With decent-sized contemporary rooms, an expansive lobby, bar and a rooftop restaurant with outstanding views of Sultanahmet and the Bosphorus, plus professional levels of service, the Richmond is a high-quality, if slightly characterless accommodation option. Crucially, however, it’s the only hotel on the entire length of Istiklal Caddesi, the pedestrianised artery of Beyolu. Located towards  Istiklal’s southern end, the Richmond is only a short walk away from many of Beyolu’s hotspots, including the meyhane-packed Asmali Mescit district, which is just over the road. It’s also close to Galata, where you can hop in a cab for the short ride to the Old City: ideal for visitors planning to split their time between sightseeing and experiencing Istanbul’s more contemporary pleasures.