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88 USD
Arena Hotel - Special Class in Istanbul
🌍 Turkey, Istanbul, Kucukayasofya Mah., Sehit Mehmet Pasa yokusu
● Center: 730 m
🌞 Sea - 5 min
✅ Multiple guests praised the staff for exceptional service, describing them as 'very cooperative and helpful' and 'incredibly welcoming'. ✅ The breakfast received frequent compliments for its variety and quality, described as 'very good with lots of choice' and 'delicious and varied'. ✅ The hotel's location was often highlighted as 'perfect' or 'amazing', within minutes walking distance to major attractions like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. ✅ Complimentary room upgrades and personalized guest attention were noted, including hosts carrying luggage and arranging discounts. ✅ Cleanliness and room comfort were rated highly, with some guests enjoying sea view rooms that were 'extremely clean' and 'newly renovated'. ❌ Some guests reported issues with reception service during night shifts, including missed taxi arrangements and unhelpful staff responses. ❌ A few reviewers mentioned noise problems, such as persistent sounds from machinery in basement rooms and noisy bathroom fans combined with lighting. ❌ There was one serious complaint about a missed wake-up call causing a guest to miss their flight, alongside concerns over staff responsibility. ❌ Power outages occurred a few times during stays, which slightly affected guest experience. ❌ One guest noted cleanliness concerns with visible dust and minor stains, as well as an unresolved missing item incident.
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Rooms and prices
2 guests
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Economy Double room
Air conditioning, minibar and shower
Beds:
94 USD
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Comfort Double room
Wireless internet, air conditioning and minibar
Beds:
96 USD
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Double Suite
Wireless internet, air conditioning and minibar
Beds:
126 USD
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Superior Double room with sea view
Air conditioning and private bathroom
Beds:
137 USD
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Classic Double room
Wireless internet, air conditioning and minibar
Beds:
140 USD
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3 x
Imperial Triple Suite
Private bathroom
Beds:
168 USD
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4 x
Family Quadruple room
Private bathroom
Beds:
188 USD
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Deluxe Double room with sea view
Private bathroom
Beds:
204 USD
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3 x
Corner Triple room
Wireless internet, air conditioning and minibar
Beds:
265 USD
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Description
Arena Hotel - Special Class is a four-star property established in 1995 and renovated in 2012, located in Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district. The hotel features 27 rooms across one building, offering room types from Economy Double to Imperial Triple Suite. It provides a range of services including free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, 24-hour front desk, currency exchange, and on-site dining with a restaurant and café-bar. Wellness amenities include a spa area with Turkish bath, sauna, massage, and a hydromassage tub. The hotel maintains a warm, homely atmosphere inside a building that reflects 19th-century architecture. Families can benefit from babysitting services, and business travelers have access to conference and banquet facilities. The hotel accepts major credit cards and operates check-in from 14:00 and check-out until 12:00. Parking is available for a fee, and laundry services are offered at an additional cost.
Location
Arena Hotel is situated just a 2-minute walk from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, two of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. It lies 316 meters from the sea and 13 km from Istanbul Atatürk Airport. Guests can easily reach Mehmet Efendi Fountain, only 155 meters away, a notable Ottoman-era water structure. Nearby dining options include Cafe Hotel Alzer, 185 meters away with excellent guest reviews, Mavi Onur Guesthouse at 203 meters, and Olive Istanbul restaurant 294 meters from the hotel. The location is convenient for exploring the historic city center with good access to public transportation including metro and tram lines.
Tips
- Book your taxi in advance with the day receptionist to avoid confusion at night.
- If sensitive to noise, request a room away from basement areas or machinery.
- For walking, bring comfortable shoes with thick soles due to cobblestone streets nearby.
Policies and conditions
- Child policies: Children can stay in some rooms of this hotel. Additional fees may be charged for children using existing beds. Add the number of children to get a more accurate price.
