Sirkeci Mansion

Sirkeci Mansion is a mid-range hotel on Taya Hatun Sokak, a quiet street in Sirkeci beside Gülhane Park. Its location is a strong selling point: the hotel lists the Istanbul Archaeology Museums at around 280 metres, Topkapı Palace at about 450 metres, Hagia Sophia at about 500 metres and the Basilica Cistern at about 600 metres, so most of the old city's major sights are within a ten-minute walk, while the hotel sits slightly apart from the busiest streets of Sultanahmet.

Room types run from standard singles, doubles, triples and quadruples to connected rooms, Deluxe and Superior rooms, and a disability-accessible room, which makes it a practical choice for families and groups. Breakfast is a Turkish-style spread, and the hotel has a spa, with special offers on longer stays. It belongs to a small group that also runs the Neyzade restaurant.

What sets the hotel apart is its weekly programme of activities for guests. On Mondays there is a food walk around Sirkeci, on Wednesdays a walking tour through Fatih, Fener and the Golden Horn that ends with a boat back, on Fridays a Turkish cooking session with the hotel's chef, and on Saturdays a walk through the old trading hans and markets. Ask at reception for details and to sign up, as places may be limited.

The hotel suits families, first-time visitors and travellers who appreciate a friendly, well-organised base with a personal touch. Book directly through the hotel's website to see current packages and spa deals, and check what is included in your rate. The hotel can also help arrange transfers and plan your days in the old city. Arriving by Marmaray, the suburban rail line that tunnels under the Bosphorus, is another option, as Sirkeci station is only a short walk away.

Gülhane tram stop on the T1 line is a few minutes away, with direct trams to Sultanahmet, the Grand Bazaar, Eminönü and Karaköy, and Sirkeci Marmaray station is nearby for the suburban rail line under the Bosphorus. The Spice Bazaar is around 750 metres away, the Hodjapasha Culture Centre is a short walk for the whirling dervish ceremony, and the Eminönü ferry piers are close by for Bosphorus trips.