Hotel Empress Zoe, Istanbul

We had a very comfortable suite with palatial bathroom. The suite's terrace overlooked an ancient hammam, a lovely wild garden and a glimpse of the sea plus we had our own gate into the property from the street. It's a five minute walk to Topkapi Palace. Breakfast was outstanding - a wide range of food to choose from with something different every day, served by delightful members of staff. In fact all hotel staff were very helpful and friendly. We were sorry to leave.

The only thing wrong was the lack of water pressure when the hot tap was turned on which made showers little more than a dribble.

Design features, location, staff, breakfast, lovely garden and rooftop deck

Street noise

Delicious and beautifully presented breakfast , and the staff were very helpful. Great experience!

The winding staircase!!

Incredible location just by the Topkapi Palace walls, beautiful and peaceful garden, nice staff and very good breakfast.

Rooms are quite small, as you'd expect for a historic building. Our room facing the garden was very quiet, but those facing the road I imagine would be quite loud as the area is loud.

A beautiful building, amazing history behind it ( the old Turkish bath ruins behind it )- right up my street being an interiors journalist - love authentic old buildings. Very relaxed atmosphere and great people working there

Can’t really fault it really

Breakfast spread was very nice, the staff were all extremely friendly, the garden was quiet and incredible.

N/A

Location, character and decor

Too many restaurants around it,a bit noisy

The location was perfect! The staff was extraordinarily helpful and kind. The breakfast was very good.

Great location in the old town away from the hassle. Lovely staff and great breakfast.

Nothing

JUST AMAZING. Everything is 10+. It took me some time to find this historic hotel by searching for a not overpriced but really cool place and im so happy I found it. Really cool building and historic decor, super helpful and friendly staff, gorgeous garden and very delicious breakfast. Close to everything if are looking to stay in Sultanahmet.

Lovely courtyard, very close to lots of the main things to see, delicious breakfast .... it feels like a little oasis in the center of the city.

We liked everything.

Look, there are a lot of stairs but you’ll know that if you have looked at the website. We had a garden suite so the room and the space was great. Breakfast was eat as much as you like,and you can take it out in the garden. Staff were friendly and helpful and the porters hefted our luggage up and down from the room. Oh, and they have an iron and ironing board. It has a lovely feel to it and I wish I was still there.

The garden

The wonderful helpful staff, breakfast, and decor made it more authentic. Lovely garden area to sit and eat breakfast or just hang out. The location was right in the heart of the historical sites all within 5-10min walk. Grand Bazaar and Spice Markets 20min. Tram way 5min walk. Restaurants abundant on doorstep.

The spiral staircase was a bit scary to start but got use to it.

Central to everything

The rooms were not as spacious as I was anticipating Very small for what we paid

Nice people, unique, excellent spot, charming room, amazing view

The room was large and very cosy but felt a bit “dusty” Some restorations are needed

Lovely, peacefull spot in the main touristarea of the city. Staff is helpfull and very friendly. Great breakfast. Highly recomended.

Nothing.

Lovely hotel close to major cultural attractions. Beautiful traditional decor, pleasant and helpful staff, delicious breakfast, and adorable hotel cat, Sophie (who needs to slim down).

I found it a bit hard to read in my room without a proper reading lamp. The beautiful wall sconces were not enough. But that was a minor problem. I loved this hotel.

Friendly environment

Everything was amazing

Excellent staff Unique experience Great location

It was ecactly as expected

Nothing

Great location, quirky and unique, excellent breakfast, really helpfull staff

In some rooms the beds are too short

Delightful wisteria covered small hotel in great location. Easy walk to all the attractions. Beautiful room with terrace and a top view.

Not a complaint, but the winding stairs could challenge some people. Grateful to staff for carrying bags up to our room.

Rooms full of character, very comfortable and helpful staff.

Beautiful rooms, excellent location. Lovely garden and breakfast. Beautiful terrace overlooking harbour , views with scented wisteria. Staff welcoming and helpful , lovely cat and an oasis of calm in city. Very close to palace, blue mosque etc .