cheap apartments in Istanbul

16 Cheap Apartments & Airbnbs in Istanbul From $50 a Night

Last updated on March 9th, 2024

Looking for cheap apartments or airbnbs in Istanbul, Turkey? I hear you.

Before finding our comfy flat in Kadikoy and settling there for months, we moved between so many apartments. Well, before that, we visited the city on a few occasions and stayed in different flats. So I know it can be a bit confusing to understand where to stay in Istanbul and how to find a cheap apartment, especially if you are visiting this city for the first time.

That’s why I thought to write this post with a list of beautiful (hand-picked) apartments in nice neighborhoods (excellent for a short stay in Istanbul), with great reviews, and stylish designs.

Let me walk you through different Istanbul neighborhoods and show a few nice picks that cost between $50-$100 a night. Note, this price is considered cheap these days for an apartment in a central location in Istanbul. There are also cheaper options where rooms are more basic or in not very safe Istanbul areas. But I thought to give examples of apartments and airbnbs where price and quality meet.

And then if you’d like to stay in an unusual type of accommodation, take a look at these unique hotels that are old mansions or Ottoman palaces. Some also offer rooms for a tighter budget.


Please note: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking, I may earn a commission at no extra cost for you.

How to Save Money & Find Cheap Apartments in Istanbul

View from the hotel in Karakoy

Before I get to my list of cheap Istanbul holiday rentals, here are a few of my tips on how to save money on accommodation:

1) If you are planning to visit Istanbul for the tulip festival, late spring, anytime in the summer or early fall), book Airbnb at least 2-3 months before the trip. 

2) Feel free to send a message and ask for a discount. Turkey lives by the laws of the East which means that a lot of people are used to bargaining. It is very normal to contact a landlord and ask for a discount. As a result of good bargaining, the price can easily be reduced by 10-15%. Although this is more relevant for long-term rentals.

3) Istanbul is a very busy and noisy city. Before booking accommodation, read reviews carefully and see what others are saying about the noise levels. If you have to live in an apartment with closed windows, ask the owners if there is an air conditioner.

4) If visiting for a few days only, rent accommodation near that part of Istanbul that you want to explore. Staying somewhere else will mean that you need to spend a lot of time on the road, getting places. In case you are coming to spend at least a week in Istanbul (or longer), rent an Airbnb or an apartment near the metro, ferry station, or tram stop.

5) On the outskirts, the cost of housing is 20% lower than in the historical center of the city. But staying that far doesn’t make sense if this is your first visit. Outskirts and distant neighborhoods work great for those who have already been to Istanbul and want a more authentic experience. 

6) If you plan to cook, check the description and photos of a listing. Some Airbnbs only have a kitchenette which is not enough to prepare full meals. Also, choose an apartment with a supermarket and inexpensive cafes next to it.

7) When searching for cheap apartments for rent in Istanbul, keep in mind that the best areas where you can secure a flat with the lowest price are Beyoglu (particularly the area near the Istiklal Street, around Taksim Square, and part of Küçükpiyale neighborhood where for example this lovely apartment is).

There are also a lot of cheap apartments in Besiktas and Sisle on the European side (including posh Nisantasi) and the eastern part of the Kadikoy neighborhood on the Asian side.

Beautiful Cheap Istanbul Flats in Taksim Area

Cute 1-Bedroom Flat in the Hip Neighborhood Cihangir

cozy apartment in Istanbul
Cozy and spacious place. Photo credit: VRBO
  • LocationCihangir neighborhood, very close to Taksim 
  • Sleeps – 6 guests
  • Price – from $68/night 

I would love to start my list of cheap apartments in Istanbul with this basic yet stylish apartment located between the Cihangir and Cukurcuma neighborhoods in the Taksim area.

Cihangir is considered one of the safest and most prestigious neighborhoods of Istanbul where a lot of artists, celebrities, and famous people live. Cukurcuma is no less safe and dynamic place to be. So this flat is an excellent option for travelers who are on a very low budget since they’ll be staying in the most prestigious neighborhood while spending not much more than what they’d pay for a hostel.

