Four Seasons Istanbul at Sultanahmet
The 65 room boutique Four Seasons hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, occupies a superbly renovated early 20th-century Ottoman building in the distinctive style known as First National Architecture. The structure was built as a prison for suspected political criminals. It was actually featured in the famous movie “Midnight Express” although now you wouldn’t mind doing time here.
At Four Seasons hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, Valets, doormen, porter and reception staff, all sleekly garbed, make a noteworthy first impression. The turreted facade reflects both medieval and Ottoman inspiration; the little turret is a mescit (chapel) available to visiting dignitaries from the Muslim world. Original faience tiles and marble columns are used to good effect, and a Byzantine wall skirts the grounds. Candlesticks mark the arched, marble-paved lobby and reception. Continental furnishings, modern and impressionist art, and futuristic lighting mingle with reminders of Suleyman the Magnificent's reign.
The central courtyard, with a tile and stone fountain and alfresco dining, offers a pleasant respite from city hustle and bustle. Seasons at Four Seasons hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, the garden restaurant serves international specialties, including Ottoman Turkish and vegetarian dishes. The sitting area, library and opulent blue salon provide plush surroundings with a bit more Turkish ambience.
The spacious guest rooms at Four Seasons hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet feature high ceilings, subdued color schemes, plush carpeting, blackout drapes, fine reproductions, brocade armchairs and sofas, large desks, and one king or two twin beds. The lovely baths have deep tubs, stall showers ringed by ornate mosaics, vanities wrought from antique-style highboys, marble counters, gilt framed mirrors and Oriental rugs atop marble floors.
Standard and superior rooms at Four Seasons hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet are large, but the vast deluxe rooms on the third and fourth floors are as large as some suites. Most rooms at Four Seasons hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet face the courtyard, which has the advantage of quiet in the midst of a bustling city, and suites and some deluxe rooms boast wonderful views of Aya Sofya. The 11 one- and two-bedroom suites at Four Seasons hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, many with living areas downstairs and bedrooms above have Ottoman-inspired decor. Guests at Four Seasons hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet are surprised by new treats such as fresh fruit or pastries each time they return to guest’s rooms. Personalized stationery is a nice touch, too.
About half the rooms at Four Seasons hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet are smoke-free, and women traveling alone can request rooms close to reception. One room is adapted for disabled guests. Return guests receive small tokens of recognition. The smiling staff seems able to handle even the most daunting requests.
Four Seasons hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet has no pool so some may prefer the new Four Seasons Istanbul at the Bosphorus which is more resort in feeling. Having said that, Four Seasons hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet is still the best location for those who prefer the ambiance of the old city; do not care about a pool and prefer to be closer to sightseeing. Monuments close by include the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia and the Topkapi Palace.
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