Istanbul is divided by the Bosphorus Strait, which splits this fascinating metropolis into European and Asian sides. The scope for accommodation in this city is seemingly unlimited, with a number of unique districts to choose from. While Sultanahmet is the focal point with its upscale hotel options, Beyoglu offers great mid-range selections.

The Sultanahmet district is the city's main draw due to its architectural wonders such as the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and the Sultan Ahmet Mosque among others. Visitors wanting the maximum in convenience can check in to any one of the dozens of comfortable hotels found here amid abundant restaurants and shops, with Divan Yolu being the main thoroughfare.

Best Western offers more than one option in Sultanahmet but for the ultimate in luxury, the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul is a popular choice among couples and honeymooners. Nearby in Taksim Square are the city's consulates and consequently a handful of business hotels. Business travellers may also like to stay close to Nisantasi, the central shopping district, or Sisli, the financial district that spans from Levent to Maslak.

At night, Beyoglu's Istiklal Caddesi is a centre for nightlife while daylight hours see it attract people with its bustling cafés. It is also host to a number of upmarket boutiques, eateries and theatres. Accommodation in Beyoglu is mostly mid-range, making it a favourite spot among families.

The waterfront district of Eminonu is home to the Egyptian Spice Bazaar and is accessible by tram. From here you can connect to the Asian side of the city by ferry or to European cities by rail via Sirkeci Train Station. Around the rail station are a number of budget accommodation choices for those on a shoestring.

The bohemian Tunel has undergone a facelift and is growing in popularity as a place to stay while Karakoy is where cruise ship passengers disembark at the busy ferry terminal. Galata, while home to the Whirling Dervishes, doesn't have many hotel options. The waterfront Ortakoy district is a popular daytime hangout, with the entire European Bosphorus shore from Arnavutkoy to Sariyer offering restaurants and a few hotels.

There are a number of accommodation options along the Marmara coast and out towards the airport. Ataturk Airport is the primary gateway to the city and nearby you will find the Novotel Istanbul Hotel and the Radisson SAS Conference and Airport Hotel.

The Asian side of the city offers an altogether different atmosphere to the European side but the travel distance to the city's main attractions deters most visitors from lodging here. The largely residential Kadikoy offers a quiet selection of shops, small hotels and bars, while the coast road to Anadolu Hisari has a handful of tourist sites and lodgings.