I was surprised to find a flat in this part of the city for such a price. No wonder it is always booked with a lot of time in advance.

This home-style accommodation is 24 hours alive and vibrant. The lively Istiklal Street and Taksim Metro Station are just a short walk away. A lot of restaurants, markets, and shops are also nearby. The house has central heating, so it is convenient to stay here not only in summer but during the winter travel in Istanbul too.

Inside the apartment, there is a large bed, a small living room, a kitchen, and a bathroom. The apartment is in a restored 19th-century mansion. The size of the housing is very large but not tiny either. There are not whole a lot of views but the price is low and the place is neat and very nice. Suitable for short-term and long-term rent. The best part about this place is the location with easy access to most parts of the city. The disadvantage is the lack of a washer in the apartment so for the long-term stays you will need to rely on local laundromats.

The apartment lists up to 6 guests but it’s realistically comfortable for 4 people and perfect for two.

View on VRBO

Budget Historical Flat Next to Istiklal Street

nice apartment with a view in Istanbul
Photo credit: VRBO
  • Location – Beyoglu, the area near Istiklal Street and closer to Taksim Square 
  • Sleeps – 4 people
  • Price – from $68/night 

This is one of a few cheap apartments in Istanbul that has an unbeatable location, beautiful design, and surprisingly low price. Perhaps it will increase in the future since the flat seems to be relatively new but for now, even in the high season in July and August, the price is still the same. This home is a true gem for people on mid-budget, especially those who have one night in Istanbul or a few days but want to see as much as possible.

This apartment is very close to the Taksim Square subway and historical tram, so you can be really anywhere within a short period of time. Also what I think is great is the proximity to grocery stores, restaurants, and cafes. Istiklal Street with boutique shops is less than 5 minute’s walk.

On our first trip to Istanbul, before we moved and settled in the city, we stayed in the neighborhood where this apartment is situated. Our place was incredibly loud due to the noise coming from all the bars. But this flat is in a much quieter spot, although it’s near the main busy road.

The flat is not large but offers a separate bedroom which is always nice. The bathroom and kitchen are small but modern and brand new. It’s really a great deal and a wonderful cheap holiday apartment in Istanbul. Book it in advance!

View on VRBO

Airbnb Istanbul Galata With Best Views

Galata airbnb with a view
Having Turkish breakfast on the balcony with the Galata Tower in the distance. Photo credit: Airbnb
  • Location – Beyoglu district, near the Istiklal Street & Cihangir neighborhood 
  • Sleeps – 3 guests
  • Price – from $55/night 

This bright two-room Airbnb rental has a very good location. It’s very close to a few famous places such as Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, Karakoy neighborhood, and Galata Tower. From here, it is a stone’s throw to the Galata Tower and the pedestrian Istiklal Street. Nearby there is a supermarket, antique shops, hammam, restaurants, and cafes. An excellent choice for couples, families with little children, and a small group of friends!

If you come here by car, there will be a parking spot available (although the streets are very narrow). The apartment has an exit to a common terrace with an incredible view of the Golden Horn and ancient mosques. This is a perfect flat to relax, cook in the kitchen, and enjoy Istanbul at sunset! You will be waking up with the view of Galata and cooking in the kitchen having even better views. So this apartment is all about the views.

This Airbnb is designed for three people. In the low season, the price starts at $34, but in the high season (meaning in July and August) it goes up to $115 and it’s almost always booked. Make sure to reserve it in advance.

View on Airbnb

Bohemian Flat in Cihangir Near Istiklal 

apartment for rent in Cihangir
Bohemian flat in Cihangir. Photo credit: Airbnb
  • Location – Cihangir/Beyoglu, that part which is close to Istiklal Street and Taksim Square
  • Sleeps – 2 people
  • Price – from $52/night 

This beautiful large rental in a hip neighborhood of Cihangir offers a bit of luxury on a budget. Ideal for couples on a romantic getaway or solo travelers, it has a perfect location. All famous bars, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance and Taksim metro or historical tram is only a few minutes walk away.

