Picolo recommends · Hotel in Istanbul, Turkey
Hotel Amira Istanbul
Up on the roof, tea arrives as the lights come on along the Asian shore and the ships queue for the Bosphorus below.
In the evening the roof terrace fills with guests drinking tea while the lights flicker on across the water on the Asian side. Below, cargo ships wait their turn to sail into the Bosphorus.
Amira lies in Küçük Ayasofya, the quieter southern part of Sultanahmet that runs down towards the Sea of Marmara. The Blue Mosque is just up the hill, yet the streets around the hotel feel residential and calm.
Picolo’s verdict
Why we chose Hotel Amira Istanbul
Amira has earned its reputation through the people who run it. Staff remember small things, such as how you like breakfast, and for a first trip to Istanbul it feels safe, central and personal.
Rooms are on the small side and there is no real bar. If you like to spend your evenings in the hotel, this is not the place; it suits travellers who are out exploring until late.
What you get
- Roof terrace with views over the sea
- Evening tea served on the roof
- Attentive, personal service
- Breakfast made to your liking
- Quiet streets close to the Blue Mosque
A day at Hotel Amira Istanbul
- Morning
- Breakfast with a view of the ships in the Sea of Marmara.
- Midday
- Walk up to the Blue Mosque and Little Hagia Sophia.
- Afternoon
- Head down to the shore path along the Sea of Marmara.
- Evening
- Tea on the roof as the Asian side lights up.
Location
Küçük Ayasofya, Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey
Open in MapsQuestions about Hotel Amira Istanbul
Where is Hotel Amira Istanbul located?
In Küçük Ayasofya, on the southern side of Sultanahmet below the Blue Mosque, in calm streets that run downhill towards the sea.
Does Hotel Amira Istanbul have a bar?
There is no bar to speak of. The roof terrace serves tea in the evening, but most guests go out for dinner and drinks.
Is Hotel Amira Istanbul good for a first visit?
Yes. It is central, calm and known for helpful staff, which makes it a reassuring base if you have never been to Istanbul.
Other hotels nearby
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet
For the old city in a former prison with a courtyard.
Updated 6 Nov 2026All articles
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