- Cribs and Extra Beds: Extra bed and crib policies may vary according to room type. Please refer to the room type details for more information.
- Breakfast: Western [Mon - Sun] 07:30-10:00 Open Additional breakfast fees are not included in the total and need to be paid at the property.
- Pets: Pets are not allowed
- Service animals: Service animals are not allowed
- Age Requirements: The main guest checking in must be at least 18 years old
- Paying at the hotel: JSB, MasterCard, AmericanExpress, Visa, UnionPay
- Check in time: 14:00. Check out time: 12:00.
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Services and facilities
General
- Air conditioning
- 24-hour reception
- Elevator/lift
- Currency exchange
- Smoke-free property
- Heating
- Security guard
- Ticket assistance
- Express check-in/check-out
- Garden
- Television in lobby
- Private check-in/check-out
- Fire Extinguisher
- Upper floors accessible by elevator
Rooms
- Bridal suite
- Non-smoking rooms
- Soundproof rooms
- Room service
- Family room
- VIP room amenities
- Cable TV
- TV
- Minibar
- Hairdryer
- Shower/Bathtub
- Bathtub
- Shower
- Wardrobe/Closet
- Bathrobe
- Linens
- Toiletries
Accessibility
- Accessibility features
Services and amenities
- Ironing
- Luggage storage
- Laundry
- Safe-deposit box
- Concierge services
- Dry-cleaning
- Shoe shine
- Luggage storage
- Wake-up service
- Telephone
Meals
- Bar
- Diet menu (on request)
- Breakfast
- Breakfast in the room
- Restaurant
- Snack bar
- Kitchen
- Bottled water (at extra charge)
- Kettle
Internet
- Free Wi-Fi
- Internet
Transfer
- Area shuttle
- Car rental
- Airport transportation
- Transfer services
Languages Spoken
- German
- Russian
- English
- French
- Multi-language staff
- Turkish
Tourist services
- Tour assistance
Recreation
- Library
- Bike rental
Parking
- Offsite parking reservations required
- Parking nearby
Pool and beach
- Beach shuttle
- Beach/pool towels
Business
- Business center
- Event facilities
- Fax and copy machine
- Meeting and presentation facilities
- Conference Hall
Beauty and wellness
- Doctor
- Massage
- Beauty services
- Sauna
- Spa
- First Aid Kit
Kids
- Playroom
- Babysitting and childcare
- Family/Kid Friendly
- Kids' TV Networks
The distance to the sea is 320 meters
Hotel view
Google panorama
Video: Arena Hotel - Special Class Istanbul Review - Should You Stay At This Hotel?
Map
Reviews
13.01.2026
Amazing service staff were very cooperative and helpful. Really enjoyed our stay. Breakfast was very good with lots of choice. Location is perfect Hagia Sophia is only few minutes walk and there are lots of restaurants nearby. Will definitely stay again.
04.01.2026
Incredible stay with the kindest host!
This boutique hotel was such a special experience. The host was incredibly welcoming and genuinely cared about making our stay perfect. He even upgraded my room complimentary so I could be on the same floor as my friends, which was such a kind gesture. He provided us with detailed maps, carried our bags himself, and went out of his way to recommend great local services — even arranging discounts for us! The atmosphere is cozy, artistic, and full of character, and you can really feel the personal touch in everything. I couldn’t recommend this hotel enough — it’s a true hidden gem in Istanbul! 🌿✨
This boutique hotel was such a special experience. The host was incredibly welcoming and genuinely cared about making our stay perfect. He even upgraded my room complimentary so I could be on the same floor as my friends, which was such a kind gesture. He provided us with detailed maps, carried our bags himself, and went out of his way to recommend great local services — even arranging discounts for us! The atmosphere is cozy, artistic, and full of character, and you can really feel the personal touch in everything. I couldn’t recommend this hotel enough — it’s a true hidden gem in Istanbul! 🌿✨
23.12.2025
We stayed at the Arena Hotel Special Class in Istanbul and everything was perfect. The service was excellent, the breakfast was delicious and varied, and the price was very reasonable for the quality offered. The location is amazing—close to major attractions and very convenient for exploring the city. We truly enjoyed our stay and would definitely recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Istanbul.