Clean lines, high ceilings that keep the space cool in summer, hardwood floors, and an abundance of natural light give this two-bedroom boutique apartment a light, calming feel. The living area, bedroom, and kitchen are drenched in character and have elegant furniture. Additionally, to modern furniture and fun art pieces, there are Ottoman-style carpets on the floor that add a nice touch. A small balcony offers a view of the narrow Cihangir Street. 

The price of the apartment in the low season is $43 per night, and in the high season doesn’t exceed $60. It’s almost always booked. Nothing can beat the central location and excellent reviews from other guests. See for yourself.

View on Airbnb

Unbeatable Location – Central Apartment in Cihangir Near Taksim 

spacious apartment in Istanbul central area
Photo Credit: Booking.com
  • Location – between Cihangir & Taksim in Beyoglu district
  • Sleeps – 4 guests
  • Price – from $58/night

Another flat in the Istanbul Taksim area is actually located very close to a previous apartment but costs less. So I wanted to include it on this list as well. It is a fantastic option for couples, families with children, or single travelers on a budget who look to stay next to Taksim but want to be close to public transportation to be able to explore other areas of Istanbul too.

It’s one of the most central apartments that comes at a good price. Plus, this is one of the best areas to be in to experience Istanbul culture. The indoor space is very generous and includes a full kitchen and bathroom, washer, dining space, living room, and separate bedroom decorated in an older style.

Note that the flat is located on the 1st floor so no climbing stairs. 

View on Booking.com

Beautiful Penthouse With Sea View in Taksim Area

best airbnb in Istanbul Taksim area
Penthouse with sea view in Taksim. Photo credit: Airbnb
  • Location – Taksim/Beyoglu, within walking distance from Istiklal street 
  • Sleeps – 4 guests
  • Price – from $90/night 

While it is one of the more expensive Istanbul flats for rent on this list, I still wanted to include it in my post since it comes at a very good price for its location. Being centrally located in the Beyoglu district, it provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the historical part of the city on foot. From here you can walk to Karakoy, Galata, Taksim Square, Cihangir, and even Dolmabahce Palace. Also, it takes only 5 minutes to walk to the metro stations Taksim and Sishane.

When it comes to the apartment, is a two-level penthouse with a kitchenette, bathroom, and private terrace, ideal for a family trip. The kitchen has everything you need to prepare food – a refrigerator, stove, microwave, and a full set of dishes. There is also a washing machine inside the flat.

The outside terrace of this apartment probably deserves the most praise. There, you’ll have a table, chairs, a cozy rocking sofa, and views, views, views. Sit back and admire the sea and old city quarters!

Accommodation is designed for four people. However, if there are four of you and you guys have a lot of luggage, it will be small. Plus, since it’s located on the sixth floor, it may be a challenge climbing up the stairs. In my opinion and based on reviews of many guests, this lovely Airbnb in Istanbul is ideal for couples on a romantic getaway.

View on Airbnb

Cheap But Stylish Apartments in Istanbul Galata Area

Cozy Airbnb in Istanbul Galata Prime Location

cozy rental flat in Galata
Cozy Airbnb in Istanbul Galata. Photo credit: Airbnb
  • Location – a few steps away from Galata Tower
  • Sleeps – 4 guests
  • Price – from $65/night 

Situated just a few steps away from Galata Tower and Galata Square this bright and modern studio enjoys a prime location. First of all, you are in the heart of the Galata Tower neighborhood and only a few minutes away from Karakoy and the ferry terminal from where you can visit the Asian side of Istanbul.

Nearby there are antique shops, museums, mini markets, restaurants, and cafes for any taste and budget which is very convenient for people who don’t want to cook and plan to spend their time only sightseeing.

The flat, which comes with a double bed and pullout sofa, has all modern amenities including air conditioning, central heating, washing machine, drying machine, and full kitchenware.

The only disadvantage here is the absence of an elevator. It is located on the 3rd floor, so you have to be in good shape to climb narrow stairs with luggage.

This spacious Airbnb is an excellent choice for couples, families with kids, or a small group of friends. It is a convenient option if you want to rent an Airbnb in Istanbul for a few days, a maximum of a week. And it may not work for longer stays since the area is very touristy and more expensive.

