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Does grabbing a simit (one of Istanbul’s famous local foods) and walking along the Bosphorus sound like your cup of tea…er, cup of Turkish coffee? Whether you’re planning a romantic and luxurious getaway to Istanbul or traveling solo to Istanbul, the city has something for everyone!
If you’d like some things that are more of hidden gems and off-the-beaten path — here are some of the top things to do in Istanbul (that aren’t the Hagia Sophia).
For a complete look into the city, peruse my Istanbul travel guide, and for a complete scope of the country, here’s my Turkey travel guide!
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If you’re looking for more of a resort experience, check out the Çırağan Palace Kempinski. There are plenty of restaurants and bars to explore, a beautiful infinity pool, and a serene spa and wellness center open to guests.
This 5-star hotel occupies a former 19th-century Ottoman palace and is absolutely stunning.
Not only is the Four Seasons Bosphorus actually located along the Bosphorus strait, it’s also located in a carefully restored 19th-century palace! You’ll get the luxury you’d expect from the Four Seasons hotels while also enjoying a stay in a unique piece of Istanbul’s history
A little over 2 miles from the Hagia Sophia, take a lovely morning or afternoon stroll to the historic mosque.
Another luxurious Four Seasons hotel in Istanbul, the Four Seasons Sultanahmet has many of the same perks and the high standard of hospitality of the Four Seasons Bosphorus – the main difference is the location!
The neighborhood of Sultanahmet is filled with a lot of Istanbul’s ancient history.
Sofitel Istanbul Taksim is an Accor hotel in the heart of Istanbul – if you haven’t experienced an Accor hotel yet, just know that you can expect French-inspired hospitality and culture with luxurious touches like Hermes toiletries when you stay here!
True to its name, this hotel is a series of historic mansions near the Hagia Sofia. It makes for the perfect backdrop to a luxurious vacation in Istanbul.
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Located across the street from the Blue Mosque, Hotel Ibrahim Pasha is a gorgeous boutique hotel that offers both standard rooms as well as larger deluxe rooms that have seating areas.
It’s just a 5-minute walk from the Sultanahmet tram stop, and a 9-minute walk from the Hagia Sophia Museum…plus, just a 4-minute walk from The Blue Mosque! Definitely an ideal location in Istanbul.
The interior of the Hotel Sultania is positively regal, with gold accents and luxurious linens in each of the guest rooms and suites. The hotel also has a spa where you can get massages, relax in a sauna, or experience the hotel’s own Turkish bath.
About a 15-minute from the Hagia Sophia, the Sultan Ahmen Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar, this is an ideal location in the middle of some of the main tourist attractions.
Swissotel The Bosphorus, Istanbul is a five-star luxury hotel right in the center of the city, right on the banks of the Bosphorus strait. The hotel also has an amazing spa where you can relax and treat yourself to a facial, massage, and more!
Swissotel offers polished and contemporary rooms and, as it sits atop a green hill, it offers stunning views of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus.
Rixos Pera Istanbul is located in the vibrant Beyoglu district, close to important historical sites like Taksim Square, the Galata Tower, and the iconic Istiklal Avenue. Enjoy a meal at the rooftop restaurant while enjoying views of historic Istanbul.
It’s definitely a hidden gem near Istiklal Street with great customer service, a gorgeous lobby, and walking location to Taksim and Galata Tower
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The rooms at Erten Konak are gorgeous — you won’t believe that they’re available for a budget price!
You get private bathrooms with each room as well as amenities like complimentary tea and coffee stations to help you get a jump start on your day.
For a comfortable and safe option that doesn’t break the bank, book a room at Hanedan Hotel! They offer single, double, triple, and family rooms, so if you’re traveling with a group you have plenty of options to accommodate you.
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Florence is a beautiful city in the Tuscan region of Italy that can be great for families, couples, and solo travelers. The romantic city has everything from world-known art to spectacular architecture. Foodies will love Florence for its amazing Italian dishes and Tuscan wines.
When you are figuring out where to stay in Florence, visitors will have a ton of options. This guide is meant to help you find the best hotel in Florence for any budget.
If this is your first time in Florence, be sure to check out my ultimate Florence Travel Guide and things to do in Florence (that aren’t the Duomo).
