Hotel Empress Zoe | City stay in Istanbul | Book Now

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Hotel Empress Zoe Istanbul Exterior photo

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About the Hotel

Cankurtaran Mahallesi Akbiyik Caddesi No 10 Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey, 34122

Steps from the Historic Old Town

Perfect

9.1

/10

4.8

Loved by Hotel Empress Zoe guests

Comfortable rooms
Helpful staff
Delicious breakfast
Charming garden
Excellent location
Cozy atmosphere

"Breakfast is served buffet and the seating is in an amazing open courtyard which is an amazing way to start your day."

Alison from United States

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"We loved getting a drink in the evening on the roof top deck where the view can't be beat!"

staceytann from United States

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"The location is amazing to explore the old town, it's honestly less than a 5-minute walk to Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia."

Fernanda from Brazil

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Amenities

Hotel Empress Zoe offers a captivating blend of careful design and historical charm. The hotel includes a rooftop terrace with views of the iconic Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. A full-service restaurant provides authentic Turkish cuisine, while room service adds convenience for guests.

Rooms

The hotel provides a range of unique accommodations, from traditional Turkish-style rooms to modern suites. Each room features distinctive decor, antique furnishings, and an en-suite bathroom. Select rooms include private balconies offering city views.

Location

Situated in the heart of Sultanahmet, the hotel is steps away from famous landmarks including the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Guests can explore local shops and cafes within a short walk from the hotel. Proximity to public transportation makes tours of Istanbul easily accessible.

Dining

The on-site restaurant serves traditional Turkish breakfast, with options such as menemen and fresh breads. Guests can also enjoy a selection of local and international dishes throughout the day. Outdoor seating is available for a refreshing dining experience.

Wellness

Hotel Empress Zoe offers wellness amenities including a sauna and a well-equipped fitness center. A variety of massage treatments are also available for relaxation after a day of exploring. Personalized wellness packages cater to individual needs.

Highlights

Location: Heart of Sultanahmet, steps away from famous landmarks

Rooms: Traditional Turkish-style rooms with unique decor

Dine: On-site restaurant serving traditional Turkish breakfast

Wellness: Sauna and a well-equipped fitness center

Must-do experiences

Visit the historic Basilica Cistern for a unique underground experience.
Savor a traditional kebab at Zübeyir Ocakbaşı, a local favorite.
Explore the vibrant Spice Bazaar for unique souvenirs and spices.
Don't miss the stunning views from Galata Tower at sunset.
Take a Bosphorus cruise to see Istanbul's skyline from the water.

Location: Perfect

9.8/10Review score

See hotel location on map

Guest Emotional Experience

Away at HomeHumble Like Home

“You would feel like home when stay here because of the humble outdoor garden that will cheer u up in the morning for breakfast.”

Gift K from Australia

Explorers, Not TouristsTurkish Oasis

“It is an oasis in the midst of a hectic city- quite lovely - and quintessentially Turkish in feel and design.”

Susanna Macomb

Shine on SocialsInstagrammable Oasis

“The views from the rooftop terrace stunning and the garden was a lovely oasis from the busy streets.”

Wood from United Kingdom

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Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.

Double Room Garden View

2 persons

130 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Small Double Room

2 persons

110 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Single Room

2 persons

110 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Large Double Room

2 persons

270 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Heating

room details

Click button to see more rooms

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Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay

Facilities: Great

8.8/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Security
Luggage storage
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Guest Parking

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance

Dining

Outdoor dining area
Dinner

Business

Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots

Spa & Leisure

Beach umbrellas
Sun terrace
Garden area

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Parquet floor

Hotel Empress Zoe Location

Cankurtaran Mahallesi Akbiyik Caddesi No 10 Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey, 34122

Map view

Cankurtaran Mahallesi Akbiyik Caddesi No 10 Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey, 34122

City landmarks

Mosque

Suleymaniye Mosque

1.7 mi

Landmark

TGC Press Media Museum

4100 ft

Bridge

Galata Bridge

1.3 mi

Landmark

Column of Constantine

4100 ft

Landmark

Mausoleum of Mahmud II

2500 ft

Mosque

Laleli Camii

1.3 mi

Square

Beyazit Square

1.2 mi

Mosque

Little Hagia Sophia

2.6 mi

Landmark

Mosaic Museum

2.4 mi

Mosque

Sokollu Mehmet Pasa Mosque

2.6 mi

Nearby

Museum

Hagia Sophia Museum

1600 ft

Mosque

Blue Mosque

1600 ft

Alemdar Mahallesi

Basilica Cistern

1600 ft

Square

Sultanahmet District

1600 ft

Museum

Topkapi Palace

1600 ft

Cankurtaran Mh.

