Hotel Valide Sultan Konagi is a 19th century converted Ottoman mansion in the heart of the Old City.

This boutique hotel is a converted 19th century Ottoman mansion set in an excellent position for guests to enjoy the Old City attractions. It is behind Aya Sofya and next to the walls of the extensive Topkapi Palace and grounds, and hence just minutes from these attractions and many others.

The Hotel Valide Sultan Konagi (or Queen Mother Mansion Hotel) has 17 comfortable, yet traditionally furnished guest rooms and from the rooftop terrace café and restaurant, where the complimentary open buffet breakfast is served, there are wonderful views of the Old City, the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara.

Location: Situated in the heart of Sultanahmet, the Old City, Hotel Valide Sultan Konagi is approximately 13 miles (20km) from Istanbul Ataturk Airport. The nearest tram stop is within 10 minutes walk.

Nearby Attractions: This Istanbul hotel is in a great position from which to enjoy the attractions of this historic part of the city. Overlooking Topkapi Palace and grounds in one direction and Aya Sofya in the other gives you an idea as to what an excellent location this is. By foot, Aya Sofya and Topkapi Palace can be reached in less than 5 minutes. Meanwhile, the magnificent Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome and various other attractions and museums can be reached in less than 10 minutes. From the nearby tram stop you can take the tram up to the Grand Bazaar or to Eminonu where you can cross the Golden Horn to the newer part of the city or get on one of the many Bosphorus ferries.

Facilities & Services: For a small boutique hotel, the facilities and services are really quite good. There is a forecourt patio where guests can enjoy a drink whilst watching the world go by. Inside, the lobby has an attractive lounge area. Facilities at reception include internet access and safe deposit boxes. Unlike many other converted Ottoman mansions, this Istanbul hotel does have a lift to access all floors easily, including the Rooftop Terrace Café and Restaurant. Here there are stunning views out to the Bosphorus, the Sea of Marmara, Aya Sofya and Topkapi Palace, and guests can enjoy the open buffet breakfast as well as drinks and food throughout the day. Additional services include laundry and dry cleaning and car parking.

Accommodation: There are just 17 rooms at the Hotel Valide Sultan Konagi which are all decorated and furnished in more traditional Ottoman styles, though without being too over the top or pretentious. There are attractive hardwood floors with authentic Turkish rugs and all the modern comforts are still included, such as air conditioning, cable television, direct dial telephone, free wireless internet and mini bar. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms with shower cubicle and hair dryer. Rooms are of varying styles and sizes – the largest is the Princess Room with four poster bed.

 

Key Facts: 4 star (self-rated), 17 rooms, Sultanahmet location, Rooftop Terrace Café and Restaurant, picturesque views from the rooftop, wireless internet, car parking.