Celal Sultan Hotel Special Class

Celal Sultan Hotel Special Class Overview

First Impressions

Walking into Celal Sultan Hotel Special Class, you immediately feel like you’ve stumbled onto something special in the heart of Sultanahmet. This four-star boutique property sits on a quiet side street just steps from some of Istanbul‘s most iconic sights, and honestly — the location alone makes it worth considering. The building itself has that classic Ottoman charm you’d hope for, but with modern touches that actually work rather than feeling forced.

Location & Neighborhood

You know what really impressed me? You can literally walk to the Basilica Cistern in about two minutes — I mean, it’s practically next door on Yerebatan Caddesi. The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are maybe a five-minute stroll, which means you can easily duck back to your room between sightseeing sessions. But here’s the thing couples seem to love most (and I get why they rate it 9.5) — once you turn onto Salkimsogut Sokak, the tourist crowds just melt away. It’s this perfect balance of being right in the action but still having a peaceful retreat.

The Rooms

The rooms have character without being overly themed, if that makes sense. Mine had traditional Turkish carpets and wooden details, but also reliable WiFi and a proper shower — sometimes that combination is harder to find than you’d think in Sultanahmet’s older buildings. The windows actually open (not always a given), and if you’re lucky enough to get one of the upper floors, you might catch glimpses of the Marmara Sea between the rooftops. Air conditioning works well too, which you’ll definitely appreciate during Istanbul’s humid summers.

Breakfast Experience

Breakfast here is genuinely impressive — they’ve got this buffet setup that covers way more dietary needs than most places bother with. Continental basics, sure, but also proper vegetarian options, halal selections, and even gluten-free items that don’t feel like an afterthought. The Turkish breakfast items are what really shine though — fresh cheeses, olives, honey, and bread that’s actually baked fresh. I actually found myself getting up earlier just to spend more time over breakfast, which isn’t usually my style.

Why Guests Love It

What keeps people coming back (and rating this place 8.7 overall) is how it manages to feel both authentic and comfortable. The staff genuinely knows the neighborhood — they’ll point you toward the less touristy restaurant around the corner or tell you the best time to visit the nearby attractions without crowds. There’s no pretense here, just solid hospitality in a building that’s clearly been cared for. Plus, having such easy access to major sights while staying somewhere that feels like a local secret rather than a tourist factory? That’s honestly the sweet spot for exploring Istanbul’s historic peninsula.

Apartments in Istanbul suit remote workers with high ceilings, marble courtyards, and fast ferry access between continents.

Celal Sultan Hotel Special Class Accommodations

Reviews of Celal Sultan Hotel Special Class

• Samer from Canada (9/10)

  the location was very good and the staff were amazing.

• Tayyab from Pakistan (9/10)

  Nice hotel nice location

• Stanimira from Bulgaria (9/10)

  One of the best things in this hotel is the location. It is super clean, the parking is right infront of the hotel (15euro per day). The breakfast was fantastic. It is really warm, because our trip was in january. The terrace on the top of the hotel is perfect for coffee, or just enjoying beautiful Istanbul. Cant wait to come back again.

• Zaahida from South Africa (8/10)

  Close to major spots

• Katherine from United Kingdom (9/10)

  We came to Istanbul for Christmas and unfortunately weather was disappointing. Normally this could have been a disaster but for our comfortable and welcoming accommodation, plus all staff, with no exception, it was an amazing holiday experience. Comfort second to none, it felt like home and we can't wait to return.
  Our heartfelt thanks to Kerem and his staff especially Mr Farhi and Yildiz. We will return

• Kerry from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Close to Blue Mosque and main sights. Clean and staff efficient. Breakfast was ok, limited choice and didn’t vary at all, but plenty there. Breakfast staff were excellent and hard working. Bed comfortable

• Charlotte from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Great location. Not far from the markets and Blue Mosque. Lots on the doorstep. Walked across the river in 25 mins or you can get a tram not far from the hotel.

• Ashiq from United Arab Emirates (8/10)

  The location and the view in room 315 was the best

• Tanveer from Saudi Arabia (9/10)

  Fantastic hotel, comfortable bed and clean Room. Although the room was small but it was super nice, clean and comfortable. Probably this was the best hotel I stayed in my 9 day trip across Turkiye. Location is perfect, close to Tram and all the main attractions are at walking distance.

• Monika from Poland (9/10)

  helpful and friendly staff, very good breakfast, awesome location close to the main historic sites, very safe area, recommended by all means!

Surroundings

Facilities