SULTANAHMET is the heart of Istanbul³Ò touristic area. Many of the major touristic attractions are located here and very close each other.
Also you can find everything necessary for tourists here--- Exchange office, travel agencies, hotels, souvenier shops, restraunts, bars, Tourist Office, Post office etc.

Staying a hotel in this area is the easiest way to feel the history of this impressive city.

THE OLD CITY used to be called Bizantium and Constantinople--- the capital of three empires. The Old City is the triangular peninsula surrounded by sea and the City Walls. As its name, there is a lot of history.

It´ll take you at least 3 days to get around and see the major touristic sights in Istanbul. Staying in the Old City makes you easier to get around.

THE NEW CITY, so called, has actually long history too. Yet still it³Ò a new city, which has not only a historical but also a modern face of Istanbul.
You can enjoy fine bars, nightclubs, restaurants (especially at Beyoglu area and by the Bosphorus stream) and shopping, all from low to high prices and for any taste.
Most of 4-5 star and modern hotels with business facilities are located in the New City..

For the people who prefer to stay near an airport, here is the options. You can find fine bars, restaurants, nightclubs and shopping center by marina and Yesilkoy-Floria area. You can go to the OLD CITY or SULTANAHMET using subway and tramway easily from this airport area.