10 Best Historic Hotels in Istanbul

With an astonishing history spanning the Ancient Greeks, Byzantines and Ottomans, Istanbul is one of the most culturally diverse and historically rich cities in the world. Experience a slice of this heritage with a stay in one of the top historic hotels in Istanbul. From glitzy former palaces to former prisons, here are 10 fascinating historic hotels in Istanbul.

Pera Palace Hotel

Meşrutiyet Caddesi 52. Tepebaşı Beyoğlu, 34430 Istanbul, Turkey

Said to be the longest-functioning hotel in the city, Pera Palace Hotel has a storied history as a luxury rest stop for those taking the Orient Express. Agatha Christie even wrote Murder on the Orient Express from room 411. It was built in 1892 and now boasts many of its period furnishings, exuding classical opulence through its glittering chandeliers and antique rugs. The hotel is based in a prestigious corner of Beyoğlu, close to the Pera Museum and Kasımpaşa Stadium.

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Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

Teyfikhane Sok No 1 Sultanahmet, 34110 Istanbul, Turkey

The Four Seasons is one of Istanbul’s most prestigious hotels boasting 5-star luxury through its rooms and facilities. Located in the heart of Sultanahmet, Istanbul’s famous historic centre, you’re a stone’s throw from highlights like Topkapı Palace and the Blue Mosque. The hotel’s history dates back to the late-Ottoman period when it was used as a jailhouse to house dissidents from 1918 – but you couldn’t tell from the lavish interiors.

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Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul

Ciragan Caddesi 32, 34349 Istanbul, Turkey

This palatial hotel is located next to Yıldız Park in a suburban area of Istanbul close to Dolmabahçe Sarayı. Despite its non-central location, it offers incredible views across the Bosporus from its glitzy infinity pool and many dining terraces. The palace was built in 1863 by Sultan Abdulaziz and his original sleeping quarters are now among the most expensive suites to rent in the world. Expect marbled interiors and plush, upscale rooms with impeccably trained staff.

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Celine Hotel Ottoman Mansion

Peykhane Cad. 28, 34122 Istanbul, Turkey

The Celine is a charming boutique hotel in Istanbul’s old historic centre, just a short stroll from the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar. This Ottoman mansion dates from the late 18th century and respects its tradition with tasteful Turkish fabrics and furniture. Bathrooms are marbled with walk-in showers, and an attractive original courtyard makes for an impressive dining space.

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Hotel Ibrahim Pasha

Terzihane Sok. – Sultanahmet 5, 34400 Istanbul, Turkey

This boutique townhouse hotel dates back to the 19th century. Perfectly placed along a quiet street in the historic centre, it’s moments from the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome and grand Haghia Sophia. The interiors maintain an authentic Ottoman charm with traditional beds, rugs, and wooden floors blended perfectly with contemporary features. A relaxing rooftop terrace provides incredible views across the city and its unique minarets.

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Hotel Empress Zoe

Akbiyik Caddesi 10, 34122 Istanbul, Turkey

This authentic, boutique townhouse hotel in the historic Sultanahmet area retains much of its century-old charm. With roof terraces, Ottoman-themed rooms and a wealth of delightful period details, this is one of the most atmospheric historic hotels in Istanbul. Not just your typical Ottoman townhouse, however, the spectacular ruins of a 15th-century bathhouse are found next door and are overlooked by the hotel’s restful garden.

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Hotel Miniature Istanbul

Alemdar Mahallesi Molla Fenari Sokak 22, Cagaloglu, 34110 Istanbul, Turkey

This 1875 mansion house hotel is close to many of Istanbul’s historic attractions, including Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The hotel itself has an alluring history as the former meetup place for Turkish intellectuals and then as an administrative centre for the local government. Despite this storied history, the hotel’s interiors are surprisingly modern, with urbane exposed brick and glitzy stone and marble bathrooms.

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Sumahan on The Water

Kuleli Caddesi, 51, Çengelköy, 34684 Istanbul, Turkey

This impressive and modern hotel on Istanbul’s tranquil Asian side rests on the banks of the Bosporus. Aside from its privileged riverside position and sumptuous room views, Sumahan on The Water has an alluring history of its own. The hotel is based in an old 19th-century distillery that made suma, the basis for Turkey’s national drink, rakı. The hotel port that once ferried figs to be fermented now welcomes hotel guests.

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Palazzo Donizetti Hotel

Asmalı Mescit Mh. Mesrutiyet Caddesi, 85, Taksim, Beyoglu, 34400 Istanbul, Turkey

This classic Italianate hotel was built in 1895 and is named after the famed musician Guiseppe Donizetti who resided on Asmalımescit Street. Boasting refined interiors of marble, bronze and wood, these suites have spectacular panoramic terraces and pretty Venetian motifs. It exudes a real sense of history and antique charm from its wood-panelled bar to its Ottoman-style spa.

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The Bank Hotel

Bankalar Caddesi No. 5, 34420 Istanbul, Turkey

The Bank Hotel is an elegant offering dating back to 1863. Once the HQ of the Credit General Ottoman Bank, the building contains exceptional Renaissance-style interiors with bright, airy rooms and well-polished granite. These original features are lovingly restored and updated with modern furnishings and facilities. It’s located in the hip Karaköy area, home to many hidden gems like the Jewish Museum and a wealth of fine bars.

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