Topkapi Palace harem

1600 ft

Museum

Istanbul Archaeology Museums

1600 ft

Cankurtaran Mahallesi Ayasofya Meydani No:2 Fatih

Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamami

1600 ft

Historic Areas of Istanbul

1600 ft

Monument

Serpent Column

1600 ft

Binbirdirek

Walled Obelisk

1800 ft

Prof. Kazim Ismail Gurkan Cad. No: 24 Eminonu

Cagaloglu Hamami

1600 ft

Alemdar Mah. Alemdar Cad. Eminonu/Cagaloglu

Gulhane Park

1600 ft

Museum

Hagia Irene

1600 ft

Museum

Istanbul Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam

1600 ft

Caferiye Sk. Sogukkuyu Cikmazi No:5

Caferaga Madrasa

1300 ft

Museum

Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts

1800 ft

Kabasakal Cad. No:2 Sultan Ahmet Mahallesi

Tomb of Sultan Ahmet

1200 ft

Sultanahmet Meydani

Obelisk of Theodosius

1600 ft

Fountain

German Fountain

1600 ft

Restaurants

Albura Kathisma Cafe & Restaurant

1800 ft

Cankurtaran Mah. Yeni Akbiyik Cad. No: 36-38

Divella Bistro Restaurant

1500 ft

Cankurtaran Mah. AkbIyIk Cad. Adliye sok. No:11/A

Kosk Restaurant

1600 ft

Cankurtaran

Mesopotamian Terrace Restaurant

1500 ft

Akbiyik Cd

Titu Alaturka Otelcilik

1600 ft

Cankurtaran Mahallesi Akbiyik Caddesi No: 3

Terrace Restaurant

1500 ft

Ebusuud Cad. Amisos Hotel No:2 Fatih Sirkeci

just Topdeck Cafe & Bar

1600 ft

Cankurtaran Mahallesi

Turk Art Terrace Restaurant

1800 ft

Cankurtaran Mahallesi

Explore Istanbul

Explore Nearby Activities

Hagia Sophia Museum

6 minutes' walk

A stunning museum showcasing Byzantine architecture and art, featuring historic mosaics and vast domes.

Blue Mosque

6 minutes' walk

Known for its majestic blue tiles, this iconic mosque offers guided tours and stunning gardens.

Basilica Cistern

6 minutes' walk

An underground marvel with ancient columns and eerie lighting, perfect for a unique cultural experience.

Topkapi Palace

6 minutes' walk

The former residence of Ottoman sultans, featuring exquisite artifacts and lush gardens open for exploration.

Walking Tours

6 minutes' walk

Guided tours around Sultanahmet reveal rich history and hidden gems, ideal for cultural enthusiasts.

Sultanahmet Arkeolojik Park

6 minutes' walk

A tranquil park perfect for relaxation, featuring antique ruins and beautiful landscaping.

Biking around the Golden Horn

25 minutes' drive

Rent bikes and enjoy scenic rides along the Golden Horn, ideal for adventurous travelers.

Albura Kathisma Cafe & Restaurant

2 minutes' walk

Offers Turkish cuisine with a historic ambiance, known for its kebabs and local wines.

Divella Bistro Restaurant

1 minute' walk

A cozy bistro featuring Mediterranean flavors, popular for its fresh seafood and vegetarian options.

KosK Restaurant

1 minute' walk

Charming atmosphere with modern twists on traditional Turkish dishes, outdoor seating available.

Mesopotamian Terrace Restaurant

1 minute' walk

Known for its exquisite Middle Eastern dishes, ideal for both large groups and intimate dinners.

