Getting Around Istanbul
Getting around Istanbul is easy and convenient. Taxis and Uber are widely available and are often the simplest way to travel between neighborhoods and to the venue.
Public transportation is also very reliable. The tram and metro systems connect most central areas, and Sirkeci station is a major hub with access to tram, metro, and Marmaray train lines connecting both the European and Asian sides of the city.
Ferries across the Bosphorus are another beautiful and practical way to travel if you’d like to explore different parts of the city. We recommend allowing extra time for traffic, especially during peak hours, to arrive relaxed and on time for the celebration.
Istanbul Hotel Recommendations
We have selected a few favorite hotels for you. Please consider these as personal recommendations based on our local knowledge (especially regarding the hills!), but you are not limited to this list. If you find another hotel in these zones that you prefer, please feel free to book it.
We recommend choosing a hotel in one of these two areas:
1. Sirkeci (Best for easy walking) This area is at sea level and is completely flat. It is the most comfortable area for walking and has direct access to the Tram and the Marmaray train line.
2. Old Town / Sultanahmet (Historic Center) This area is beautiful and right in the middle of history, but please note that it is located on a hill. Walking here requires some effort.
Wedding Venue: The wedding will take place at the Armada Hotel.
While the hotel is beautiful, there is a very steep uphill walk between the Armada Hotel and the Old Town center. For this reason, we recommend staying in Sirkeci or Sultanahmet and travelling to the wedding venue, rather than staying at the Armada for your entire trip.
While the hotel is beautiful, there is a very steep uphill walk between the Armada Hotel and the Old Town center. For this reason, we recommend staying in Sirkeci or Sultanahmet and travelling to the wedding venue, rather than staying at the Armada for your entire trip.
Glamour Hotel Sirkeci
Sirkeci (15-minute walk to Old Town). It is in a flat area, so there is no uphill walking. It is very close to the Sirkeci tram station. Great rooftop with a view of the Bosphorus and Galata Tower, and a good breakfast.
Rast Hotel
Old Town (Sultanahmet). You wake up right in the middle of history. The Sultanahmet Tram Station is a 12-minute walk away. Best tourist experience. Good breakfast and a nice rooftop view.
Arden City Hotel-Special Category
Old Town (Sultan Ahmet)
Dosso Dossi Hotels Old City
Old Town (Sultan Ahmet)
Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel
Old Town, has a pool
Armada Istanbul Old City Hotel
The wedding celebration will be held here, they are only available after June 5.
Radisson Hotel Istanbul Sultanahmet
Although these are close to the wedding party, the area has no public transportation. To get to the Old Town or the tram station, you must walk up very steep hills.
Kalyon Hotel
Although these are close to the wedding party, the area has no public transportation. To get to the Old Town or the tram station, you must walk up very steep hills.