National Geographic Traveler contributing writer Don Webster is almost always on the road. Today he sends a dispatch about his favorite boutique hotel in Istanbul.

Photo: View from the hotel rooftop in IstanbulWhile I’m a long-time fan of Istanbul‘s boutique hotels (a decade-old trend that just seems to keep improving), there’s a new favorite on the horizon.

As a rule, these places are usually reasonably priced, very comfortable, accommodating, and are well located in the city’s oldest quarter, Sultanahmet.

Though the Hotel Empress Zoe–located in the shadow of the Hagia Sofia–has been a perennial front-runner, with the Hotel Nomade surging in second place, my new favorite is the Hotel Ambassador.

A sleek neighbor to the Nomade, The Ambassador is centrally located, has an amazingly friendly and helpful staff, wireless internet throughout, and, at 100 Euros a night, is a steal. Still, the best part about it is its amazing rooftop terrace: with free morning guest breakfasts and a bar for afternoons and evenings. The view alone is worth it.

Here’s a glimpse…..

For more on Istanbul, check out our 48 Hours trip planner as well as our city guide on National Geographic’s Travel and Cultures site.

Photo: Don Webster

Comments

  1. Cathy Healy
    May 20, 2010, 4:56 pm

    Don,
    You’ve sold me!
    This is one of the most extraordinary views I’ve ever seen from a hotel room…or for that matter, any room.
    Thanks for posting this.
    Cathy Healy
    IT Contributing Blogger

  2. Mehmet
    May 25, 2010, 12:51 pm

    Boutique hotels in Istanbul offer something different to their visitors than their big five star counterparts. It is their location, history, decor, customized service and overall unique ambiance that makes the difference. Check this out for more; http://www.best-of-istanbul.com/boutique-hotels-istanbul.html

  3. Elva
    June 22, 2010, 6:38 pm

    Does anyone in Istanbul have a recomendation for a nice hotel with a balcony and a view? My husband and I will be in Istanbul for five nights and want to stay some place really special. Thanks!

  4. dukesfolly
    July 24, 2010, 9:29 am

    The finest of Southport hotels Dukes Folly Hotel ideally located at the corner of Duke Street and Lord Street Southports famous Victorian shopping boulevard,hotels in southport uk,finest of Southport hotels, Dukes Folly Hotel Southport UK.

  5. Dogan - Hotel Istanbul
    http://www.ottomanhotelpark.com/
    August 5, 2011, 7:17 am

    Nice Hotel. Thanks for sharing. I love to visit this Istanbul Hotel

  6. Ahmet
    istanbul
    October 31, 2011, 9:02 pm

    There is too many good hotels in istanbul just googling on http://www.istanbulairportshuttletransportation.com

  7. Tahsin
    istanbul
    December 28, 2011, 3:06 am

    Deniz Houses Hotel http://www.denizhouses.com is a very good choice with reasonable price and excellent location in Sultanahmet.

  8. Mehmet Yaman
    London
    August 1, 2012, 9:27 am

    I stay in Rooms Galata. The hotel was so quite. It is located in Taksim – Galata – Istanbul – Turkey. They have nearly 16 rooms and all of them designed on contemporary design. You must taste this hotel when you go to Turkey. http://www.roomsgalata.com

  9. Reydan
    Istanbul
    April 15, 3:26 pm

    Retaj Royale Istanbul would be the good choice. Close to the airport, free shuttle service , SPA.
    Check the web-site http://www.retaj-hotels.com/