Historic Heart, Modern Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet
Istanbul, Turkey
In the old-city heart of Istanbul — just steps from the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque — the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet offers a rare fusion of historic architecture and Four Seasons-style hospitality. Located at Tevkifhane Sokak No. 1, Sultanahmet, Istanbul, the hotel occupies a striking yellow neoclassical building originally built around 1918-1919 and later converted into a luxury hotel. 
Location & Ambience
The property is deeply embedded in Istanbul’s historic peninsula, making it especially convenient for visitors looking to explore the city’s rich past. From the hotel, you can walk to major attractions such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Basilica Cistern.  The setting brings calm despite the hustle of the city, thanks to the quiet courtyard garden and premium service.
Architecture & Character
What sets this hotel apart is its building’s story: once a prison (the former Sultanahmet Jail) and now beautifully restored into a luxury stay.  The architectural style retains neoclassical details—arched windows, ornate stonework—while interiors have been refined to deliver modern luxury. The hotel has only about 65 rooms and suites, making it intimate rather than sprawling. 
Accommodation & Experience
Rooms begin at roughly 450 sq ft, offering generous space for a city-centre luxury hotel.  Many rooms overlook the garden courtyard, and some include terraces with views of Hagia Sophia or the Sea of Marmara. Interiors feature warm tones, classic Turkish design accents, and large windows to capture light and city views. 
Dining, Wellness & Facilities
• Dining: The hotel’s main restaurant is set in a glass-pavilion courtyard (Avlu Restaurant), while the rooftop lounge offers panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline and historic domes. 
• Wellness: Though compact, the hotel offers spa and wellness services appropriate to its boutique size. 
• Services: The hotel provides complimentary WiFi, multilingual concierge services, dedicated children’s programme, and event/wedding facilities. 
Why Stay Here
• Unbeatable historic location: You’re in the heart of Istanbul’s ancient quarter, within walking distance to major landmarks.
• Boutique size & refined feel: With only ~65 rooms, the experience is more personalised and intimate compared to large city hotels.
• Architectural uniqueness: Staying in a former jail-turned-luxury hotel adds a narrative dimension to your stay.
• Luxury style in a city context: Ideal for culture-hungry travellers who want top-tier service without sacrificing walkability or authenticity.
If your trip to Istanbul is focused on history, city immersion and a luxury base to return to each night, the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet is a standout choice.
Location & Ambience
The property is deeply embedded in Istanbul’s historic peninsula, making it especially convenient for visitors looking to explore the city’s rich past. From the hotel, you can walk to major attractions such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Basilica Cistern.  The setting brings calm despite the hustle of the city, thanks to the quiet courtyard garden and premium service.
Architecture & Character
What sets this hotel apart is its building’s story: once a prison (the former Sultanahmet Jail) and now beautifully restored into a luxury stay.  The architectural style retains neoclassical details—arched windows, ornate stonework—while interiors have been refined to deliver modern luxury. The hotel has only about 65 rooms and suites, making it intimate rather than sprawling. 
Accommodation & Experience
Rooms begin at roughly 450 sq ft, offering generous space for a city-centre luxury hotel.  Many rooms overlook the garden courtyard, and some include terraces with views of Hagia Sophia or the Sea of Marmara. Interiors feature warm tones, classic Turkish design accents, and large windows to capture light and city views. 
Dining, Wellness & Facilities
• Dining: The hotel’s main restaurant is set in a glass-pavilion courtyard (Avlu Restaurant), while the rooftop lounge offers panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline and historic domes. 
• Wellness: Though compact, the hotel offers spa and wellness services appropriate to its boutique size. 
• Services: The hotel provides complimentary WiFi, multilingual concierge services, dedicated children’s programme, and event/wedding facilities. 
Why Stay Here
• Unbeatable historic location: You’re in the heart of Istanbul’s ancient quarter, within walking distance to major landmarks.
• Boutique size & refined feel: With only ~65 rooms, the experience is more personalised and intimate compared to large city hotels.
• Architectural uniqueness: Staying in a former jail-turned-luxury hotel adds a narrative dimension to your stay.
• Luxury style in a city context: Ideal for culture-hungry travellers who want top-tier service without sacrificing walkability or authenticity.
If your trip to Istanbul is focused on history, city immersion and a luxury base to return to each night, the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet is a standout choice.