Binbirdirek Mahallesi Dizdariye Cesmesi Sokak No 1, Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey | (888) 252-1244
Within a few blocks of many major attractions near Sultanahmet Square
Rooms range from affordable basement options to larger suites and apartments
Small rooftop terrace with pretty views
Free breakfast buffet
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Friendly staff lends to the warm atmosphere
Elevator is convenient
Bathrooms are small and unattractive
Rooms on the ground level can get noise from the lobby
No full restaurant or bar
This two-pearl hotel has a prime location down the street from Sultanahmet Square, putting most of old Istanbul’s major attractions, like Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, within a short walk. The Sultan House is located in a former residence, so it has a home-like feel enhanced by the friendly staff. Ten rooms range from literal bargain basement options on the lower level to larger Deluxe Suites. A nearby annex houses four two-room apartments large enough for six guests. While the rooms are clean, the bathrooms are tiny and could use a good scrubbing. Free buffet breakfast is available each morning and there’s a rooftop terrace with lovely views, though there’s not much in the way of services. The nearby Garden House Hotel has a similar atmosphere and rates, with nicer bathrooms.
Scene
Feels like staying in someone’s home, with a nice rooftop terrace
Housed in a renovated residence, the homey vibe here is strong. The front part of the hotel does double duty as a lobby and breakfast lounge. The brown leather sectional sofas and wooden coatrack by the door give it the feel of a living room. Shelves are crammed with decorative plates, vases, and other local artisan knickknacks. Guests here (a mix of families and couples, usually tourists) tend to be busy exploring the city and trying one of the nearby cafes, so any activity is kept to breakfast. The rooftop terrace, which offers lovely views, is a simple spot to watch the sunset.
Location
In the center of old Istanbul, near Sultanahmet Square
The hotel sits on a narrow, quiet street around the corner from a road that leads to Sultanahmet Square, with the Hippodrome of Constantinople, a stadium and landmark of old Istanbul. On the way is the historic Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants in the surrounding area. It’s a 12-minute walk to Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar. Topkapi Palace, from the Ottoman Empire, is a 20-minute walk. Istanbul Atatürk Airport is a 25-minute drive or about 50 minutes by public transportation.
Rooms
A range of price levels and sizes, with tiny bathrooms
The hotel’s 10 accommodations include inexpensive basement rooms, Standard Rooms, and larger Deluxe Suites. Decor is traditional, dominated by bleached woods and sage floral fabrics. Bathrooms are cramped, with tiny vanities, boring beige tile, and noticeably worn metal fixtures. Due to the close quarters, rooms on the main floor can get early morning noise from the breakfast room and reception area. Amenities include small flat-screen TVs, minibars, and safes. A nearby annex has four two-room apartments with similarly classic decor that can accommodate up to six guests.
Features
Free buffet breakfast and a small roof terrace with views of the city
Features at Hotel Sultan House are almost non-existent. The hotel serves a substantial free buffet breakfast with a mix of hot and cold dishes. A rooftop terrace is small, but has nice views of the Blue Mosque and the minarets on the Hagia Sophia church. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. Laundry and dry cleaning services are available for an additional fee. There is free parking nearby.