The Bosphorus House

The Bosphorus House Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to The Bosphorus House in Üsküdar, you immediately get that feeling this isn’t your typical tourist hotel. It’s tucked away on a residential street that feels authentically Turkish — you know, the kind where locals actually live and work. The building itself has this understated charm that doesn’t scream for attention, which I honestly found refreshing after seeing so many flashy places around Istanbul. This four-star property manages to feel both welcoming and sophisticated without trying too hard.

The Neighborhood Advantage

Here’s what I love about staying in Üsküdar — you’re on the Asian side of Istanbul, which means you get to experience the city like locals do. The ferry ride across the Bosphorus becomes part of your daily routine, and trust me, that never gets old. You’re actually closer to some incredible mosques and markets that most tourists miss entirely. The area around the hotel has these great little tea houses and bakeries where you can grab proper Turkish breakfast for a fraction of what you’d pay in Sultanahmet. Plus, couples seem to really appreciate the romantic vibe here — I can see why they rate the location so highly.

The Room Experience

My room had this perfect balance of modern comfort and Turkish character. The beds are genuinely comfortable (which isn’t always a given in boutique places), and the bathrooms are well-designed with good water pressure. What really struck me was the attention to detail — proper blackout curtains, decent WiFi, and air conditioning that actually works during Istanbul’s humid summers. Some rooms have partial Bosphorus views, though honestly, even without the water view, the neighborhood scenes from the windows are pretty charming.

Getting Around

The ferry terminal is maybe a 10-minute walk, which connects you to everywhere you want to go — Eminönü, Karaköy, Beşiktaş. I actually preferred this to staying right in the tourist center because you avoid the crowds but still have easy access. There’s also decent bus connections if you’re not in the mood for the ferry, though I’d recommend the boat ride every time. The hotel staff knows the transportation options well and can point you toward the fastest routes depending on where you’re headed.

Why Guests Love It

What makes this place special is that it gives you a genuine Istanbul experience without sacrificing comfort. You’re staying where real Istanbul happens — morning calls to prayer, neighborhood cats wandering around, the smell of fresh bread from local bakeries. The staff treats you more like a guest in their home than just another tourist, and they’re genuinely helpful with recommendations that go beyond the obvious attractions. It’s the kind of place where you feel like you’ve discovered something special, especially if you’re looking to experience Istanbul beyond the typical tourist trail.

The Bosphorus House Accommodations

Reviews of The Bosphorus House

• Marvin from Ireland (8/10)

  This apartment is great value for money. It is located on the Asian side, surrounded by a ton of local shops and amenities. It is much cheaper and more spacious than most places you will find in the centres on the European side. And with the Marmaray train or the ferry it is very easy to get the European side too.

• Aishatu from Nigeria (9/10)

  The staff and the location was good close to train station and lots of eateries.

• George from Australia (8/10)

  Because the room was count as a studio, and it has all the facilities to make the breakfast ourselves. we were so happy about that to have a freedom to make whatever we like for the breakfast plus the shops are just next door.

• Abdul from Qatar (7/10)

  The staff was accommodating and kind; the room was spacious.

• Georgi from Bulgaria (9/10)

  The hotel is located 10 min walking distance from the asian side of Bosphorus strait.

• James from Greece (9/10)

  Very good value for money in Istanbul, where hotels are often expensive. The room was surprisingly large, and it was very clean throughout. It’s a in a great location only about 5-10 minutes walk from the main centre of Üsküdar, and the staff are all great. We stayed there for three nights and had a very comfortable stay.

• Fazil from Canada (8/10)

  Desk staff is very helpful and friendly.
  
  Clean and convenient.
  
  Great location, access to ferry close by.

• Mina from Italy (7/10)

  The location is good, not in the super touristic area nor so far away, it was a clean and spacious room with kitchenette

• Elizabeth from Canada (9/10)

  Good staff, good location.
  10 minutes walking distance to ferry and metro stations, and some restaurants.

• Aghayeva from Azerbaijan (7/10)

  Clean hotel, good staff

Surroundings

Facilities