All hotels were selected through careful research, with a focus on warmth and thoughtful service.
Sultania Hotel
Hotel Services
Stepping into Sultania Hotel, I felt an immediate sense of belonging—a warm welcome that truly set the tone for my Istanbul adventure. The team here, from the concierge to the housekeeping staff, seemed to anticipate every need, offering assistance with such genuine warmth that it left a lasting impression. I remember how they graciously helped me navigate a tricky situation at the Grand Bazaar, even sending a staff member along to ensure everything was resolved smoothly—a thoughtful detail that made me feel truly cared for. Their 24-hour room service and laundry options made my travels so much easier, and having a transit card available for use was a small, yet meaningful, gesture of hospitality.
Room Information
My room at Sultania Hotel offered a cozy retreat, designed with an elegant touch that felt both luxurious and inviting. The deluxe double room, with its comfortable bed and plush bathrobes, became a peaceful haven after busy days exploring. While some guests have noted the rooms might feel a bit smaller than anticipated, or found the glass bathroom enclosure less private, I appreciated the in-room amenities like the coffee/tea maker and complimentary bottled water. There was a gentle, quiet comfort to the space, though a few mentioned occasional noise from nearby streets, which opening the window helped to alleviate.
Facility Features
Dining Experience
Dining at Sultania Hotel was a delightful experience, especially the breakfast buffet which boasted a generous spread of Turkish and continental options—a wonderful start to each day. I particularly enjoyed the complimentary afternoon tea, a quiet moment of indulgence with lovely treats. The Olive restaurant on the top floor presented stunning city views, making every meal feel like a special occasion. While some found the breakfast selection to be quite average, or noted that the restaurant in front of the hotel could be a bit pricey, the overall dining experience felt thoughtfully curated, blending local flavors with a comfortable atmosphere.
Culinary Offerings
Guest Reviews
Excellent Stay
Hi Don;t even think about looking for any other hotel in Sultanamet Area. Nothing better than this. How to start — They didn;t make any wrong move to upset the travellers ( me ) Its a small but cosy hotel in Old Istanbul Area. Tram station is not even 2 minutes away ( connect the complete Old Istanbul Area ) Good , Neat and clean rooms. We got a corner room which had 4 windows and excellent View.
Expectation exceeds. We are surprised and delighted by a few things at this hotel.
We only stayed there for 1 night before heading out to other cities but we were very impressed. – Early check-in: Our international flight arrived at 6 am and they gave us early check-in so we can rest and refresh from long flight before our sightseeing begins. They said it’s not usually guaranteed but they will try to accommodate it if it’s available. – Room : Although a bit small to fit 2 luggages, room is actually very comfortable. And the bed, so comfy and we rested very well in it after our long flight and full day of activities.
Address
Ebusuud Avenue Mehmet Murat Street No.4, Sirkeci, Sirkeci, İstanbul, Türkiye, 34110
Romance Istanbul Hotel
Hotel Services
The Romance Istanbul Hotel truly understands the art of making a guest feel known and cherished. From the moment I was welcomed with warm Turkish tea at check-in, I sensed a personal touch that transcended typical hospitality. The staff was incredibly attentive without hovering, readily assisting with itinerary planning and even booking a memorable Bosphorus cruise for me. Their complimentary afternoon tea, laden with cakes and fresh fruits, felt like a thoughtful daily ritual—a quiet invitation to unwind. It was the kind of place where kindness shows in every interaction, making my stay feel truly gracious.
Room Information
My room at Romance Istanbul Hotel was a beautifully appointed space, echoing traditional Ottoman charm with unique talismans that added a layer of intrigue. The king bed, draped in plush linens, promised a restful night, and the presence of a fireplace added a cozy, romantic feel—a little luxury that truly elevated the experience. While some mentioned the city rooms could be smaller or noted occasional tram noise, I found the space impeccably clean and remarkably comfortable, with good soundproofing ensuring a peaceful ambiance. Having a private balcony with city views was a lovely bonus, perfect for quiet mornings.
Facility Features
Dining Experience
Dining at Romance Istanbul Hotel was a highlight, especially the breakfast buffet which offered a delightful array of fresh pastries, cheeses, and hot dishes—a truly generous spread that left me feeling well-nourished for the day ahead. The complimentary afternoon tea was a particular favorite, providing a lovely interlude with coffee, tea, and sweet treats. For those seeking convenience, 24-hour room service is a thoughtful option. The hotel’s commitment to providing both local and international flavors ensures a satisfying culinary journey, making meals feel like a warm extension of the hotel’s hospitality.
Culinary Offerings
Guest Reviews
A Memorable Experience!
We had a wonderful experience during our 6-night stay at the smoke-free Romance Istanbul Hotel. The staff are professional, friendly and extremely helpful. The concierge staff person, Shirin, was particularly helpful guiding us to a wonderful show at the Hodjapasha Cultural Center featuring traditional Turkish dances in a magical round theater setting. While all the staff were great, particular thanks also go to Onder and Hakan. The hotel’s location is phenomenal and within a short walk of the most important destination in Istanbul including the Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Haghia Sophia and the Architectural Museum (to name a few).
A hotel I want to stay at again.
