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Descend the steps into the Byzantine Cistern—a hidden underground realm beneath Istanbul’s streets. Hundreds of marble columns rise like a forest, their shadows dancing on still water, echoing centuries of silence. This isn’t just ancient engineering; it’s a dreamlike journey through time. Stand still, listen closely, and feel the weight of history whispering through the stone.
This hotel is your perfect gateway to explore Istanbul! Overlooking the Bosphorus Strait, it offers breathtaking views and is surrounded by cultural landmarks, blending modern luxury with tradition. The elegantly designed rooms feature deep-soaking tubs and rain showers for a spa-like retreat. Don’t miss the infinity pool and sun terrace on the rooftop—ideal for Instagram moments! Food lovers will adore the diverse dining options, from Anatolian flavors to world-renowned Nobu cuisine, plus 24-hour room service for ultimate convenience. Business travelers can enjoy luxury car services and a 24-hour business center, making it a seamless stay for work and leisure.
This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of Istanbul, offering easy access to shopping centers and entertainment spots, perfect for both families and business travelers. Rooms feature plush bedding and designer toiletries for a homely comfort. Enjoy a variety of amenities including outdoor and indoor pools, SPA tub, and kids' pool for family fun. Dining options are diverse with 2 restaurants and bars, plus 24-hour room service. Business facilities are comprehensive, with nearly 2000 sqm of meeting space, making it an ideal choice for events.
Looking for a luxurious and convenient stay in Istanbul? This hotel is your perfect choice! Nestled in the heart of the city near Taksim Square, it offers breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and the Blue Mosque. Unwind at the spa, indoor pool, or traditional Turkish bath. Traveling with kids? Enjoy the children's play area, kids' pool, and childcare services. Business travelers will appreciate the executive lounge, meeting rooms, and business center. With thoughtful Chinese-friendly services, you'll feel at home even overseas.
Your dream Istanbul getaway starts here! Perfectly located in the heart of the city, this hotel puts you steps away from major attractions. Whether you're traveling with kids or on business, you'll love the indoor pool and authentic Turkish bath. Little ones will adore the kids' pool and childcare services, giving parents time to relax. Upgrade to an executive floor for exclusive lounge access. Unwind with a drink at the bar or explore nearby restaurants famous for roasted lamb shank. With Chinese signage and special services for Chinese guests, your stay will be seamless.
Located in the heart of Istanbul, this hotel offers prime access to iconic landmarks like the Grand Bazaar and Taksim Square. Enjoy modern rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing stunning views of the Bosphorus and cityscape. Unwind at the indoor pool, spa center, or 24-hour fitness center. Dining options are plentiful, from all-day dining to a bar and executive lounge, plus a Starbucks for your caffeine fix. Whether for business or leisure, the hotel caters to all needs, with thoughtful amenities like Chinese-friendly services to make your stay truly memorable.
Nestled in the heart of Istanbul, this hotel seamlessly blends business and leisure. With easy access to shopping centers and business districts, it’s a prime location for all travelers. Unwind at the luxurious spa or tranquil gardens after a busy day. Levantino Restaurant offers East Mediterranean flavors with a twist of Chinese cuisine, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Cap off your evening at the Sheraton Café’s sushi bar with signature cocktails. Whether for family trips or business stays, the thoughtful amenities and impeccable service here will make your visit unforgettable!
In the heart of Istanbul, this luxury hotel ticks all boxes! Kid-friendly amenities like a pool and special menus keep little ones happy, while the executive lounge and meeting rooms cater to business needs. Unwind with a spa massage or traditional Turkish bath, then hit the 24/7 gym. Steps from shopping malls, the bar is perfect for evening cocktails. Rooms feature smart TVs and premium bedding—pure home comfort!
This hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Istanbul, offering easy access to the city's main attractions. The executive lounge and business center make it ideal for business travelers, while the pool and spa massage provide the perfect relaxation after a day of exploration. The newly renovated rooms are peaceful and comfortable, ensuring a good night's sleep. Don’t miss the Turkish bath and sauna for an authentic local experience. The restaurant serves a mix of local and international cuisine, and the Chinese-friendly service adds a welcoming touch. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel promises an unforgettable stay!
This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of Istanbul, just a 5-minute drive from the Bosphorus Bridge and Çırağan Palace, offering unbeatable convenience! Enjoy the executive lounge, indoor pool, and spa treatments to unwind after a busy day. With a 24-hour business center and express check-in, it's perfect for business travelers. At night, relax at the bar or savor international cuisine at Arts Restaurant. Rooms are equipped with minibars, flat-screen TVs, and free WiFi, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay!
