We couldn’t resist a quick weekend getaway to one of the world’s most fascinating cities… and our fantasy of being pampered like royalty came to life at Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet. This luxury boutique hotel put us within walking distance of Istanbul’s most dazzling sites where East and West collide — who’s looking for a Turkish adventure?!
Ajwa Hotel’s central location in the historic Old Town gave us the perfect jumping off point to explore in style. This place literally feels like an Ottoman-inspired dream — from its old-world charm to the eye-popping views overlooking centuries of living monuments. Get ready for some serious #TravelGoals…
The ultimate hidden gem in the heart of Istanbul
In a city as big as Istanbul, Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet still manages to stand out. We’re not sure if it’s because of the insane attention to detail on showcase or its prime location, but this place takes regal luxury to new heights. Here’s what guests can expect…
- Arrive in style: Want to roll up to the hotel in a Bentley or an ultra-luxury van? Your airport pickup options let you arrive like a VIP.
- Live like royalty: The interiors of the hotel feel more like a palace than hotel. It features antique Syrian-style furniture gorgeously decorated with mother-of-pearl, silk Turkish rugs, and white marble throughout. Fun fact: restoration artists from Topkapi Palace even helped to beautify the hotel.
- Family-friendly vibes: The halal-friendly hotel is a dry property that caters well to GCC families looking for a tranquil escape in the heart of Istanbul’s magnetic chaos.
- Art on your doorstep: Ajwa Hotel runs the nearby Verni Art Gallery, a stunning space filled with unique pieces and artifacts. It’s just minutes away and gives you a chance to soak up the neighborhood charm.
Sleep better than a sultan
This boutique hotel resembles a cozy private mansion, with 61 guest rooms and suites that are straight out of an Oriental fairytale. We spent a few royal-style nights in the ultra-swanky Sultan Suite — which felt more like Topkapi Palace then a hotel room. After a day of sightseeing, here’s why you’re going to rest easy here…
- Free mini bar: How many hotels offer complimentary local snacks and beverages — restocked daily?!
- Art in every room: Nothing personalizes a space like unique art on the walls — it’s like sleeping inside of a gallery.
- #BathroomGoals: The Turkish know a thing or two about hammams, so expect a design inspired by lavish Ottoman architecture — including beautiful Iznik tiles that you’ll want to take home. Oh, and they even individually wrap all your all towels in linen bags!
- Sea views: Take a room overlooking the Sea of Marmara and the Old Town — it’s better than any postcard you’ll find at the Bazaar.
- Pillow-menu: You’ve got a choice of six different pillows to rest your head. Is this heaven?
- Swap the hotel for a private villa: Perfect for larger GCC families, the hotel has a sister property called Ajwa Homes made up of three-storey, four bedroom classical Turkish houses — and they even come with a dedicated chef.
Things to do while staying at Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet
- Relax in a Turkish hammam: Istanbul boasts some magnificent hammams that are centuries old, and Afiya Spa in Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet feels like a luxurious modern-day version. We tried a traditional Scrub and Foam Massage — nothing like laying back on a hot marble slab while the room fills with suds!
- Go for a dip: The indoor lap pool has segregated timings for men and women — it’s a great spot to unwind with a bit of privacy.
- Dine with postcard-worthy views: The top-floor Azerbaijani restaurant Zeferan boasts panoramic views overlooking the Sea of Marmara and the Old Town including the Blue Mosque. Don’t miss the gourmet mixed grills and pilaf — it’s a pie-shaped rice creation drenched in butter and ohhhh-so good.
- Enjoy all-day breakfast: From fluffy home-made pancakes to a traditional Turkish spread, breakfast is complimentary and served up all day long. Make sure to sample the street-food favorite called simit — it’s addictive for any bread lover!
- Sip on afternoon tea: Order a traditional Turkish blend and enjoy it in the hotel’s opulent library — it’s super cozy and one of our favorite places to unwind.
- Go shopping in the Grand Bazaar: Istanbul’s iconic Grand Bazaar is just a 5-minute walk from the hotel — convenient if you’ve got your hands full of shopping bags (we speak from experience!)
- Walk to the tourist sites: In a massive city like Istanbul, Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet puts you within walking distance of all the best attractions. It’s just 10-15 minutes to reach the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Museum and Topkapı Palace by foot — there’s no need for taxis or public transport!
All you need is one long weekend to transport yourself to the centre of Istanbul’s culture and heritage — what are you waiting for?! For reservations and more details, visit Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet or email info@ajwa.com.tr.
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