The Ultimate Gay Travel Guide
The Gay Passport is your complete Gay Travel Guide. Looking to Drink, Play or Sleep we have reviews to help. Award-winning & Updated 2025.
Sleep.
Istanbul offers a wide range of accommodation options and, with prices usually cheaper than in Europe or Asia, it is a fantastic opportunity to splurge on a 4 or 5-star hotel. These trendy, upscale hotels will also tend to be more gay-friendly, especially the large international chains. While there are a few cool hostels for those on a budget and who enjoy a more social and relaxed stay, many budget accommodations in the city have less-than-ideal cleanliness and upkeep standards, so always pay attention to guest reviews.
Most Istanbul hotels are gay-friendly and will present no issues for gay travellers. This is especially true for more upscale international chains and designer boutique hotels. It’s worth noting that hotels in Istanbul are legally obligated to police who enters and exits their rooms, which means overnight guests are not usually allowed. Four and five-star hotels will usually turn a blind eye to this, but it’s sometimes good to give them a heads-up.
The area around Taksim square is the most popular for gay travelers, as you’ll be close to all the gay nightlife action.
Filter your stay
Why we love it
♥ Two swimming pools (outdoor and indoor)
♥ Seafront near shopping mall and cinema
♥ Luxury with Michelin-starred chef Akira Back
♥ 30 minutes taxi to Taksim Square (Istanbul gayborhood)
Ready to elevate your Istanbul experience? The JW Marriott Istanbul Marmara Sea is your gateway to luxury, relaxation, and endless city adventures. Whether seeking to create lasting memories, enjoy a peaceful escape, or immerse in creative adventures, the JW Marriott Istanbul Marmara Sea is a perfect choice.
With its stunning sea views and chic, modern design, this 5-star hotel is a true urban oasis. You can indulge in world-class dining options, including the Michelin-recommended Akira Back Restaurant serving modern Japanese cuisine. Unwind in spacious rooms and suites, or indulge in the ultimate luxury of a private residence. Book an Executive Suite with a balcony to experience the ultimate in luxury and relaxation.
Want to explore the city? Hagia Sophia Mosque and the Grand Bazaar (one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world) are nearby. Taksim Square, where gay saunas (hamam) and Tekyön Club, is about a 30-minute taxi.
Why we love it
♥ Fabulous Bosphorus views
♥ Stunning balcony suites available
♥ World-class Asian spa with Turskish hammam
♥ Award-winning Cantonese cuisine
The Shangri-La Bosphorus is a luxurious hotel located on the European side of the city, set in a 1930s building overlooking the iconic Bosphorus Strait. In usual Shangri-La style, the hotel features elegant rooms and suites with stunning views, modern amenities, and opulent Ottoman design elements – it’s worth splurging on one of the Bosphorus rooms for the best waterfront views, especially the Barbaros and Shangri-La suites, which come with sweeping terraces. The property also boasts a beautiful spa and hammam, fitness center, indoor pool, and several dining options, including the Shang Palace restaurant, which serves authentic Cantonese cuisine.
The hotel is a 15-minute drive from Taksim Square and the surrounding gay nightlife. The stunning Dolmabahçe Palace, former seat of the Ottoman Empire and a lesser-known Istanbul gem, is under a 10-minute walk away.
Why we love it
♥ Soothing neutral design with a luxe feel
♥ Romantic penthouse ideal for couples’ getaway
♥ Cool rooftop bar with city views
♥ Hip location near Serdar-ı Ekrem boutique shopping street
The Bank Hotel Istanbul, part of Mariott’s series of design hotels, offers a range of stylish rooms in a convenient location inthe historic Karakoy district. It’s housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century bank building and features stylish neutral interior design, perfect for relaxing after a day of Bazaar sensory overload. The Penthouse is an especially luxurious option, with white marble details, a balcony, and a romantic standalone bathtub surrounded by windows overlooking the city. The rooftop terrace bar offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and is a great place to kick off the night with a cocktail, and the fitness and wellness facilities are elegant and well-appointed. It’s location near the iconic Galata Tower places it near some of the best boutique shopping in town, with the Taksim gayborhood just one Metro stop away.
Why we love it
♥ Spacious Duplex Suites for larger groups available
♥ Bosphorus-facing terrace rooms available
♥ Contemporary luxury feel
♥ Walking distance from most Istanbul gay nightlife
This modern and stylish hotel located is in the heart of Istanbul’s bustling Taksim district. The Elysium Taksim features contemporary design, with a bright and airy feel and luxury Ottoman details throughout. All the rooms are spacious and comfortable, with the larger Duplex Suites and the stunning Penthouse being superb options for groups of 5-6. These come with living spaces, balconies, and a kitchenette, so you can really make yourself at home.
There is a fitness center, a spa, and several dining options. The location is ideal for both gay nightlife and exploring the wider city: while most of the city’s gay bars and clubs are within a 15-minute walk, easy access to Taksim Metro station means the rest of Istanbul is always at your fingertips.
Why we love it
♥ Fantastic location for Sultanhamet sightseeing
♥ Beautiful rooms with decadent, palatial style
♥ Lovely garden bar and dining
♥ Gorgeous and unique indoor pool and spa
Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton is a stunning hotel located in the heart of the city’s historic Sultanahmet district. The property is housed across several beautifully restored 19th-century mansions and features spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities and a palatial Ottoman style. The hotel also boasts two restaurants, a garden bar, a modern gym, and a gorgeous pool and spa area inspired by the nearby Roman Cisterns – think grand brick arches and relaxing mood lighting. The location is perfect for sightseeing: the Hagia Sofia and Blue Mosque are a 5-minute walk away, and while the wonders of the Grand Bazaar can be reached in 15 minutes on foot.
Why we love it
♥ Travel like an A-lister
♥ Gorgeous interior design with authentic Turkish elements
♥ Excellent fitness and wellness facilities
♥ Easy walk or metro travel to Taksim Square gayborhood
The Soho House Istanbul is a seriously stylish hotel, part of an international chain of exclusive Member’s Clubs and hotels that is popular with A-listers and celebrities. Booking a stay here is a fantastic way to get a glimpse into the glamorous world of these world-famous clubs, without having to take out a membership.
The hotel is housed in a historic 19th-century building and features elegant design, luxurious amenities, and impeccable service. The rooms and suites are individually decorated with eclectic furnishings, vintage Turkish textiles, and original artwork. The hotel also boasts several dining options, including the gorgeous rooftop restaurant, which offers stunning views of the city. There is an amazing gym, complete with boxing ring and state-of-the-art machines, and a Cowshed Spa and traditional Turkish hammam.
Soho House is located in Beyoglu, a 20-minute walk or quick 5-minute Metro hop to the Taksim Square gayborhood.
The Gay Passport is your complete Gay Travel Guide. Looking to Drink, Play or Sleep we have reviews to help. Award-winning & Updated 2025.