The Hotel Guru
Best Hotels for the Grand Bazaar

Best Hotels for the Grand Bazaar

Don't go to Istanbul's Grand Bazaar if you're short of time. It's a place to be treasured and fully savoured; a place to get lost in. Countless crowds of people swarm the grand, historic covered market every day, immersing themselves in the labyrinth of stalls and sections, the sounds of many languages, the smells of spices and the sight of merchants haggling over their wares: Turkish rugs, porcelain, handicrafts and so much more. Until 150 years ago, it was the unrivalled epicentre of global trade, the great artery connecting the East and West, and while much has changed since then, it remains like something out of Arabian Nights. If you plan to stay as near as possible, we have discovered a couple of contrasting hotels (one oozing traditional elegance, the other for modern design fans) close to the Grand Bazar, both a short walk away.

For a contemporary city base

Award-winning boutique property, Fer Hotel, is only a short walk from the Grand Bazaar, making it a great option if you want to really explore the world-famous market. Sleek, minimalist and bright throughout, this contemporary hotel makes for a cool and contemporary city base. The enormous buffet breakfast every morning will fill you up for a long day at the vibrant market, and the delicious Turkish cuisine and wide array of drinks in the Roofer Restaurant will provide a relaxing end to a hectic day.

For a taste of the Old East

When you enter Ajwa Hotel, you'd be forgiven for thinking you'd actually entered the Sultan's palace. This luxury five-star seems to be the living manifestation of the Silk Road that created the nearby Grand Bazaar. The rooms are richly decorated in whirling geometric patterns, silk carpets, and handcrafted wood furnishings with mother-of-pearl details. You can also expect Ottoman-style sofas, carefully curated works from renowned Azerbaijani artists, and hand-painted tiled bathrooms. Utterly enchanting.

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Fer Hotel Istanbul (Grand Bazaar) 56 rooms from AU$293

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Local exploring  -  Ideally located in the heart of the city with easy access to all the main attractions.
Local markets  -  Explore the bustling alleyways of the Grand Bazaar.
Sights nearby  -  Visit the famous Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
Restaurant  -  Recommended.
Recommended by  -  Tablet

A chic contemporary hotel in the heart of the city. Architecturally impressive throughout, especially in the large central lobby. Rooms are smart and minimalist with floor to ceiling windows offering fabulous views. A sleek base to return to after a day spent exploring. See More

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Ajwa Hotel Istanbul (Sultanahmet) 61 rooms from AU$421

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Local exploring  -  A luxury hotel in the heart of the city, an ideal base for city exploring.
Sights nearby  -  Visit the city's major sights: Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern and the Topkapı Palace.
Sailing  -  Take a Bosphorus tour and admire the city from the sea.
Local markets  -  Wander through the narrow lanes of the Grand Bazaar.

A five star hotel, in the heart of the old city, championing classic Ottoman style. Luxurious rooms feature rich hues, dark antique furniture and ornate geometric patterns. Naturally there's all the mod cons too. A panoramic restaurant serves Azerbaijani cuisine and there's a indulgent spa as well. See More

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