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51 USD
Dara Old City Hotel in Istanbul
🌍 Istanbul, Küçük Ayasofya, Su Terazisi Sk. No: 25, Fatih
● Center: 720 m
🌞 Sea - 5 min
✅ Friendly and helpful staff, especially receptionist Shakhzod ✅ Excellent location close to Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia ✅ Clean rooms with some guests describing them as spacious ✅ Breakfast buffet with local and continental options served on rooftop terrace ✅ Smooth check-in and check-out process ✅ Free Wi-Fi available throughout the hotel ❌ Many guests reported very small and outdated rooms with peeling wallpaper ❌ Some rooms had problematic toilets and broken shower hoses ❌ Rooftop terrace was frequently closed despite being advertised ❌ Noisy environment due to external air conditioning units and poor soundproofing ❌ Irregular housekeeping service with some guests not having rooms cleaned properly ❌ Complaints about rude or unhelpful management and inconsistent service ❌ Difficult access due to steep hill location and narrow streets ❌ Breakfast supply issues late in serving hours and limited variety at times
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Rooms and prices
2 guests
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4 x + 3 x
Family Suite
Air conditioning, bath and toilet
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Agoda
4 x + 30 sq.m.
Family Room
Air conditioning, minibar and toilet
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Agoda
+ 18 sq.m.
Standard Double Or Twin Room
Air conditioning, minibar and shower
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Agoda
4 x + 3 x 30 sq.m.
Standard Quadruple Room
Air conditioning, minibar and shower
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Agoda
3 x + 21 sq.m.
Standard Triple Room
Air conditioning, minibar and shower
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Agoda
Description
Dara Old City Hotel is a three-star hotel built in 2008 and renovated in 2010, featuring 33 rooms that range from Standard Double or Twin Rooms to Family Suites. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi and paid parking, alongside a restaurant and luggage storage facilities. Guests appreciate the excellent service, with some reviews highlighting friendly and professional staff members like the receptionist Shakhzod. Rooms are described as clean and spacious by some visitors, though others mention they can be very small and in need of maintenance. Breakfast is served as a buffet on a rooftop terrace, which offers panoramic views of Istanbul, although access to the terrace has been inconsistent. The hotel accepts major credit cards such as American Express, Visa, and Mastercard, but does not allow pets or service animals. Check-in begins at 14:00 and check-out is by noon. Overall, it is a budget option located in the historic Sultanahmet area with some mixed feedback on room quality and amenities.
Location
Located in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul, Dara Old City Hotel stands at Su Terazisi Sk. No: 25, Fatih. It is just 200 meters from the railway station, about 2 kilometers from the main bus station and port, and approximately 13 kilometers from Istanbul Atatürk Airport. The hotel is within a four-minute walk to major landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Nearby you will find the Mehmet Efendi Fountain only 166 meters away, as well as local dining options such as Cafe «Hotel Alzer» (175 m), Cafe «Mavi Onur Guesthouse» (210 m), and the restaurant «Olive Istanbul» (300 m). The location offers easy access to historic sites and a variety of restaurants and shops.
Tips
- Arrive early for breakfast to avoid limited food availability after 9:00 AM.
- Request rooms on higher floors if possible, but be aware that adjoining rooms are not guaranteed.
- Prepare for some uphill walking to reach the hotel due to its location on a steep hill in the old city.
Policies and conditions
- Child policies: Children of all ages are welcome at this property. 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: For all room types, cribs cannot be added. Extra bed policies vary according to room type. Please refer to the relevant room type policy.
- Breakfast: Buffet [Mon - Sun] 08:00-10:00 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: MasterCard, JSB, Visa, AmericanExpress, UnionPay
- Check in time: 14:00. Check out time: 12:00.