Ideally located about a 10-minute walk from major tourist attractions in the old town such as the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. What I realized during my visit was that Istanbul has many hills and cobblestones. Also, at the beginning of May, the mornings are cold enough to require a light coat, but during the day it can be hot enough to wear short sleeves, creating a significant temperature difference. Sightseeing in such conditions can be physically demanding, but because of the hotel’s prime location, it’s easy to return to the room quickly when tired. The time spent resting in my room was invaluable.
Address
Hudavendigar 5, Sirkeci, İstanbul, Türkiye, 34110
Fer Hotel
Hotel Services
At Fer Hotel, the service truly left a lasting impression, making me feel incredibly valued and seen. The staff, like Ibrahim and Onor, went above and beyond, offering genuine assistance from arranging airport transfers to providing wonderful local suggestions. Their courteous and professional demeanor, coupled with a willingness to accommodate requests, created an atmosphere where kindness showed in every interaction—it wasn’t just service, it was true care. While there were moments when the staff seemed busy, their overall attentiveness and the daily housekeeping ensured my stay felt effortlessly comfortable and well-managed.
Room Information
My room at Fer Hotel offered a modern and elegant sanctuary, blending contemporary furnishings with a profound sense of comfort. The king bed was wonderfully comfortable, ensuring deep rest after long days of exploration. While some rooms might face a noisy street or have an unusual inner-facing window, I found my space to be clean and well-maintained, providing a quiet yes to relaxation. Little thoughtful details like coffee/tea provisions and bottled water added to the overall coziness, making it a delightful place to return to each evening, though a few guests mentioned occasional temperature control issues.
Facility Features
Dining Experience
Dining at Fer Hotel began with an elegant breakfast buffet, offering fresh pastries, fruits, and a selection of hot and cold dishes—a solid foundation for the day. Having 24-hour room service available with an extensive menu was a thoughtful convenience for late nights or quiet mornings. While some guests found the breakfast to be a bit repetitive or had mixed experiences with the in-house restaurant, the availability of a dedicated halal restaurant was a welcome inclusion. The surrounding area also offers a diverse array of nearby dining options, ensuring a variety of culinary choices.
Culinary Offerings
Guest Reviews
A Perfect Stay at FER Hotel – Highly Recommended
FER Hotel was the best decision we made in Istanbul. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warm, elegant hospitality that rivaled any five-star luxury hotel. The hotel is stylish, clean, and beautifully maintained. We stayed in a corner suite room, which was ideal for three people. The room and bathroom were spotless, with all amenities thoughtfully provided.
Location location
It is our first time to Istanbul and so we decided to stay at the old city. All major tourist spots are within 10-15 min of walk from Fer Hotel. The Grand Bazaar is just 5 min away. So even after shopping, or if you need to take a nap in the afternoon in order to stay away from the unbearable heat, this is the place. Turn left to the busy street and you can find a few goldsmiths, exchange rate of which is even better than the bank.
Address
Mollafenari Mahallesi Turbedar Sokak. No:12 , Sultanahmet, İstanbul, Türkiye, 34120
Mara Old City Hotel
Hotel Services
The Mara Old City Hotel truly captured my heart with its incredibly helpful and friendly staff. From the moment I arrived, they were forthcoming with fascinating historical knowledge and practical tips for exploring Istanbul, making me feel instantly at ease and well-informed. Their dedication to service was evident in their willingness to arrange airport transfers and organize tours, turning potential logistical worries into seamless experiences. It was the kind of place where the staff’s attentiveness transformed my stay, creating a sense of being genuinely looked after, which is something I cherish most when traveling.
Room Information
My room at Mara Old City Hotel, though compactly designed at 11 square meters, felt surprisingly cozy and thoughtfully organized. The modern furnishings and impeccable cleanliness created a welcoming atmosphere—a quiet space to recharge. While some guests noted the smaller size and potential for limited luggage space, the double glazing did an admirable job of keeping city noise at a reasonable level, ensuring a peaceful night’s rest. It was a comfortable and functional retreat, perfect for a solo traveler or a couple seeking a clean, well-maintained base for their city adventures.
Dining Experience
Dining at Mara Old City Hotel offered a taste of authentic local flavors right on-site, with a restaurant serving traditional Turkish dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The breakfast buffet provided a pleasant start to the day, featuring pastries, cheeses, and fresh fruits. While some guests experienced some misunderstandings regarding breakfast details upon booking, the on-site offerings, complemented by a wealth of nearby dining options, ensured a satisfying culinary exploration of Istanbul’s vibrant food scene.
Guest Reviews
Honestly could not fault this place. A+++
I really enjoyed my stay at Mara Old City Hotel. Not only was the location so convenient to all the tourist attractions and public transport but the staff were absolute gems. Ferhat and Aslan were so helpful and very forthcoming with information on where to go as well as providing context and historical knowledge of Istanbul. I wish I could have stayed longer at Mara (honestly it was much better than the hotel my tour group was booked into). The rooms were exceptionally clean and of a decent size, especially in a city like Istanbul.
Very Good Hotel with Modern Facilities
We booked the room after reading their homepage and google reviews thinking that they had breakfast and Turkish bath. In fact they did not. I think the homepage and some reviews were misleading. The room had no place to open our luggage, so I had to put mine on the floor. Besides, the room was equipped with modern furniture and kept super clean.
Address
Hoca Paşa, Serdar Sk., Fatih, 1, Sirkeci, İstanbul, Türkiye, 34110
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