The price per night in January and February is $45 per night. In summer, it costs $70-$75 per night. But taking into consideration that it’s designed for four people, the price is pretty average among the apartments of this quality in the Galata area. 

View on Airbnb

Deluxe Apartment in Istanbul Karakoy Neighborhood

luxurious flat in Istanbul
Photo credit: VRBO
  • Location – in the heart of the Kabatas neighborhood
  • Sleeps – 4 guests
  • Price – from $70/night 

Ideally positioned in Kabatas neighborhood right between Taksim Square and Galata Tower with a walking distance of 16 minutes in either direction. Ferry terminal, and tram, are easily accessible. This one-bedroom apartment combines modern design and thoughtful touches.

An apartment is ideal for a couple but can comfortably sleep two more people on a couch in the living room. A comfy bed and sofa, full kitchen with fridge, and a new bathroom make the space extremely liveable for a longer stay in Istanbul. There’s air conditioning and heating which makes this cheap accommodation option a good choice for summer and winter stays. The apartment also has parking which is a rare amenity for this location.

This flat is simple but modern, clean and nice. It is a very good choice for families and couples who plan to explore different neighborhoods of Istanbul, including the Asian side with distant corners of Uskudar and Fatih.  

View on VRBO

Cheap Istanbul Airbnb Apartments in Sultanahmet

Bright & Modern Studio in Old Part of Sultanahmet 

modern studio for rent in Sultanahmet
Cheap modern studio in Istanbul Sultanahmet neighborhood. Photo credit: Airbnb
  • Location – in the heart of the old neighborhood of Sultanahmet
  • Sleeps – 2 guests
  • Price – from $85/night 

Here is a nice and cheap airbnb in Istanbul near the Blue Mosque in Sultanahmet neighborhood. Also 5 minutes away from the Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia. We stayed here once and spent only one night but it completely exceeded all our expectations!

This Airbnb is comfortable but at the same time very minimalistic. Yet you’ll have all the necessary utilities for a nice stay and a great location allowing you to easily access some main attractions on a walk. There is also a full-size (although small) kitchen where you can cook.

Guests love the pleasant brown-and-white interiors, an elegant sofa, and a neat bathroom. The apartment has an air conditioning and heating system, so staying here is possible at any time of the year!

Accommodation is designed for two. In the low season it costs $50 but in the high season goes up to $95 per night. It is a good pick for people who are looking to take it slowly and relax and spend time in the historic city center.

View on Airbnb

One Bedroom Flat With Jacuzzi 

cheap airbnb in Istanbul Sultanahmet
One-bedroom flat for rent in Istanbul with jacuzzi in Sultanahmet neighborhood. Photo credit: Airbnb
  • Location – 10 minutes walk from Sultanahmet
  • Sleeps – 3 guests
  • Price – from $70/night 

This lovely spacious Istanbul Airbnb is located in the old quarter of the Fatih district less than 10 minute’s walk from the old historic neighborhood Sultanahmet. The location is a bit more local, but it literally takes a few minutes on foot to immerse into culture and history.   

This flat has a separate bedroom and a living room, a kitchen, and a small jacuzzi in the bathroom. The living room has upholstered furniture and models of vintage cars on the shelves. The kitchen is minimally equipped and has a stove, refrigerator, kettle, and some utensils. Yet, it is enough for making breakfast or a quick meal.

Downstairs there is a Turkish bath and fitness center. As per the host, guests are entitled to a 10% discount at the nearby restaurant and free hot drinks.

Despite the small area, you still get enough space and feel comfortable. It is a very nice Istanbul Airbnb for people who visit the city on vacation or a city getaway. At the same time though, it is a convenient option for those who want to rent an apartment in Istanbul for a week, two, or longer. The host is very flexible.

In January and February prices start at $65 and in high season go up to $105. As with any other listing in this article, if you don’t want to miss it, book it in advance. 