This hotel is the perfect blend of business and leisure! Located in the heart of Istanbul, just a few minutes' walk from shopping paradise, with free WiFi and 24-hour room service, it's incredibly convenient. The SPA massage and Turkish bath are highlights, perfect for unwinding. Enjoy the pool and fitness center to stay energized. Rooms feature heated floors and LED TVs for ultimate comfort. Whether for work or vacation, this is your ideal choice!
Dreaming of a luxury getaway in Istanbul? This hotel is your perfect choice! Centrally located just 5 minutes from Ciragan Palace and shopping malls, it's ideal for both business and leisure. Unwind at the full-service spa, indoor pool, or sauna. With 3 restaurants and bars plus 24-hour room service, dining is effortless. The business center and meeting rooms are fully equipped for events. Rooms offer homely comforts with free WiFi and LED TVs. Pet-friendly amenities mean your furry friends can join the trip too!
This hotel is a perfect choice for family trips! With a kids' playground and children's club, your little ones will have endless fun. Adults can unwind with a Turkish bath or spa massage. Located just 15 minutes' walk from Taksim Square and Istiklal Street, you'll have easy access to shopping and dining. Enjoy the indoor pool and fitness center for a complete stay. Don't miss the daily free reception to mingle with other guests. The international restaurant and 24-hour room service ensure you're always well-fed!
This executive apartment is the perfect blend of business and leisure! Located in the heart of Istanbul, it's super convenient with Zorlu Center and Taksim Square just minutes away. The steam bath and 24-hour fitness center are highlights, along with free WiFi and a lobby fireplace for ultimate relaxation. Don't miss the daily free reception to meet fellow travelers. Rooms are top-notch with heated floors, premium bedding, and a fully equipped kitchen—it's like a home away from home! Plus, the free shuttle to nearby malls is a game-changer.
Everything you need to know about Byzantine Cistern
Constantinople Palace Hotel is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from the Byzantine Cistern, offering rooms with vaulted skylights that create an immersive atmosphere reminiscent of ancient Roman architecture. The hotel features a Mediterranean-style courtyard perfect for morning or evening contemplation amidst historical ambiance. Complimentary shuttle service connects major attractions, and private guided tours allow guests to explore the cistern's over 100 marble columns and hidden centuries-old secrets.
Another excellent option is Istanbul Archaeological Museum Hotel, housed in a 19th-century mansion with original stone masonry and Oriental rugs. Situated near the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, it’s ideal for travelers seeking a blend of Eastern and Byzantine culture. Each room includes soundproof windows ensuring tranquility even in a bustling city environment.
Both properties lie in the heart of Fatih District, with a 8-minute walk to the underground museum. Their central location makes them perfect bases for in-depth exploration of Istanbul’s rich heritage.
Yes! The Night Tour of the Underground Cistern is highly recommended, featuring immersive storytelling with atmospheric lighting and historical soundscapes that transport visitors back to 6th-century Constantinople. Interactive puzzles challenge guests to find hidden symbols beneath the colonnades, unlocking a limited-edition Byzantine copper coin replica upon completion.
Another must-try is the Mosaic Art Workshop, held at a traditional atelier adjacent to the cistern. Participants craft their own Byzantine-style mosaic mirror using authentic colored tile fragments, with bilingual instruction suitable for families and art enthusiasts. All materials are historically accurate and eco-friendly.
Additionally, the monthly Ancient Roman Dining Night, hosted on the third Saturday, transforms the cistern into a temporary dining hall. Guests enjoy restored dishes like honey wine, spiced goat cheese, and dried figs, accompanied by live lyre music. Organized by the Istanbul Heritage Preservation Society, these events combine education, culture, and sensory immersion in a safe, authentic setting.
The most convenient route is walking—just 500 meters (5–8 minutes). Head straight along Cankurtaran Street, pass the entrance to Ataturk Park, then turn right onto Sultanahmet Square, where Hagia Sophia’s massive dome becomes visible.
Along the way, you’ll pass remnants of a 14th-century mosque and local Turkish handicraft stalls, enriching the cultural journey. For those preferring public transit, take the Istanbul Metro M2 Line to Sultanahmet Station, with exits directly opposite Hagia Sophia. The ride takes only 3 minutes, avoiding tourist bus congestion.
The station features ramps, elevators, and bilingual signage, making it accessible for seniors and visitors with mobility challenges. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid crowds and witness the stunning morning light filtering through the dome. If time allows, visit the Blue Mosque nearby—only 300 meters away—creating a breathtaking cluster of religious architecture.
Absolutely! The underground cistern itself is the ultimate photo spot—especially at dusk, when warm light filters through the vaulted ceiling, casting dreamy shadows across the 100+ weathered marble columns. Ideal for symmetrical compositions or reflection shots on the still water surface. Use a tripod and slow shutter speed to capture the rippling column reflections.
