Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci

Few hotels put you this close to the everyday life of old Istanbul. Mest stands beside the Spice Bazaar, with the New Mosque, the Eminönü ferry piers and the Galata Bridge moments away. The surrounding lanes are packed with spice sellers, coffee roasters, and busy lokantas, and the İznik-Tiled Rüstem Paşa Mosque is a short walk away. Sultanahmet and the Grand Bazaar are an easy walk away.

Built in 1880, the building has been sensitively adapted without losing its historic character. Exposed brick and arches sit comfortably alongside contemporary furnishings, and a tall central gallery draws daylight down through the heart of the hotel.

Rooms combine contemporary comfort with touches of the building's history. Selected categories add balconies, city views, or sea views, and families have several useful options, including dedicated Family Rooms and larger accommodations that sleep four. Good soundproofing keeps the busy streets at bay.

Breakfast is served on the rooftop terrace, overlooking the New Mosque, the Golden Horn, and the old city rooftops. It is one of the great pleasures of staying here, and the terrace stays open through the day for tea and coffee with the same view.