The Byzantium Suites Hotel & Spa

The Byzantium Suites Hotel & Spa Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to The Byzantium Suites Hotel & Spa on Akbiyik Street, you immediately get that “this is exactly where I want to be” feeling. The building itself has this beautiful Ottoman-inspired facade that doesn’t try too hard — it just fits perfectly into the historic Sultanahmet neighborhood. I mean, you’re literally steps away from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, which honestly never gets old no matter how many times you’ve seen the photos.

Location & Neighborhood

The location is what really sets this place apart — and I’m not just saying that because everyone mentions it. You know how some hotels claim to be “centrally located” but you still need a taxi to get anywhere interesting? Well, this four-star hotel is actually in the heart of everything that matters in Istanbul. The Cankurtaran area is this perfect sweet spot where you can walk to all the major sights, but you’re not dealing with the chaos of the main tourist drags. Plus, there are these little local cafes and shops tucked into the side streets that you’ll stumble upon just wandering around.

The Rooms

The suites here are thoughtfully designed — not flashy, but everything feels intentional. Each room has this nice blend of modern comfort with subtle nods to Byzantine design elements. The bathrooms are particularly well done, and honestly, after a long day of walking around the city’s hills, you’ll appreciate having a proper space to unwind. The views vary depending on which side you’re on, but even the courtyard-facing rooms have this peaceful quality that’s hard to find in such a central location.

Amenities & Dining

The spa is smaller than what you might find at a resort, but it’s perfectly adequate for unwinding after exploring the city. What I really appreciated was the breakfast setup — they do both continental and buffet options, which gives you flexibility depending on whether you’re rushing out to beat the crowds at Topkapi Palace or taking a leisurely morning. The restaurant serves decent Turkish and international dishes, though with so many incredible local spots within walking distance, you might find yourself eating out more often than not.

Why Guests Love It

Here’s the thing that really matters — couples absolutely love this place, and after staying here, I totally get why they rate the location so highly. There’s something romantic about being able to walk hand-in-hand through these ancient streets and then come back to a comfortable, well-appointed hotel that feels like a proper retreat. The staff genuinely seems to care about making your stay work, and they’re full of good recommendations for everything from where to get the best Turkish coffee to which ferry route gives you the best Bosphorus views. It’s not trying to be the fanciest hotel in Istanbul, but it nails what most travelers actually want — comfort, location, and that feeling that you’ve chosen well.

Seasoned travelers reserve a hotel in Istanbul before film festivals light up Beyoğlu cinemas with premieres.

The Byzantium Suites Hotel & Spa Accommodations

Reviews of The Byzantium Suites Hotel & Spa

• Vicky from Greece (9/10)

  If you visit Istanbul you must stay here!!
  
  1) super convenient location next to the main touristic sites such as the blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia grand Mosque
  
  2) next to the T1 line to move along
  
  3) the most helpful and kind personnel, always happy to help and give instructions,
  
  4) breakfast is way and beyond
  
  5)special thanks to each and everyone from the hotel stuff but mostly to Ahmet and Erhan ♥️
  
  Thank you !

• Sarsenova from Kazakhstan (9/10)

  We really enjoyed our stay at the hotel. The staff was really helpful and the breakfast was very tasty. Erhan was very helpful and kind. The cleanliness of the hotel was good and it was located very close to The Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sofia, and the Topkapı, they were 10 minutes away. Overall we enjoyed our stay and are looking forward to staying there the next time we come to Istanbul.

• A from Thailand (9/10)

  Excellent location nearby everything was at a walking distance. Staf was well conversent and ready to help

• Ana from Romania (8/10)

  the breakfast was very good, very attentive staff

• Amanie from France (9/10)

  The hotel's location was excellent, the staff was very friendly, and the breakfast was delicious and diverse.

• Christine from United States (9/10)

  The staff was very kind and helpful. There was a great breakfast buffet every morning. The room was nice and warm. The hotel is located near the blue mosque and Hagia Sofia.

• Lloyd from United States (9/10)

  The rooms were comfortable and clean. Beautiful decoration and interesting, unique structure to the building and layout. Breakfast buffet was fantastic. Erhan the host was gracious and the staff were helpful in providing refills. The front desk also reserved me a ticket at the sold out Whirling Dervish/Traditional Turkish Dancing show which was outstanding. Easy walking distance to every with wonderful shops and restaurants just a step away. Highly recommended!

• Mohammed from Oman (9/10)

  Hotel provided a free upgrade and allowed us to check in earlier. Big thanks to the Hotel staff, specially the staff at the reception. Great place.

• Jennifer from United States (9/10)

  Breakfast had a wide variety of options which was great! Erhan greeted us warmly and always checked in that we had everything we needed for breakfast.
  Reception was also very attentive and helped us with whatever we needed eg. Transport, room service, suggestions for activities etc.

• Rezaei from Germany (8/10)

  Staff, specially the front desk and breakfast team, all were excellent

Surroundings

Facilities