Lonely Planet Review

Ararat owns one of the best views in the city - it's almost in the shadow of the Blue Mosque. This small boutique option also has a lovely terrace, mostly small but very comfortable rooms, and friendly hosts.

The rooftop sitting room is a cosy place in winter with an open fire to curl up beside. In summer you'll be out on the terrace enjoying uninterrupted views of the Blue Mosque or to the Sea of Marmara. The comfortable rooms are a tight squeeze, but beautifully decorated with Byzantine-inspired artwork and earthy tones. Mirrors have been judiciously placed in some rooms to make them seem larger. Bathrooms are spotless. The best rooms are at the front of the hotel overlooking the mosque, so it's worth paying that little extra. The suite rooms are larger than average rooms, though not necessarily with any special features, so it's probably not worth paying extra for these. One of our favourite choices is room 14, sharing the terrace view - the terrace isn't often busy so you could easily make it your own.