Hotel Ibrahim Pasha

A sophisticated small hotel in the heart of the Sultanahmet, with a tasteful blend of Ottoman art and a fresh contemporary style

Ibrahim Pasha was a prominent Grand Vizier of Turkey’s Ottoman period and the 16th century palace he built stands beside the hotel that bears his name. His was a turbulent, traumatic life but his namesake is a tranquil, soothing respite from the bustle of Istanbul.

Godot will be waiting for you when you enter, the master’s beautiful white Labrador, lying quietly beside the glass-topped reception desk where you will be greeted courteously and given keys to your room. But wait: you might want to sit by the fireplace in the deep leather sofas on the lobby's bright rug and read the selection of magazines and guides to Istanbul. Or browse the book shelves on the pale mustard walls of the library, with its Ottoman wall hangings and antiques. No? In that case, head straight up the parquet square-spiral stairs to the striking mosaic roof terrace, with its eye-catching view of the Blue Mosque - one of the hotel's real trump cards.

Even after the thrill of these lovely spaces, you won’t be disappointed with your bedroom. Clean, modern, and with a smart use of space, it has just enough Turkish ornaments to remind you that you’re in Istanbul, one of the world’s most ancient and artistic cities - and privileged to be staying in one of its best boutique hotels.

Highs

• Classy conversion of two four-storey 19th century Ottoman townhouses
• Fabulous roof terrace with unbeatable views of the Blue Mosque and the Bosphorus (with a bar in the summer)
• Substantial and delicious buffet breakfast served till nearly noon
• Tucked away down a sidestreet, but very close to Haghia Sophia and the sights of Sultanahmet
• Even in winter, fireplaces and candles keep it warm and cosy

Lows

• Some of the standard rooms are a bit small; it can be worth paying extra for the deluxe's size and features
• No restaurant, but staff have a well-researched list of local favourites and will make reservations
• The morning call to prayer is a bit loud but seems to diminish throughout the day and there is virtually no street noise
• A bit of a hike to the busier nightlife neighbourhoods such as Beyoglu