Another popular site is the Greek Orthodox Church Ruins in the northwest corner, featuring preserved Byzantine fresco fragments and cruciform reliefs. Its textured walls provide rich background depth for historical portrait photography. Nearby shaded pathways offer panoramic views of the Hagia Sophia dome, enhancing spatial composition.
Also consider the fountain sculpture and vintage streetlamps in front of the Istanbul Archaeology Museum square, perfect for black-and-white or cinematic-style portraits. All areas have free public restrooms and multilingual information boards, making them ideal for photographers seeking both beauty and convenience.
See what other travelers say about Byzantine Cistern
We brought a long-time colleague to Istanbul for a business trip, and staying at The Ritz-Carlton was a top-tier choice. From the moment we arrived, the service was impeccable—professional, warm, and attentive without being overbearing. The hotel’s location is unbeatable: just steps away from the metro and within easy reach of major landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Bosphorus. Waking up to views of the city skyline and the sea every morning felt truly special. The rooms were spacious, elegantly designed, and spotlessly clean, with thoughtful touches that made the stay feel luxurious yet personal. It’s one of those rare hotels that captures the soul of Turkey while delivering world-class comfort. I’d definitely return and recommend it to anyone visiting Istanbul—whether for business or leisure.
Staying at the Fairmont Quasar Istanbul Hotel was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, attentive service—always smiling, always helpful, making every moment feel special. The room was spacious, elegantly designed, and incredibly comfortable, with a perfect blend of modern luxury and Turkish charm. I especially appreciated the excellent soundproofing, which made for a peaceful night’s sleep despite being in a vibrant city. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from public transit, giving easy access to major attractions. Breakfast was a highlight: a diverse spread with both international and local flavors, all freshly prepared. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s a memorable experience. I’ll definitely be returning and recommending it to friends and family.
Staying at the InterContinental Istanbul felt like stepping into a timeless classic—this is one of those exceptional hotels that truly stands out. The service was impeccable from start to finish, and it’s clear this property was built with serious attention to detail back in its prime. Located right in the heart of Istanbul, it’s incredibly convenient for getting around—just a short walk to the metro and surrounded by great local vibes. The breakfast spread was outstanding: fresh, diverse, and delicious. I especially loved the in-room aromatherapy—using a local brand that brought a unique, authentic touch to the space. From the thoughtful touches to the genuine cultural experiences woven throughout the stay, every moment felt special. If I ever return to Istanbul, this hotel would be my first choice without hesitation. A perfect blend of heritage, comfort, and local charm.
Staying at Hilton Istanbul Bomonti was an absolute delight. The hotel lives up to the classic Hilton standard with top-notch materials throughout—beautiful marble, elegant woodwork, and luxurious bedding that made every moment feel premium. Cleanliness is exceptional; it’s clear they take hygiene seriously. The staff were incredibly responsive—anything I asked for arrived within minutes, and they went above and beyond with their hospitality, making me feel safe and well taken care of. Just a short walk to the left is a highly-rated grill restaurant (check it out on Dianping—it really lives up to the hype). The place feels brand new, impeccably maintained, and offers such a refreshing experience. I’d definitely book here again. A standout choice in Istanbul.
My two-night stay at the Istanbul Marriott Hotel Sisli turned out to be one of the most bizarre experiences I've had across many countries. On day one, after using the restroom, I noticed the entire inside of the toilet bowl was covered in dried urine stains—quite disgusting. I immediately called the front desk requesting cleaning, and a staff member arrived shortly afterward. He was diligent and thoroughly cleaned the area, so I gave him 100 Turkish lira as a tip—a gesture I genuinely appreciated. The next morning, during breakfast, a hotel manager approached guests for feedback. When it was my turn, I mentioned the previous night’s hygiene issue. She listened attentively, took down my room number, and promised to look into it and possibly upgrade our accommodation. I left the hotel feeling hopeful. Around 10 PM that evening, I returned and was told we’d been moved to the highest floor. I assumed this meant a room upgrade—my excitement was real. But when we finally reached the 33rd floor, things took a strange turn: the elevator didn’t go directly there. We had to transfer to a smaller elevator via the 30th or 31st floor, then walk through a narrow corridor. Once inside the new room, I was shocked—the space was noticeably smaller than our original room. Beds were pushed closer together, and we lost the desk and sofa entirely. The bathroom had shrunk by nearly half. This wasn’t an upgrade—it felt like a prank. Disappointed, I asked to return to our original room. We had to retrace our steps through multiple elevators, which was extremely inconvenient. Later, my colleague requested tea leaves be sent up. The front desk confirmed it would come promptly—but over an hour passed with no delivery. Only after I called again did someone finally arrive. Throughout the entire stay, the two hand soap bottles on the sink remained dusty, untouched by housekeeping. Even worse, during the final two nights, I found a mysterious stain under the bed cover when I lifted the blanket—too tired to complain, I just avoided that spot. Another incident involved the lounge server: when I asked to settle my bill, she ignored me completely—no eye contact, no response—even after three attempts. I had to step outside to smoke a cigarette before returning and standing right in front of her until she finally handed over the invoice. I paid in cash. To be honest, this experience fell far short of what I expect from a five-star hotel. Service, cleanliness, and facilities were all subpar. Despite giving at least 100 TL in tips daily, I got very little in return. If you're considering a Marriott stay in Istanbul, please look elsewhere. This property offers terrible value for money.