09.11.2025
Dear Director,
On my way back from Cairo, I made a stop at your establishment before returning to France. I found your hotel charming and your staff attentive, which left me with a very good first impression.
Unfortunately, I fell ill during my stay. I informed your team by email about my condition and my need for a taxi to the airport, specifying my flight schedule. Last night, between 6 and 7 p.m., I went to the reception in a state of great weakness, almost fainting. A member of your staff kindly offered me a glass of water and helped me back to my room. Shortly after, someone even called to offer me some fruit — a gesture for which I am sincerely grateful.
Before resting, I insisted that I not be forgotten for my airport departure. Unfortunately, no one came to wake me up as promised. When I finally woke up, I was horrified to realize that I had missed my flight — my minor daughter was waiting for me in France, and my ticket was non-refundable.
Although deeply upset, I was not angry at first, as your staff had seemed kind and attentive until then. However, when I contacted the reception to explain what had happened, I was shocked by the sudden change in tone and attitude. No one seemed aware of the situation, and the team refused to take any responsibility.
I then realized that what I had taken for genuine kindness was, in fact, nothing but business. No integrity, no loyalty — “a team of tips men.” This is how a sick woman is welcomed in your country, a reflection of a clientelist policy devoid of scruples and humanity.
Yours sincerely,
On my way back from Cairo, I made a stop at your establishment before returning to France. I found your hotel charming and your staff attentive, which left me with a very good first impression.
Unfortunately, I fell ill during my stay. I informed your team by email about my condition and my need for a taxi to the airport, specifying my flight schedule. Last night, between 6 and 7 p.m., I went to the reception in a state of great weakness, almost fainting. A member of your staff kindly offered me a glass of water and helped me back to my room. Shortly after, someone even called to offer me some fruit — a gesture for which I am sincerely grateful.
Before resting, I insisted that I not be forgotten for my airport departure. Unfortunately, no one came to wake me up as promised. When I finally woke up, I was horrified to realize that I had missed my flight — my minor daughter was waiting for me in France, and my ticket was non-refundable.
Although deeply upset, I was not angry at first, as your staff had seemed kind and attentive until then. However, when I contacted the reception to explain what had happened, I was shocked by the sudden change in tone and attitude. No one seemed aware of the situation, and the team refused to take any responsibility.
I then realized that what I had taken for genuine kindness was, in fact, nothing but business. No integrity, no loyalty — “a team of tips men.” This is how a sick woman is welcomed in your country, a reflection of a clientelist policy devoid of scruples and humanity.
Yours sincerely,
04.11.2025
Our stay at the hotel was a 10 out of 10… until our last day.
On our final night, we booked a taxi for the morning with the day receptionist, Suat— he was excellent, very friendly, and super helpful, THANKS FOR EVERYTHING.
However, the night receptionist was kinda rude.
This morning at 6:50 am we came down to reception, and he had no clue about our taxi reservation. He didn’t care whether we had a taxi or not. I told him we had already paid, and he simply refunded the money without even apologising or offering any explanation.
This was especially disappointing because we had been clearly told the taxi for the morning was confirmed.
We had to get an uber and we almost missed our flight. Then the driver wanted us to pay more money in cash instead of the app and got kind of aggressive until we said he should speak with Uber.
To the night Clerck: If you don’t know how to provide a proper service perhaps is best if you look for another occupation.
On our final night, we booked a taxi for the morning with the day receptionist, Suat— he was excellent, very friendly, and super helpful, THANKS FOR EVERYTHING.
However, the night receptionist was kinda rude.
