The Four Seasons Sultanahmet – Istanbul, Turkey

Pre Arrival

This one was on my wish list, I have seen the hotel many times on travel reviews.

Perfect opportunity for a layover in Istanbul on our way to Egypt…who wants to spend 7 hours in between flights at an airport.

I did spend a week or so debating whether to stay here, at the other FS on the Bosphorus or even over on the other side at the Ritz or St Regis…very difficult decision. The location won and it turned out to be perfect for a first time visit to the city.

Before arrival I had contacted them via messenger regarding the smoking room and had asked for a price for their transfer which was extortionate at 180 euros + 18% vat one way so I booked one through Effendi Travel at 32 euros.

Arrival

We arrived around lunchtime, reception staff were friendly but there is no welcome drink or refreshing towel, something not offered at Four Seasons apparently. We were taken to our room which was very nicely furnished but with a small window set half below ground level so we had a wonderful view of the plants and ankles….not quite the same as the picture of the room on the website! I cannot explain why I did not complain that we had been given a Superior Room, the thought process did not take place.

Room

A classically furnished bedroom which was extremely comfortable and spotlessly clean, with plenty of wardrobe space, chair, coffee table and desk.

The marble bathroom was a decent size with sink, separate toilet, bath and separate shower.

Room Size: 42 - 45 sqm

Room Facilities

• Toiletries by L’Occitane
• Tea and coffee machine provided plus plenty of drinking water.
• International TV Channels
• Fresh fruit daily.
• Plenty of Hangers
• Safe
• Iron and Ironing Board
• Dressing Gown and slippers
• Hairdryer
• Free Wifi

Dining

Although breakfast was not included in our rate we ate at the Seasons Restaurant located in the garden courtyard which has a good breakfast buffet and a la carte menu.

We chose Eggs Benedict just for a change, very good 9/10.  There is seating inside and out, smoking allowed outside.

The hotel really only has the one restaurant, Seasons although you can have light lunches and afternoon tea in the lobby lounge.  We never had the opportunity to try the restaurant for lunch or dinner due to the two weddings but I doubt if we would have eaten here anyway.  No time for the afternoon tea unfortunately!

Amenities, Spa and Gym

There is no pool at the hotel but you are welcome to get the shuttle over to the FS Bosphorus.

The website says there is a Spa available but I have a feeling it may be at the other FS.

There is a gym on site to work off all that hummus and delicious yoghurt dip.

Restaurants / Bar

Seasons - Breakfast and Mediterranean cuisine

The Lounge - light lunches, afternoon tea and cocktails

A'ya Terrace - rooftop lounge with the best views of Hagia Sofia whilst sipping cocktails.

Conclusion

Perfect location for seeing all the sights in Istanbul, just a 5 minute walk from Hagia Sofia, plus it is a lovely building. Lots of restaurants, bars and shops in the vicinity.  Service good and staff in general helpful, there is a laid back feel to it.  Reception were really helpful in trying to change our return flights albeit unsuccessfully and also giving us the card for the tram system.

 

So only annoyances were the two back to back weddings which was probably the reason for the poor room location.

 

Besides the location the A’ya Rooftop Lounge has the best view of the Hagia Sofia and awesome cocktails…. I would stay again just for these two reasons.

 

TIP - use the concierge to book your tours, they can provide the tram tickets and museum passes.

Four Seasons Sultanahmet, Istanbul

Perfect for your first visit to Istanbul due to the location, this cannot be beaten. Click the logo to visit their website