Best Western Empire Palace Hotel & Spa Istanbul Exterior photoBest Western Empire Palace Hotel & Spa Istanbul Exterior photoBest Western Empire Palace Hotel & Spa Istanbul Exterior photo
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From137US$ /night
Check-in
23Apr2026Select date
Check-out
24Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Hocapasa Mah. Hudavenigar Cad. 17/19, Istanbul, Turkey, 34400
-
Steps from the Historic Old Town
Great
8.9
7.1
/10
4.6
4.1
/5

Location

Best Western Empire Palace Hotel & Spa is situated in the heart of Istanbul's Old City, allowing easy access to major tourist attractions. The Spice Bazaar is just a 10-minute walk from the hotel, while Gülhane Park is located next door. The tram station nearby and the ferry terminal within a 15-minute walk facilitate convenient travel around the city.

Rooms

The hotel offers a variety of room types, accommodating solo travelers and families alike. Guests can choose from comfortable twin rooms that include single and double beds, ensuring a restful stay. All rooms come equipped with essential amenities such as a minibar, safe box, and complimentary water.

Wellness

The standout feature of the hotel is its traditional Turkish Bath, known as Hammam, which provides an authentic cultural experience. Guests can also unwind in the sauna, enhancing the relaxation aspect of their stay. Booking for the Turkish Bath is available at the reception desk, allowing personal use or shared enjoyment.

Dining

Dining at Best Western Empire Palace includes a delicious breakfast and easy access to various local eateries. Guests can explore nearby food options, enjoying the rich flavors of Istanbul. The hotel's environment supports family-friendly dining with accessible choices for guests of all ages.

Service

The hotel provides attentive service, ensuring guests receive a warm welcome upon arrival. Assistance with luggage and recommendations for local highlights add to the level of concierge service available.

Highlights

Location: city-center hotel, just 10 min to iconic sites

Rooms: various room types including family rooms

Wellness: traditional Turkish Bath experience

Dining: easy access to local restaurants

Must-do experiences

  • Visit Spice Bazaar for vibrant spices and local deli treats.
  • Explore the historic hidden val Istanbul Underground Cistern.
  • Savor a traditional Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi.
  • Catch a sunset at Galata Bridge, a favorite among locals.
  • Take a ferry to the Princes' Islands for a day of relaxation.
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Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.
Family Room
2 persons
270 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Air conditioning
Double Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Air conditioning
Triple Room
2 persons
250 sq. feet 
1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
Air conditioning
Twin Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Air conditioning
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Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay
Facilities: Great
8.6/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Lift
  • Currency exchange
  • Coffee shop
  • Smoke detectors
  • Key card access

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Car hire
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Grocery shopping service
  • Shops/Commercial services
  • Welcome drink
  • Happy hour

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's buffet

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Sauna
  • Turkish bath
  • Massage
  • Public Bath

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Mini-bar
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Bathroom telephone

Media

  • Direct dial telephone
  • AM/FM alarm clock
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Dining Onsite

At the Best Western Empire Palace Hotel & Spa, the dining options offer a delightful taste of Turkish cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere perfect for families. Whether it's a leisurely lunch or an elegant high tea, guests can savor the unique flavors of Halal dishes in a charming setting.
Best Western Empire Palace Hotel & Spa Istanbul Restaurant photo
Best Western Empire Palace Hotel & Spa Istanbul Restaurant photo
Best Western Empire Palace Hotel & Spa Istanbul Restaurant photo

Bistro Chef

Turkish
Ambiance
Family-friendly bistro featuring a cozy bar/lounge with a refreshing garden view.
Key Offerings
Specializes in Halal meals including a range of traditional Turkish dishes. Perfect for high tea and evening cocktail hours.
Reservation
Recommended for high tea and dinner times.
Open for lunch, dinner, high tea, and cocktail hour.