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Services and facilities
Internet
- Wi-Fi in public areas
Parking
- Parking
Transportation
- Taxi booking service
- Shuttle service
- Airport pick-up
- Airport drop-off
Front desk services
- Lockers available
- Express check-in and check-out
- Concierge service
- Safe at front desk
- Luggage storage
- Wake-up call
- Tour and ticket booking service
- VIP check-in service
Languages spoken
- English
- Arabic
- Turkish
- Russian
Food & drink
- Bar
- Lobby bar
- Room service
- Alcohol-free property
Health & wellness
- Beauty and makeup
Public areas
- No smoking in public areas
- Smoking area
- Elevator
Cleaning services
- Clothes dryer
- Dry cleaning
- Laundry service (on-site)
- Ironing service
- Clothes steamer
Business services
- Postal service
- Fax/copying service
Safety & security
- First aid kit
- Intruder alarm
- Smoke detector
- Fire extinguisher
- CCTV in public areas
- Security personnel
- First aid room
The distance to the sea is 330 meters
Hotel view
Google panorama
Video: Dara Old City Hotel Istanbul Review - Should You Stay At This Hotel?
Map
Reviews
11.11.2025
I had a wonderful stay at this hotel! My request was accepted quickly, and the check-in process went smoothly.
The breakfast was delicious, and the room was clean and comfortable. The staff were very friendly and always ready to help.
Special thanks to the receptionist, Shakhzod, who was extremely kind and professional. Thank you for making my stay so pleasant! 🙏✨
The breakfast was delicious, and the room was clean and comfortable. The staff were very friendly and always ready to help.
Special thanks to the receptionist, Shakhzod, who was extremely kind and professional. Thank you for making my stay so pleasant! 🙏✨
04.11.2025
I recently stayed at the Old Sara City Hotel in Istanbul for five days, and my experience was mixed.
Location:
The hotel is conveniently situated just a four-minute walk from both the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, making it an excellent base for exploring these iconic sites. There’s a nearby market, several bars, and a variety of restaurants, which adds to the overall appeal of the area.
Rooftop Terrace:
I booked the hotel specifically for its rooftop terrace, but I was disappointed to find that it was never opened during my stay. This was a letdown, as I was looking forward to enjoying the views.
Room Quality:
Unfortunately, the room itself was substandard and extremely tiny. The toilet in my room was problematic; it sometimes flushed and sometimes didn't, and it wobbled, which was quite unsettling.
Breakfast Experience:
Breakfast is supposed to be served until 10 AM, but if you arrive after 9, you’ll be left eating crumbs. This was frustrating and certainly did not meet my expectations.
Overall Experience:
Given the condition of the room and the disappointing breakfast situation, I would rate my stay at just 1 star. The location is great, and the staff were friendly, but the issues with room quality and the unavailability of the rooftop terrace significantly impacted my experience.
Location:
The hotel is conveniently situated just a four-minute walk from both the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, making it an excellent base for exploring these iconic sites. There’s a nearby market, several bars, and a variety of restaurants, which adds to the overall appeal of the area.
Rooftop Terrace:
I booked the hotel specifically for its rooftop terrace, but I was disappointed to find that it was never opened during my stay. This was a letdown, as I was looking forward to enjoying the views.
Room Quality:
Unfortunately, the room itself was substandard and extremely tiny. The toilet in my room was problematic; it sometimes flushed and sometimes didn't, and it wobbled, which was quite unsettling.
Breakfast Experience:
Breakfast is supposed to be served until 10 AM, but if you arrive after 9, you’ll be left eating crumbs. This was frustrating and certainly did not meet my expectations.
Overall Experience:
Given the condition of the room and the disappointing breakfast situation, I would rate my stay at just 1 star. The location is great, and the staff were friendly, but the issues with room quality and the unavailability of the rooftop terrace significantly impacted my experience.
16.10.2025
I had a very pleasant stay at this hotel. The rooms are clean, spacious, and well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and always willing to help. The breakfast was varied and delicious, and the location is excellent — close to the main attractions. The value for money is great. I highly recommend this place and would definitely come back!
