Special Hotels in Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul's Special-Class hotels offer character, specifically Ottoman character. Some were built during the Ottoman Empire, others have been restored to the character of that era, still others strive for an Ottoman ambience.

Recognizing that some unique hotels did not fit its standard star classification system, Turkey's Ministry of Culture and Tourism created 'S' (Special) Class to designate hotels and inns that may not meet all the technical requirements for a certain star rating, such as number of guest rooms or restaurant seats, but that had other advantages, such as character, historical interest, and/or charm.

Special Class hotels are smaller than the standard 4- and 5-star luxury hotels, with fewer staff whom you'll get to know more easily. Each has special charms or advantages. Most are as comfortable as any modern hotel rating three or four stars.

Sirkeci Konak
Among the newest of Istanbul's S-class inns, it has distinct advantages: high-class comforts and services, a quiet location right beside the Topkapi Palace walls, only steps from a tram stop and a 10-minute walk to Sultanahmet, it's also an easy walk to the Golden Horn. More...

Hotel Tashkonak
Quiet, convenient, friendly (and family-friendly), with a charming little "secret garden" where the loudest sound is birdsong! More...

Sari Konak Oteli (Yellow Mansion)
A small inn with Ottoman ambience, all the comforts, an understated elegance, and true family friendliness.

Sumahan on the Water
Stylish, elegant boutique hotel, family-owned and run, with fine Bosphorus views...because it's right on the Bosphorus shore. More...

Mavi Ev Hotel (Blue House)
Right across the street from the Blue Mosque, with fabulous views, extra-friendly service, and all mod cons. More...

Dersaadet Oteli
Lots of dark wood and bright smiles at this carefully restored and maintained 17-room inn in a quiet location with sweeping sea views from the rooftop terrace. More...

Yesil Ev (Green House)
The first Ottoman traditional house to be restored as an inn, it's still among the best, and right next to the Blue Mosque.

Hotel Ararat
Istanbul's equivalent of the atmospheric little Left Bank Paris hotel you may have stayed in years ago, directly—and I mean directly!—opposite the Blue Mosque.

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Above, Sirkeci Konak Hotel: charm, comfort, and lots of white marble.
Below,Sumahan on the Water, with the best possible Bosphorus views.