View on Airbnb

Flats in Istanbul’s Old Kadikoy Neighborhood

The Entire Loft With a Huge Rooftop in Kadikoy Moda 

cheap apartment in Kadikoy
Photo credit: Booking.com
  • Location – in the very center of the historical Moda neighborhood in Kadikoy district
  • Sleeps3 people
  • Price – from $110/night 

I couldn’t miss my favorite (and favorite for many other people) Moda neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul. Moda is one of the most beautiful, quirky, and vibrant Istanbul areas. If I had to recommend only one single place where to stay in Istanbul, I’d pick Moda. I may be biased though since we spent 8 months there and fell in love with our new home from the first days. 

But seriously, Moda is special for many reasons. And because it is a special and unique place in Istanbul, housing costs are pretty high. They will be even higher than in the Sultanahmet or Galata areas. But unfortunately, the quality of many rental apartments for that high price is well below average. Many times, hosts just rent out apartments knowing they will be in demand but don’t invest in quality.

Still, there are a few beautiful flats that are worth your money.

For example, one of them is this clean, quiet, and spacious flat. The location here is just perfect with bars, restaurants, and stores nearby. A few minutes walk brings you to the historical tram, park, and seaside where you can go for a jog or walk. 

The apartment is a two-bedroom well equipped. It is fully furnished and comes with a washing machine, dishwasher, and even free parking.

Moda is an expansive area, so this flat has one of the highest price tags on this list, but for what it is worth, it is a really good deal to experience Moda life at its fullest.

View on Booking.com

Your Home in the Center of Moda

airbnb Istanbul Kadikoy
Cheap Airbnb in the central part of Moda, Kadikoy. Photo credit: Airbnb
  • Location – in the heart of Moda, Kadikoy 
  • Sleeps – 4 people
  • Price – from $51/night 

Stylish and homey is how I would describe this cozy flat in the old center of Kadikoy. Its location is just perfect. We lived in that area and I can tell you that this home is located on a quiet street but a few steps away from all the action. You leave the house and find yourself in the middle of a busy bustling quarter.

The balance of retro and contemporary styles in this Airbnb is just right. An old vintage wardrobe in one of the bedrooms and antique decor create a vintage feel. What I personally like is that there is a desk for a laptop where it’s comfortable to work. Especially if you are staying long-term, it comes in handy. 

The apartment is fitted with an open kitchen that connects to a dining area with a table, a compact bathroom, and a separate bedroom. Four people can stay there in total and feel comfortable. There is no balcony, but there is an outside closed terrace with a table where guests can dine or relax during warmer months.

View on Airbnb

Airbnb Istanbul Kadikoy Flat For a Long-Term Stay With a Lovely Bosphorus View

best Istanbul airbnbs
Flat for long-term rent in Kadikoy. Photo credit: Airbnb
  • Location – Bahariye neighborhood, Kadikoy district 
  • Sleeps – 4 people
  • Price – from $36/night 

Bahariye neighborhood together with Moda is the most popular neighborhood in Kadikoy for long-term visits to Istanbul. And this flat is one of the best in that area if you are looking to rent an apartment for a month or possibly more. It is spotlessly clean, luxuriously furnished, cozy, and has a fantastic view from the strait. 

This compact, bright apartment is perfect for a couple’s getaway or trip with friends. The house has everything you need not only for a short but also long-term stay.

The apartment has a separate double bedroom with a big wardrobe, a bathroom with a rain shower, comfortable living space with a couch, TV, and table. The kitchen has all the utensils, a microwave, and everything you need to prepare meals at home. Look outside the window to admire the old houses and tall minarets of Istanbul.

The location of the flat is not touristy at all. Thus you get an authentic experience of Istanbul, living among locals but being close to all the historic sites. Also, it is a perfect little Airbnb if you’re looking for a cozy place to come home to every night after a long day of exploration. 

View on Airbnb

Beautiful Apartments in Other Neighborhoods of Istanbul

Istanbul airbnb on a budget
Photo credit: Booking.com

Authentic 120 y/o Studio Flat with Bathtub in Balat

  • Location – historical neighborhood Balat  
  • Sleeps – 2 people
  • Price – from $93/night

Not far from the center of Istanbul, in the old quarter of Balat, you can rent a recently restored flat in a Historical Luxury House.