Galata Bridge

25 minutes' walk

A vibrant spot with lively local fishermen, restaurants, and stunning views of the Bosphorus.

A Turkish Night Show

10 minutes' drive

Enjoy folk music and dances in an entertaining show, suitable for family and couples alike.

Cultural Festivals

10 minutes' drive

Seasonal arts and food festivals celebrating Turkish culture, attracting visitors and locals.

Getting around

City Centre

Istanbul11 min · 3000 ft

Airports

Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International (SAW)65 min · 26.8 mi

Istanbul (IST)76 min · 31.1 mi

Train

Sultanahmet Tram Station6 min · 1700 ft

Underground

Vezneciler24 min · 1.2 mi

Halic27 min · 1.4 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

At the hotel Empress Zoe guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Languages

English, Russian, Turkish, Ukrainian

Number of rooms:

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Hotel Empress Zoe is often praised for its prime location, a short walk from major attractions like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, allowing guests to easily explore the city. The hotel features a lovely garden where guests enjoy breakfast and a rooftop terrace offering great views. Some guests have noted that certain rooms can be on the smaller side, but most appreciate the unique design and comfortable atmosphere. The Turkish breakfast, served in a peaceful setting near an ancient hamman ruin, is a highlight for many.

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Review score

Based on 603 verified reviews

9.1/10

Perfect

97%

Recommend

Location

9.8/10

Staff

9.7/10

Facilities

8.8/10

Free Wi-Fi

9.0/10

Pros

Helpful staff

Delicious breakfast

Excellent location

Cons

Road noise

Adrian from Germany

Single

Large Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 16, 2026

9.3/10

charming stay near major sights

delicious optionsrooftop terraceattentive staff

The breakfast buffet presented delicious options. i appreciated the fine rooftop terrace. The views were so nice after long walks. the staff helped me with directions and recommendations. They were very attentive to my needs.

the spiral staircase posed slight difficulty when carrying luggage.

Location

9/10

the hotel stood a short walk from main tourist areas. it felt relatively peaceful despite its proximity to popular sites. its location was really convenient for exploring local attractions.

Rooms

9/10

My room was spacious. The double glazing ensured a quiet night. the bed was comfortable. I liked the ample storage. its size suited my needs well.

Service

10/10

Staff members were kind. They offered a very warm welcome. taxi arrangements worked smoothly. The communication before arrival was helpful. i was charmed by their hospitality.

0 Helpful

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Andrei from Romania

Family with children

standard double room

4 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:September 14, 2025

9.0/10

historic center gem

great locationcharming garden

the hotel's location proved convenient. hagia sofia was a short walk (around 5 minutes). the staff were friendly and helpful. our room featured a small balcony, a nice bonus. the hidden garden and rooftop terrace added charm. it had ruins, i liked watching the kitties (they were very cute).

our room faced the street so we had to deal with noise from the restaurants across the street.

Service

9/10

the staff readily provided assistance with directions and recommendations. i appreciated their friendly and professional manner (they were really helpful with everything). the 24/7 filtered water access was another plus.

Location

9/10

this accommodation is located near major attractions. many landmarks are within a 10-minute walk. transportation options are easily accessible (it was so easy to get around).

Dining

9/10

breakfast included a good food variety. the courtyard setting was really idyllic. i enjoyed the pastries and fresh fruit options. this was a very nice experience.

0 Helpful

Elena from Spain

Single

Standard Double Room

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:August 13, 2025

9.5/10

cozy stay Near historical wonders

safe neighborhooddelicious breakfastrooftop terracelovely garden

I found the location superb, just around the corner from major attractions. a short walk led me to the sea. the neighborhood felt safe, which i appreciate. breakfast offered fresh produce and homemade baked goods. It was delicious. the rooftop terrace provided great views and a lovely garden area existed too.

The room i stayed in needed some fresh paint. It felt a bit dated.

Service

10/10

The staff members were friendly and helpful. They helped carry baggage. they also arranged my airport transfers. i received sightseeing advice from them too. They gave twenty-four hour service.

Facilities

9/10

The hotel breakfast had lots of local dishes available. i brought my food into the garden. there was filtered water available all day. a cat, Sophie, lived at the hotel. She was friendly.

0 Helpful