Staying at the Sheraton Istanbul Levent was an absolute highlight of our trip to Istanbul. The location couldn’t be better—right next to the metro station, making it super easy to explore the city. We arrived early in the morning and were thrilled to check in by 9 AM, which meant we could hit the historic district by 10! The front desk staff deserves a special shoutout—they were incredibly helpful, friendly, and made our arrival seamless. From the grand lobby to the spacious, immaculate rooms with modern amenities, every detail exudes quality and comfort. The breakfast spread was impressive—diverse, delicious, and served in a pleasant atmosphere with attentive service. Daily room cleaning ensured everything stayed fresh and tidy, so coming back after a full day of sightseeing felt like stepping into a cozy retreat. This hotel truly elevated our Istanbul experience. If you're looking for a well-located, stylish, and thoughtfully run place to stay, this is absolutely worth it.
Our stay at the Sheraton Istanbul City Center was absolutely outstanding. From the moment we walked in, the staff made us feel right at home with their warm, genuine hospitality. The atmosphere is elegant yet welcoming, and every interaction—whether it was checking in, ordering room service, or just asking for directions—was handled with care and attention. The location is unbeatable: just a short walk from major attractions and a quick metro ride to other parts of the city. Our room was spacious, beautifully decorated, and spotless, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The breakfast buffet offered a great mix of local and international options, all fresh and delicious. What truly stood out was how consistently thoughtful the team was—small touches like personalized welcome notes and prompt assistance made a big difference. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a memorable experience. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Istanbul.
This hotel feels like home the moment you walk in—warm, welcoming, and incredibly comfortable. The location is perfect; everything I wanted to explore was just a short stroll away. From local cafes to major attractions, it’s all within easy reach. I keep coming back because of the excellent service, thoughtful touches, and that cozy, familiar vibe. It’s not just a stay—it’s an experience. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Istanbul.
Staying at Radisson Blu Hotel in Istanbul Sisli was an absolute highlight of my trip. The location is perfect—just steps away from the metro station, making it super easy to explore the city without hassle. The room was spacious, clean, and well-designed, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. I loved the breakfast spread—huge variety, fresh ingredients, and a great mix of Western and local flavors. Everything was delicious and plentiful. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout the stay. For the quality, service, and convenience, this hotel offers incredible value. I’d definitely come back and recommend it to anyone visiting Istanbul.
Staying at Point Hotel Barbaros was an absolute highlight of my trip to Istanbul! The view from the room is simply breathtaking—overlooking the Bosphorus and the city skyline, especially stunning in the morning light. The hotel is perfectly located for exploring the city, with easy access to public transit and nearby attractions. Rooms are clean, modern, and well-maintained, with comfortable beds and thoughtful touches throughout. Staff are friendly and attentive without being intrusive. It’s rare to find such a great balance between location, comfort, and value. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Istanbul—definitely a top pick!
Staying at The Elysium Taksim was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from the bustling Taksim Square and within easy reach of public transit, making it simple to explore the city. The staff were incredibly responsive; every time I reached out to reception, they answered promptly with a friendly tone. To my surprise, I was upgraded to a larger room at no extra cost—such a nice bonus! The room was spacious, clean, and well-appointed, making for a comfortable stay. Everything about this hotel exceeded expectations, and I’d definitely return. Highly recommend for travelers looking for convenience, great service, and value.
Staying at Glens Palas Istanbul was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, attentive service—always smiling, ready to help, and genuinely making you feel welcome. The room was spotless, beautifully decorated, and incredibly comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night's sleep. Located just minutes from the metro, getting around Istanbul was a breeze. I loved how close it was to local restaurants, markets, and major attractions. It’s rare to find such a well-maintained hotel with such a great location and friendly atmosphere. Highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting Istanbul—it’s truly one of the best stays I’ve had in years!
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