This morning at 6:50 am we came down to reception, and he had no clue about our taxi reservation. He didn’t care whether we had a taxi or not. I told him we had already paid, and he simply refunded the money without even apologising or offering any explanation.
This was especially disappointing because we had been clearly told the taxi for the morning was confirmed.
We had to get an uber and we almost missed our flight. Then the driver wanted us to pay more money in cash instead of the app and got kind of aggressive until we said he should speak with Uber.
To the night Clerck: If you don’t know how to provide a proper service perhaps is best if you look for another occupation.
19.10.2025
Power went out a couple times. Minor issues with breakfast. But generally a nice location with a nice room and good location. Very friendly staff too!
08.10.2025
Wonderful stay at Arena Hotel!
We had such a lovely experience at this hotel. The staff were incredibly kind, polite, and helpful – they truly made us feel welcome from the very first moment.
The location is excellent: peaceful and quiet, yet just a short walk from the Blue Mosque and other main sights. It’s also very well connected by public transport (metro and tram).
The breakfast was delicious and varied, with plenty of options to choose from. When we arrived late in the evening, the staff kindly provided us with bottles of water – such a thoughtful touch.
There are also several great restaurants nearby.
We would definitely stay here again – highly recommended!
We had such a lovely experience at this hotel. The staff were incredibly kind, polite, and helpful – they truly made us feel welcome from the very first moment.
The location is excellent: peaceful and quiet, yet just a short walk from the Blue Mosque and other main sights. It’s also very well connected by public transport (metro and tram).
The breakfast was delicious and varied, with plenty of options to choose from. When we arrived late in the evening, the staff kindly provided us with bottles of water – such a thoughtful touch.
There are also several great restaurants nearby.
We would definitely stay here again – highly recommended!
05.10.2025
I had a lovely time at this hotel. However, my room was in the basement and there was a consistent sound from machinery - possibly air conditioning units or something similar, making it difficult to get to sleep. I would have preferred a room with a better view and more quiet.
01.10.2025
Great location. Gave us a great ride to airport. Dont like bathroom light & fan go on together. Noisy. A/C was good.
18.09.2025
Location couldn't be better, room always kept clean, AC didnt work in first room so got upgraded to a better room. Staff spoke good english and always friendly. Well stocked buffet breakfast.
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Think about what you would like to know if you were looking for a review about a place to relax. Please describe in detail what you liked and what you didn't. What would you advise to other guests and to the hotel owner. The more fully you tell about the hotel, the easier it will be for other people to make a choice and they will be very grateful to you!
POIs near hotel
Mehmet Efendi Fountain (2 min)
Ottoman-era public fountain representing traditional Islamic water architecture.
Tickets: Istanbul: Sand-Brewed Turkish Coffee Workshop in Sultanahmet, 9 EUR View
Serpent Column (4 min)
Ancient Greek bronze column from Delphi, relocated to Istanbul by Constantine I, featuring intertwined serpent heads.
Tickets: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia: Guided Tour, 56 EUR View
Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum (4 min)
Displays Ottoman carpets, calligraphy, ceramics, and manuscripts spanning Islamic art history.
Tickets: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia: Guided Tour, 56 EUR View
Cistern of Philoxenos (6 min)
Byzantine-era underground water cistern with 16 columns, providing water supply to medieval Istanbul.
Tickets: Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony: Entry Ticket, 20 EUR View
TGC Press Media Museum (7 min)
Museum chronicling Turkish printing and media history through artifacts and exhibitions on journalism.
Tickets: Cemberlitas Hammam Istanbul: Historical Bath Experience, 90 EUR View
Cafe and Restaurants near hotel
Cafe «Hotel Alzer» (3 min)
Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd No:72, 34122 Sultanahmet/Fatih/Fatih/İstanbul
Reviews18.05.2025
I had an absolutely wonderful experience at this hotel. From the moment I arrived, the staff went above and beyond to make me feel welcome. The service was impeccable, the rooms were spotless and beautifully decorated, and every detail was thoughtfully taken care of.
