Lonely Planet Review

This terrace of nine lovingly restored wooden houses lining Topkapi Palace's outer wall is furnished with original Ottoman antiques. Here you sleep by Aya Sofya's back door and Topkapi Palace's front door.

This would have to be in one of Istanbul's best locations. Each of the terraces faces a quaint cobbled lane, Sogukçesme Sokak, which backs Aya Sofya. You're also only a short stroll from Old Istanbul's many other sights. Breakfast here is in the quaint Sogukçesme Restaurant in winter and in a garden setting in summer. Communal spaces are confined to each house, which have their own elegant, if simply furnished, sitting room. Rooms have original Ottoman-style furnishings complete with brass beds, simple chandeliers and ruffled curtains. Bathrooms are excellent. If you're after a view, book a room in one of the houses closest to reception, and on the top floor. Note, however, the original lattice window shades, built to protect the women of the house from 'prying eyes', will obstruct some of the views.