Istanbul Hotels - how far ahead to book?

There are a gazillion hotels in Istanbul and tourism is way down. I don't think you'll have any issues finding a nice hotel, and the prices should be quite competitive. Obviously if you find a place you like and the room is refundable should you change your mind, then there is no downside of booking it now either. I think it will be easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of hotels in that city. Most people stay in the Old City/Sultanahmet but there are many other neighborhoods to choose from too.

In April this year, I booked 2 months ahead for 5 nights in Istanbul. If I remember correctly, my first choice was fully booked. Well actually, my first choice was closed for renovations, so that was my second choice and I ended up with a reasonable 3rd choice. From what I saw, the hotel I wanted is undergoing major changes and will be much over my budget when it is finally completed.

As Agnes says, as long as your reservation has no penalty for cancellation, you might as well book sooner than later.

I don't know what you consider a "good" hotel. For me, it's clean, comfortable, well-located, and budget-priced. If you are looking at high-end hotels, I don't know if they ever get fully booked up.

U are gonna to be fine even if u book before you come. Hampton by Hilton in Zeytinburnu, I stayed at that hotel. Can recommend u that hotel. Close to Metro station. ( Marmaray)