12 Gay-friendly and Gay Hotels in Istanbul
In Istanbul, you would be hard-pressed to find an upscale hotel which had any issues with gay guests, but discretion is advised still in this changing and increasingly conservative society.
Some Istanbul hotels are more popular with queer travellers due to their location near the Taksim gay bars or for their inclusive environment and welcoming vibes, which are features here. These gay hotels and gay-friendly hotels in Istanbul are frequented by members of the LGBT community and have solid reputations.
When looking at other hotels, we don’t recommend staying at very cheap hotels as local police typically raid these looking for prostitution. And if the police find you having sex, you will be arrested so it is just easier to avoid these budget / questionable properties altogether. Explore at your own pace, but we have added a helpful Istanbul hotels map in the end in case you need more help!
All Turkish hotels (gay hotels or not doesn’t really matter) must record every visitor in a police-controlled system, so you cannot invite a date to your room in these hotels – but in 4 stars or higher you are generally allowed as you are paying a premium – just let your reception know beforehand.
Each hotel and area offer something particular, so be sure to choose the right style and location to meet your needs. Prices are cheap compared to North American and European hotels (thought quickly rising), and standards are generally high – so it’s a great place to splurge! Of course, there are also a hundred’s more hotels and hostels in Istanbul if none of these suit your desired budget, facilities or area!
Taksim Gay-Friendly Hotels
The Marmara Taksim ☆☆☆☆☆
It does not get much better than this, this luxurious hotel right on Taksim Square is walking distance to all the gay bars, clubs and Taksim gay hamam, but dragging yourself away from the marbled en-suite, panoramic views or outdoor pool is going to be difficult. Luckily the Marmara hotel gym is one of the best gyms and spas in Istanbul, and a few hook-ups have been known to go down here. With a jacuzzi, lavish rooms, hip bar and world-class service there is no better luxury hotel in the Taksim Gay area.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED BOOK NOW!
Park Hyatt ☆☆☆☆☆
An international luxury chain with a stunning pool, spacious rooms and plenty of dining options. Just off Taksim Square, the location is perfect for getting around Istanbul by day and then experiencing Taksim gay nightlife – if you’re not too exhausted from the sauna, bar, gym, spa and enviable sun terrace.
Suite Dreams Istanbul ☆☆☆
Terrific value and centrally located, this gay-friendly apartment in Taksim offers budget but beautiful apartment rooms, breakfast, a 24/7 reception, and liberal, friendly owners. Beautiful balcony views and private entry with own key, so there are no prying eyes as you come and go.
Kunterbunt Apartment ☆☆☆
Gay & Lesbian-friendly designer apartments of varying prices run by an extremely welcoming owner-operator. Tastefully decorated, you will enjoy the premium location on a few minutes walk to most of the Taksim gay bars.
Istanbul Gay-Friendly Hotels
DoubleTree By Hilton Istanbul – Moda Hotel ☆☆☆☆☆
Pristine, modern, clean with a rooftop pool overlooking the Bosphorus. DoubleTree By Hilton offers sophisticated glam and is perfect if you’re looking to relax and not explore much.
Witt Istanbul Hotel ☆☆☆☆☆
Tucked into a residential street close to eclectic antique shops, cafes, and designer boutiques this award-winning designer hotel offers a chic bohemian feel and the chance to live out your life as a trendy Istanbul native. Retro furnishing complements the monochromatic colours in this architectural delight that genuinely understands the principles of modern luxury.
Vault Karakoy The House Hotel ☆☆☆☆
Centrally located, modern design and stunning views of that sexy Bosphorus right from your bathtub – if you select the right room. What more could you want? Well, there are plenty of outdoor areas to relax nearby if you can bring yourself to leave the elegant rooms.
Bentley By Molton Hotels ☆☆☆
Located in the hip Nisantasi area perfect for shopping and sightseeing, the Bentley is a mix of classicism and culture, offering a gay-friendly environment in a clean and contemporary space.
Hypnos Design Hotel ☆☆☆
Surprisingly affordable for a winder of the World Boutique Hotel Award, the famous design hotel in historic Istanbul offers trendy decor, delicious food, welcoming staff and a more than a bit of fun.
Galata’s Hotel ☆☆☆
A chic hotel strategically located in the trendy Galata neighbourhood, equal distance from the historic centre of Istanbul and the Taksim gay hamam and bars. Imagine industrial meets French glamour decor in these spacious rooms with panoramic views, great staff and excellent prices.
Cheers Hostel ☆☆
Often called the best hostel in Turkey, Cheers Hostel offers an inclusive environment and sublime right in the very heart of the Old City of Istanbul, in Sultanahmet. If you’re a solo traveler who wants to meet other international people to chat, explore or party and you don’t mind sharing a dorm, this is your best option.