13.10.2025
Dara Hotel is a comfortable and conveniently located accommodation in the historic Sultanahmet area of Istanbul. It is within walking distance of major landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar, making it an excellent choice for visitors who want to explore the old city on foot. The neighborhood is lively yet peaceful, with many cafés, restaurants, and small shops nearby.
The hotel offers clean, well-maintained rooms equipped with essential amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a minibar, and private bathrooms. Some rooms also feature city or sea views. The design is simple and cozy, reflecting a mix of modern comfort and traditional Turkish touches. Housekeeping is regular, and the property is generally quiet, providing a relaxing environment for guests after sightseeing.
Breakfast is usually served on the rooftop terrace, where guests can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the Bosphorus. The buffet includes a variety of local and continental options, fresh fruits, and traditional Turkish tea and coffee.
The reception staff are professional, helpful, and often provide useful travel tips or arrange airport transfers and tours upon request. The overall service quality is consistent, and check-in/check-out procedures are smooth.
In summary, Dara Hotel offers good value for money, a convenient location, and friendly service, making it a suitable option for tourists seeking a clean and comfortable stay in Istanbul’s historic center.
The hotel offers clean, well-maintained rooms equipped with essential amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a minibar, and private bathrooms. Some rooms also feature city or sea views. The design is simple and cozy, reflecting a mix of modern comfort and traditional Turkish touches. Housekeeping is regular, and the property is generally quiet, providing a relaxing environment for guests after sightseeing.
Breakfast is usually served on the rooftop terrace, where guests can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the Bosphorus. The buffet includes a variety of local and continental options, fresh fruits, and traditional Turkish tea and coffee.
The reception staff are professional, helpful, and often provide useful travel tips or arrange airport transfers and tours upon request. The overall service quality is consistent, and check-in/check-out procedures are smooth.
In summary, Dara Hotel offers good value for money, a convenient location, and friendly service, making it a suitable option for tourists seeking a clean and comfortable stay in Istanbul’s historic center.
25.08.2025
We have booked 2 quadruples rooms paied and asked for high floors
When my parents arrived late night they didnt find our both quadruple rooms (large rooms) and they give my old parents small tiny uncomfortable room, stinky rooms,
This is so desapointing, my parent feel ill, and it wasfor their 80 years birthday, this is shameful!!
When my parents arrived late night they didnt find our both quadruple rooms (large rooms) and they give my old parents small tiny uncomfortable room, stinky rooms,
This is so desapointing, my parent feel ill, and it wasfor their 80 years birthday, this is shameful!!
13.08.2025
Whatever you do, don't stay at this hotel , it was dreadful. When we arrived nobody spoke english and we were shown into a room which was basically a cell. The room was so small l had to climb over my husband to get into bed. There was one light in the room and taped up together to over the live wires. Wallpaper was peeling of the walls, and also on the stairs, no toiletries and no-one came and cleaned the room. The lock on the door was broken and the 'safe' was so small and loose anyone could walk out with it in their hand. The toilet was going into the floor and the only benefit of going in March was it was cooler, because the air-conditioning wasn't working. The person in reception didn't want to know, eventually l complained to someone in the restaurant upstairs and we we given a slightly better room, but the whole place was dark and seedy and certainly less standard than the 3 star rating it has.
18.06.2025
The hotel was a in a good location despite walking up a steep hill. Staff were friendly Lift to room but very tiny only 2 people Hallway to room very dark Key card to room to work electric. We had a corner room 303 one single and double bed Room was clean some paper coming off. There was a fridge but only worked when card in electric( write up says mini bar) we had water first day but none after Air con no control so couldn’t regulate it again worked when keycard in slot Bathroom clean shower gel in container on wall Tv on wall ( didn’t use) No safe in room. Wi-Fi available Breakfast very good on terrace. Plenty variety. Restaurant very pricey others in area better and better for money We had a discrepancy with bill as we had been overcharged for drinks we didn’t have. We had already paid before it was checked so they reimburse it. Did do transfer from Istanbul Airport 90 euro return for 3 of us
30.05.2025
Not too good. I booked a hotel here the first night they check me in the wrong room.even I can’t sleep all the night. Another day when i speak to them thats I didn’t book that room so they changed. When i move to that room there is no water for all the night and the next too. They even don’t have any backup. Very disappointed.
