Hotel Empress Zoe

Kelley Get's Lost and Goes Local in ISTANBUL

at Hotel Empress Zoe
A charming hotel on the main street in Sultanahmet, the Empress Zoe really has it all. It is convenient--you will walk past the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sofia every day--and there's a tram stop in that square as well which will take you everywhere in the city.
Though the hotel is located on a lively street with bars, hookah and restaurants, don't be fooled--inside it's a quiet oasis and from the courtyard you feel like you are world's away. We enjoyed their breakfast spread and wine in the evenings, and the courtyard was perfect to read a book or plan our next day's itinerary.
The rooms were comfortable, clean and very Turkish--just what you want when you are in this magical city. You can opt for a double or queen in the main house, or a larger suite, which would be great for a family or a longer stay, since it has kitchen facilities.
The only thing I could have done without was the 5am call to prayer that woke me up every morning, but I'm pretty sure the Empress Zoe Hotel could not do anything about that...;)