Hotel Ibrahim Pasha

We could walk to the palace, mosques, Bazaar, and several other spots, and as two women on our own we weren't bothered, day or night. Just use common sense. If I make it back to Istanbul, I'd stay at Hotel Ibrahim again, and I tell people who travel more than I do that they can't go wrong there. My daughter and I stayed during a short Istanbul stopover two years ago. We wanted to be near the Grand Bazaar and other sights, and somehow choosing Hotel Ibrahim turned out to be the best decision of the trip. Meri arranged rides both from and back to the airport. The instructions for finding the pickup desk weren't clear, and we ended up outside without a way back in, but he got the car to our spot in the parking garage. That felt safer than trying a taxi in a country we didn't know. Our room was tiny, up on the top floor under the roof slopes, with twin beds and one window looking toward the Blue Mosque. Still, it was one of the BEST rooms we've ever had. The beds were INCREDIBLY comfortable, and the layout made good use of the little space so it didn't feel cramped. Breakfast came each day, with a pleasant choice of hot and cold food. The different sitting areas were charming and cozy, full of books and smelling like old books. Everyone on staff was lovely and helpful, especially Meri. Maybe a little too attentive, since they tried to stop us going out in sweaters because they thought it was "cold." LOL. For Chicagoans, it felt like spring. Meri and I also had a fun chat about how Turkish and English vowels are pronounced. Thanks for a memorable, wonderful stay.

The location worked really well, near lots of tourist spots and some great restaurants. I also enjoyed the rooftop view, breakfast, service, and atmosphere. The hotel itself felt cozy, almost like an art piece. The rooms were very small and felt suffocating, and the bathroom was cramped too. When I showered, water ended up all over the bathroom. There also wasn't 24/7 in-room dining.

The roof terrace looks straight toward Sultan Ahmet (Blue) Mosque, and the view is breathtaking. The hotel is a charming little gem in a great spot, with well-appointed rooms and a very good breakfast. Every staff member was delightful and helpful.

The terrace is fabulous, just a few steps from the blue mosque, and the whole place is a lovely, striking spot to stay. It's a beautifully styled boutique hotel that's clearly well looked after. Rivan and the team were as welcoming and helpful as anyone could be. Thank you.