Avicenna Hotel

Opened in 1990, the hotel occupies a 19th-century house that's actually two wooden buildings separated by a pretty courtyard terrace, which can be accessed from both sides. A covered walkway with latticed railings also connects the two buildings on the second story. The main building has a small lobby that's heavy on traditional decor, with chandeliers hanging from recessed ceilings painted in gold and marble tiled floors. The walls have ornate white-and-gold wallpaper and wainscoting. A seating area has purple and red velvet furnishings, but it's a bit cramped and a poorly planned section of flooring has a glaring seam where the tiles do not align. Halfway down the hall, an open marble staircase provides guests access to other floors (there's no elevator), and there's a lounge in the back of the building with a mirrored wall and high-backed tufted couches. 

The hotel is located in the historic district of Sultanahmet, within walking distance of the city's most popular tourist attractions. It's less than a 10-minute walk to the Basilica Cistern, Sultan Ahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque), and the Hagia Sophia. Topkapi Palace Museum is an 14-minute walk away. There are many other hotels located in the immediate vicinity, as well as restaurants, cafes, and shops catering to tourists. Public transportation is less than 10 minutes away, and Taksim Square is roughly a 30-minute ride. Ataturk International Airport is about 30 minutes away by car when traffic is light, or about an hour on public transportation.

The hotel's 48 rooms are split between the two connected buildings with courtyard or city views, and some have wonderful views of the Bosphorus, though the windows tend to be small. Some have high ceilings, though the rooms with the best views on the top floors have vaulted ceilings. Decor is traditional, and while the overall look is somewhat quirky, spaces are cozy and comfortable, with parquet wood floors and striking red accents. Standard rooms have twin or double beds and small seating areas that have tiny round tables and red slipcovered chairs. Flat-screen TVs are mounted on mirrored wall panels and free Wi-Fi is included. Air-conditioning, minibars and electric kettles come standard, but there are no coffeemakers. Upgraded rooms add furnished balconies with wooden privacy walls and railings, but some need look a bit tired. Some bathrooms are more modern than others, with gray tiles and round basin sinks, while others are more basic and functional. All have either walk-in showers or shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and toiletries. 

On the top floor, an a la cart restaurant and bar called Sipsi has lovely views of the Bosphorus. Free continental breakfast with cheese, pastries, and boiled eggs is served in a breakfast room with ornate wallpaper and tables with pretty decorative tiles. There are also tables and chairs outside on a wooden deck in the courtyard. Other amenities include a lobby internet corner with a laptop, 24-hour front desk, concierge, parking for an extra charge, and free Wi-Fi throughout.