The Balat area was once home to the city’s Greek and Jewish communities that for many years lived in poverty. But it changed and today, it’s an impressive vibrant neighborhood where you get a totally different picture of Istanbul. 

This apartment combines modern and old design keeping up to 4 guests in great comfort. Its kitchen is not very large but has everything you need for cooking.

The flat is cozy and close to the street with cafes, restaurants, and small shops. Getting to the main historic sites is pretty easy. Buses run in different directions and a 30-minute walk brings you to the Galata Bridge from where you can go anywhere else.

This area is ideal for returning visitors to the city or those who want a unique experience in one of the oldest and most unique neighborhoods of Istanbul. 

View on Booking.com

Spectacular Bosphorus View Penthouse in Beyoglu 

cheap airbnb in Taksim
Photo credit: Booking.com
  • Location – in Beyoglu closer to Kabatas and Sealine
  • Sleeps – 3 people
  • Price – from $90/night 

Simple and basic but clean and charming, this apartment is very affordable in the Istanbul Beyoglu district. The reason I wanted to include it on my list is its location and nice, cozy terrace. 

If you look at the map, you’ll notice that first of all, the apartment is situated next to the tram line, buses, and Kabatas ferry terminal. With the tram or a bus, guests can easily reach Dolmabahce Palace, go to Besiktas neighborhood, Arnavutkoy, Bebek, Emirgan Park, or all the way to the Black Sea.

If you are visiting Istanbul for the tulip festival, this apartment is a great choice since getting from it to any famous tulip location doesn’t take much time. Concurrently, it’s very quick to go to Sultanahmet, Eminonu, or Istanbul’s Asian side. Besides that, going on foot to Taksim, Karakoy or Galata is also not a problem.

The apartment has a minimalistic design that includes stylish furniture and a full kitchen. The bathroom is very simple and small. But a private cute terrace with the view out towards the Bosphorus Strait makes it difficult to leave.

Note: minimum stay here is 3 nights.

View on Booking.com

Modern Studio With Balcony in a New Building

cheap airbnbs in Istanbul long term
Apartment to rent in Istanbul long-term. Photo credit: Airbnb
  • Location – Sisli district, Gülbağ neighborhood 
  • Sleeps – 2 people
  • Price – from $30/night 

I would like to finish my list with a holiday apartment for rent in Istanbul for long-term travelers or those who come to the city for business or shopping. With this listing, I was also hoping to show you a good location where to stay in Istanbul for a few months if you are on a tight budget.

Gülbağ neighborhood where this modern studio apartment is situated, together with the nearby Mecidiyeköy neighborhood is home to a lot of new and modern apartment complexes together with tall glass office buildings. Finding a new flat for rent there is easy and prices are lower compared to the historical neighborhoods mentioned above. 

This apartment is small but has everything one needs for a comfortable stay. If you are coming to Istanbul to spend time in Nisantasi, Bomonti, go shopping in one of the many malls nearby, or you’ve been to Istanbul before and want something new, this flat is a good place to stay (or other flats in the same area). And if you feel like going to a more vibrant part of the city, the subway is only a short walk away.

View on Airbnb


This is it for now in terms of Istanbul apartments, but below are extra tips and posts for travel to Istanbul.

Istanbul Essentials

Is this going to be your first time in Istanbul? Second? Third? No matter how many times you’ve been to this city, there is still something new to learn and explore. I have many posts and key resources about Istanbul that may help you organize a trip to Turkey’s largest city. Here are only some of them:

Do you need more inspiration and helpful tips for other destinations in Turkey? Then check my Turkey travel blog page with many posts and ideas!

And which of these cheap Istanbul apartments are you saving for your visit? Share in the comments, I’d love to know!

Best cheap airbnbs in Istanbul, Turkey
cheap flats and airbnbs in Istanbul
 
 

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One Comment

  1. Ah, Istanbul, I love this place! I like to stay around Sultanahmet, if I have first-timers coming with me. Otherwise, I look for a place in Kadikoy or around Bominti/Nisantasi.
    Great tips!

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