The location was perfect, the amenities were top-notch, and the overall atmosphere was both relaxing and luxurious. I can confidently say this was one of the best hotel stays I’ve ever had. Highly recommended – I will definitely be coming back!
The location was perfect, the amenities were top-notch, and the overall atmosphere was both relaxing and luxurious. I can confidently say this was one of the best hotel stays I’ve ever had. Highly recommended – I will definitely be coming back!
12.05.2025
I stayed at this hotel with my father for 7 days. The location is impeccable. We stayed in one of the rooms facing the hippodrome and it was really worth it. The breakfast was also very good and varied and the view was just wonderful. But the best part of this hotel was its kind, professional and friendly staff. Everyone, from the ladies who prepared breakfast, to the house keepers, to the receptionists, were all extremely warm and friendly. Mr. Mesut, the manager was incredibly helpful and gave us a lot of good guidance on what to do and see. He was really polite, kind nad professional. I can't say enough about how welcome him and his team made us feel. Next time we are in Istanbul, we will do our best to book a room with them again. 5 stars.
20.03.2025
small and nice hotel very central, easy to get around in every part of the city. the staff is polite and kind I was in Istanbul for work and a bit of vacation I managed to do both without problems. they recommended me a place not very touristy and very Turkish and I was able to play a bit.. thank
you very much next time
you very much next time
01.03.2025
Very safe hotel , with a great location, i was very comfortable living in it because its beside a police station.
Negatives :
- elevator is too small , it can take 3 maximum without the bags
- breakfast is not varied, repeated , everyday the same food, with a very very small changes
- food is too expensive, i bought a Sandwich for 600TL
Positives :
- Ali is a great guy , helped me a lot , i hope for him a good day
- staff is very cooperative and friendly thanks to them
- the hotel takes the customer reviews seriously
Best 7 days in Istanbul, thanks to 1207 hotel.
Negatives :
- elevator is too small , it can take 3 maximum without the bags
- breakfast is not varied, repeated , everyday the same food, with a very very small changes
- food is too expensive, i bought a Sandwich for 600TL
Positives :
- Ali is a great guy , helped me a lot , i hope for him a good day
- staff is very cooperative and friendly thanks to them
- the hotel takes the customer reviews seriously
Best 7 days in Istanbul, thanks to 1207 hotel.
16.02.2025
What can I say about this hotel, pure hospitality and a must stay when your in Istanbul. Take it from me the service is special especially Mehmut and Sena who always greet you and take care of you whenever you need. Sena especially well done! The breakfast is fresh whenever you need no matter what time you get up. If you need a top up a fresh portion it will be made for you.
Cafe «Mavi Onur Guesthouse» (3 min)
Küçük Ayasofya Mh., Küçük Ayasofya Cd. No:22, 34122
Restaurant «Olive Istanbul» (4 min)
Küçük Ayasofya Mh., 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
Frequently asked questions about Arena Hotel - Special Class
How close is Arena Hotel - Special Class to Istanbul’s main historic attractions?
The hotel is located just a 2-minute walk from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, making it very convenient for exploring the historic Sultanahmet area.
What types of rooms are available at this hotel?
Room types include Economy Double room, Comfort Double room, Superior Double room with sea view, Deluxe Double room with sea view, Corner Triple room, Family Quadruple room, Classic Double room, Double Suite, and Imperial Triple Suite.
Does the hotel provide wellness facilities?
Yes, Arena Hotel has a spa and wellness centre with offerings such as Turkish/steam bath, sauna, massage services, and a hydromassage tub.
Are pets allowed at the Arena Hotel - Special Class?
No, pets and service animals are not allowed at this hotel.
Is parking available at the hotel?
Yes, parking is available for a fee.
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Hotel prices for: June - July 2026 calendar
The average hotel price this month is 85 USD The best time to book is June 17, with rates starting from 66 USD
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