21.05.2025
Room 108...shower head/hose was broken and had to be hand held...room very small with minimal storage... wallpaper peeling off...old and tatty laundry...fridge that didn't work and was filthy...pile of cigarette butts outside the window, a previous guest was obviously using it as a smoking area... bank of Aircon units on the wall outside that were outrageously noisy and not in our control. Worst of all the room is a fire hazard as the fire escape outside was blocked off and there was no alternative route. Refused a change of room by rude and officious receptionist The only positive is the location, very central to the old town
27.04.2025
Positive: Russian and English speaking receptionist always present at the reception; location - five minutes away from the Blue Mosque; good Wi-Fi; great view from the roof; there is an elevator (though, maximum two people will fit tightly).
Negative: the rooms are very shabby, the wallpaper is peeling off the walls right in the center and in some places it seems like there is mold on the walls, a poorly functional closet that only takes up space, of which there is practically none in the room; the toilet was loose, the shower hose was leaking. The first time the trash was taken out only after we asked to do so. In principle, the bathroom was very conditionally cleaned before our arrival - other people's hair was hanging in the corners.
Additional comments: the breakfast is not bad, although everything ran out quickly, even boiling water. The pillows are hard - an acquired taste, but the mattress is comfortable. We got a room with windows overlooking the courtyard-well, so it was always dark in it. We rented two "adjacent rooms" (that's what it was called on the website when we booked), but on the first night we were put on different floors and told that they weren't obliged to give us adjoining rooms. Apparently, the adjacency was because the rooms were in the same hotel. The audibility is terrible, and the doors close with a loud slam with all their might, and if walking around Istanbul doesn't exhaust you, then slamming doors coupled with the muezzin at 5 am will make the night unforgettable.
The patio on the roof is really nice, it's a shame that for some reason it was kept open for exactly 1 day.
Negative: the rooms are very shabby, the wallpaper is peeling off the walls right in the center and in some places it seems like there is mold on the walls, a poorly functional closet that only takes up space, of which there is practically none in the room; the toilet was loose, the shower hose was leaking. The first time the trash was taken out only after we asked to do so. In principle, the bathroom was very conditionally cleaned before our arrival - other people's hair was hanging in the corners.
Additional comments: the breakfast is not bad, although everything ran out quickly, even boiling water. The pillows are hard - an acquired taste, but the mattress is comfortable. We got a room with windows overlooking the courtyard-well, so it was always dark in it. We rented two "adjacent rooms" (that's what it was called on the website when we booked), but on the first night we were put on different floors and told that they weren't obliged to give us adjoining rooms. Apparently, the adjacency was because the rooms were in the same hotel. The audibility is terrible, and the doors close with a loud slam with all their might, and if walking around Istanbul doesn't exhaust you, then slamming doors coupled with the muezzin at 5 am will make the night unforgettable.
The patio on the roof is really nice, it's a shame that for some reason it was kept open for exactly 1 day.
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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 (3 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 (5 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 Dara Old City Hotel
What types of rooms are available at Dara Old City Hotel?
The hotel offers Family Suite, Family Room, Standard Double Or Twin Room, Standard Quadruple Room, and Standard Triple Room.
Is breakfast included and what are the serving times?
Breakfast is served buffet style from 08:00 to 10:00 daily. It is not included in the room price and must be paid for at the property.
Does the hotel have a rooftop terrace with city views?
Yes, there is a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus, but some guests reported it was often closed during their stay.
Is parking available at the hotel?
The hotel offers parking, but it is paid.
Are pets allowed at Dara Old City Hotel?
No, pets and service animals are not allowed at this property.
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