hotel, Istanbul

The Petrol Hotel Palace in the Sultanahmet district is probably one of the best boutique hotels in Istanbul for a decent price. Surrounded by lots of shopping areas and great cafes,  this gem of a hotel is worth the price from 59 Euros per night for a single. The Petrol Hotel Palace is located at Divanyolu Caddesi, Eminpasa Sokak. No: 4 There is a restaurant and café on the rooftop.  Named the Petrol Café, it is one of the hot spots as far as cafes go in Istanbul. Within walking distance are all the major historic sites on the European side of Istanbul. The hotel is known as a gay friendly hotel in Istanbul.  The hotel is a popular hotel, built on the location of the first petrol station in Istanbul.  There is 24 hour reception and service which is good and the rooms are spacious.

The Barin Hotel located next to the Lalei and Aksaray train stations is quiet,clean and the service is great. Ideally situated near the historic sites, you will spend no more extra money on taxi and buses. Mind you, if you are nice, the hotel also provides you with a free transfer back to the hotel which will save you another $10 in taxi fare.

The Mystique Hotel is probably the most highly recommend of all the boutique hotels. Located right in the center of downtown, it has clean rooms, a superb Turkish breakfast and great service.

Every boutique hotel has its pros and cons. One should remember that not only in Istanbul but everywhere in the world, the cheaper the place, the poorer the quality of service and rooms. In general, one should stay away from hotels which cost less than $50. In most cases, a great boutique hotel can be available under $80 if you look hard enough. But overall, most people who go to Istanbul, remember one thing- it is a fabulous city.