Lonely Planet İstanbul Guide

Sarı Konak Hotel Kitchenettes and bathtubs in some rooms and suites. Sirkeci Mansion Indoor pool, family rooms with bathtub and in-house dining. Best Rooftop VIews Arcadia Blue Hotel Bar-restaurant overlooking Aya Sofya, the Blue Mosque, the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara. Four Seasons Istanbul at Sultanahmet Spectacular views of Aya Sofya and the Blue Mosque from the A’YA Rooftop Lounge. Hotel Ibrahim Pasha Intimate rooftop bar overlooking the Blue Mosque and Palace of İbrahim Paşa. TomTom Suites Bar-restaurant with spectacular view of the Bosphorus and Old City. Marmara Pera Panoramic 360-degree views from the rooftop swimming pool and bar. Vault Karaköy Golden Horn and Old City panorama from the rooftop bar restaurant.

Where to Stay

NEIGHBORHOOD FOR

AGAINST

Carpet touts can be annoying, but the biggest drawback is the lack of decent places to eat and drink. Many streets are deserted at night and on Sundays, so security can be an issue. Most restaurants and cafes only operate during the day.

Most of the major monuments and museums are located here, so it’s convenient for sightseeing; a handy tram service travels to Beyoğlu.

Sultanahmet & Around

You’ll be close to the shopping action in the Grand Bazaar and within walking distance of the major sights in Sultanahmet.

Bazaar District