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NH Collection Porta Rossa is a sophisticated hotel in the Tornabuoni neighborhood of Florence. The rooms are modern and comfortable offering guests all the amenities they would expect from a 5-star hotel.
Guests can enjoy the buffet breakfast every day in the luxurious dining room. The hotel is located just steps from the Florence Cathedral and the Uffizi, and the Monalda Tower is actually a part of the hotel itself.
NH Collection Porta Rossa is perfect for couples and families.
Villa Cora https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/grand-villa-cora.en.html?aid=1853948&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2
Villa Cora is a 19th-century building just a few kilometers from the center of Florence. Guests can enjoy strolling through the hotel’s gardens or relaxing by the beautiful outdoor pool. The luxurious rooms are elegantly decorated and spacious.
Guests can enjoy treatments at the hotel’s sauna and Turkish bath. The restaurant on-site serves class Italian dishes and wines from the Tuscany region. Villa Cora is conveniently located next to a bus stop that will take guests directly into the center of Florence.
Villa Cora is the perfect stay for those wanting an escape to the countryside of Italy while also enjoying the historic city of Florence.
If you are looking for the ultimate luxurious experience in Florence, then Four Seasons Firenze is precisely where you want to escape. The hotel is located in both the 15th-century Palazzo della Gherardesca and the renovated 16th-century La Villa convent.
This hotel has a 2-floor spa and a Michelin-star restaurant onsite. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s outdoor pool while relaxing and admiring the botanical gardens of Giardino della Gherardesca.
The rooms at Four Seasons Firenze are spacious with Renaissance décor.
The hotel offers guests three dining experiences, the main restaurant II Palagio, Al Fesco pizzeria, and Magnolia Asian Bar & Restaurant. The hotel is perfect for those that want a luxurious escape and is still close enough to the city that they can get to the Florence Cathedral in just a 15-minute walk.
Four Seasons Firenze is perfect for honeymooners.
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Hotel David is a 19th-century gem of a hotel that is just a 5-minute bus ride or a 15-minute walk to Florence’s historic center. The guestrooms are comfortable with a mix of contemporary and antique furniture.
The hotel offers a happy hour with free drinks and snacks each night in the lobby or garden. Hotel David is the perfect hotel for those wanting an affordable yet luxurious place to stay in Florence.
Hotel Spadai https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/hotelspadai.en.html?aid=1853948&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2
The historic building of Hotel Spadai is just a two-minute walk to some of Florence’s main attractions like the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral and is next to the Palazzo Medici Riccardi.
The guestrooms are modern with plush beds and a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy breakfast each morning before going out to explore the city.
Hotel Spadai is the perfect hotel for those wanting more of a modern setting in the historic town.
Hotel Milu is one of the best hotels in Florence that is set in a 14th-century building and in the heart of the historic center.
The rooftop terrace of the hotel offers amazing views of the city. Guests can enjoy breakfast each morning before exploring the neighborhood. The hotel staff will be more than happy to book guests with the affiliated spa just steps away.
Hotel Milu is perfect for those traveling alone or as a family.
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Ostello del Bigallo
Ostello del Bigallo is in the heart of the historic district of Florence. The hotel is just off of the main shopping street of Via Dei Calzaioli and has many shops, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance.
Each morning guests can enjoy a typical Italian breakfast of fruits, meats, cheese, and pastries. The guestrooms are simple yet comfortable and all have their own private bathroom.
Ostello del Bigallo is perfect for those wanting to stay on a budget while staying in the heart of the city.
Hotel Santa Croce offers guests a unique stay in a building that is built from ancient stones dating back to the 600s. This hotel is on the remains of a Roman amphitheater and just steps from many of Florence’s best attractions.
The hotel is close to restaurants, cafes, and shops, which makes it perfect for getting around without a car. The rooms in Hotel Santa Croce are cozy and comfortable.
Hotel Santa Croce is perfect for solo travelers and couples wanting to be surrounded by history.
Hotel Silla is a beautiful hotel situated in a 15th-century palace. The hotel is away from the crowds, but still within walking distance of Florence’s great attractions.
On the hotel’s terrace, guests can enjoy breakfast each morning and then a drink each afternoon. Each room is contemporarily decorated and offers great amenities.
Hotel Silla is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers.
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Do you have a favorite hotel in Florence? I’d love to hear all about it!
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