Best Western Empire Palace Hotel & Spa Location

Hocapasa Mah. Hudavenigar Cad. 17/19, Istanbul, Turkey, 34400
Map view
Hocapasa Mah. Hudavenigar Cad. 17/19, Istanbul, Turkey, 34400
Nearby
Cankurtaran Mh.
Topkapi Palace harem
1700 ft
Alemdar Mah. Alemdar Cad. Eminonu/Cagaloglu
Gulhane Park
1800 ft
Museum
Istanbul Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam
1300 ft
Caferiye Sk. Sogukkuyu Cikmazi No:5
Caferaga Madrasa
1400 ft
The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
1800 ft
Restaurants
Hafiz Mustafa 1864
900 ft
Hocapasa Mahallesi
Olive Anatolian Restaurant
500 ft
Ebusuud Cad. No:18
Constantine's Ark Gurme Restaurant
400 ft
Hoca Pasa Mah. Ibn-i Kemal Cad. No: 13 Fatih,Sirkeci
Bistro Chef Restaurant & Cafe
300 ft
Hudavendigar Cad. No: 17 Sirkeci
Roof Mezze 360
200 ft
Hoca Pasa Mahallesi
Raymond Restaurant
400 ft
Ebusuut Caddesi.No:22 sirkeci old city/ ISTANBUL
Cafe Mese
100 ft
Hudavendigar Caddesi No: 27 Sirkeci
Red River Pub
100 ft
Hudavendigar Street No: 28-30/B
Capadocia Restaurant
300 ft
Hoca Pasa Mahallesi
Sultan's Restaurant
400 ft
Torun sokak 19 Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
Ti Amo Bistro &Cafe
200 ft
Saffetipasa Sokak. No:10 Hocapaşa
Explore Istanbul
Explore Istanbul's Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Hagia Sophia Museum
Hagia Sophia Museum
10 minutes' walk
Historic architectural marvel, featuring stunning mosaics. Offers a blend of cultures and free admission on certain days.
Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque
15 minutes' walk
Famous for its stunning blue tiles and grand domes. Open for worship, visitors can experience its serene ambiance.
Basilica Cistern
Basilica Cistern
9 minutes' walk
Ancient underground reservoir showcasing beautiful columns and ambient lighting. Unique guided tours available.
Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace
14 minutes' walk
Former residence of Ottoman sultans, offering rich history and intriguing artifacts. Grounds are perfect for leisurely strolls.
Biking at Gulhane Park
7 minutes' walk
Scenic cycling paths in a historic park. Bike rentals available nearby for an enjoyable ride through lush greenery.
Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamami
Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamami
9 minutes' walk
Traditional Turkish bath experience with luxurious treatments. Perfect for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
Olive Anatolian Restaurant
Olive Anatolian Restaurant
2 minutes' walk
Offers authentic Anatolian cuisine in a cozy setting. Known for its delicious kebabs and vegetarian options.
Roof Mezze 360
Roof Mezze 360
1 minute' walk
A rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Istanbul. Ideal for sharing mezze while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere.
Misir Bazaar
15 minutes' walk
A lively marketplace filled with spices, sweets, and local crafts. Family-friendly with vibrant sights and sounds.
Babylon Bomonti
10 minutes' drive
Popular venue for live music and cultural events. Diverse programming suitable for all ages, including concerts and performances.
Getting around
City Centre
Istanbul8 min  ·  2000 ft
Airports
Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International (SAW)67 min  ·  27.5 mi
Istanbul (IST)68 min  ·  28.1 mi
Train
Sirkeci Train Station4 min  ·  1000 ft
Sultanahmet Tram Station8 min  ·  2000 ft
Underground
Halic18 min  ·  5000 ft
Vezneciler18 min  ·  5000 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
A american breakfast is served at affordable prices. 
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room.  There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
Russian, Turkish
Year renovated:
2009
Number of floors:
7
Number of rooms:
30

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Best Western Empire Palace Hotel & Spa enjoys a prime location for exploring Istanbul, with major attractions like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque within easy reach. Guests appreciate the spacious and comfortable rooms, often mentioning the excellent beds and pillows, and well-equipped bathrooms. The hotel's breakfast receives positive feedback for its variety, including local options, though some have noted that the floor cleanliness could be improved. Guests also enjoy access to the sauna and hammam.
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Review score
Based on 974 verified reviews
8.8/10
Great
90%
Recommend
Location
9.6/10
Staff
9.5/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.3/10
Breakfast
8.0/10
Pros
Friendly staff
Great location
Comfortable rooms
Helpful staff
Walking distance
Cons
Old furniture
Guest reviews
based on 974 reviews
8.8/10
based on 1828 reviews
8.9/10
Joseph from Canada
Family with children
Family Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 12, 2026
9.3/10

EXCELLENT stay near main attractions

prime locationhelpful staffclean roomsgreat breakfast
The hotel's location IS PRIME, providing easy access to various attractions! I found the staff members helpful and friendly. They always offered assistance with a SMILE. The rooms were clean. Breakfast WAS GREAT with plenty of choices to start my day!
The street noise from the tram line was noticeable during the day. it didn't severely affect my stay.
Rooms
9/10
The room featured comfortable beds and daily cleaning services that maintained a high standard of cleanliness. The air conditioning worked efficiently, maintaining a comfortable temperature and two complimentary bottles of water were provided daily, a nice touch.
Service
10/10
The staff demonstrated consistent kindness and were always ready to answer questions with helpful information. Check-in and check-out processes were quick and efficient. Staff was available to arrange airport transfers. Concierge service was available 24/7.
Location
9/10
The hotel is conveniently situated within walking distance of several major attractions, like Hagia Sophia. There were many restaurants and shops surrounding the hotel, giving many dining and shopping options. The tram stop is nearby, enabling easy transportation throughout the city.
0 Helpful
|
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roberto from italy
Couple
double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 06, 2026
9.5/10

excellent stay. great location!

easy explorationattentive staffdelicious soupcomfortable rooms
the location allows easy exploration of the sultanahmet area. the staff was attentive and helpful at all times. the lentil soup from the restaurant was particularly delicious and i recommend it. the rooms were comfortable for relaxation after sightseeing.
I noticed very slight dust in some corners of the room. Overall cleanliness was still acceptable.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel has a hamam and a sauna, these amenities provided opportunities for relaxation. the presence of these features added to the overall value of the stay. they are well kept.
Dining
9/10
the breakfast buffet includes a selection of traditional turkish options. the restaurant is open all day, and that allows for flexible meal times. it is convenient seeking varied cuisines.
Location
10/10
the hotel is near major attractions, including topkapi palace and the blue mosque. public transport is accessible, which simplifies travel. many restaurants and shops are in the area.
Service
10/10
the front desk staff is helpful and friendly. i appreciate the assistance from irfan and other members of the staff.
0 Helpful
|
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Elena from Italy
Family with children
Family Room
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 18, 2026
5/10
acceptable locationpoor cleanlinessconstant noise
The hotel's location was acceptable, providing easy access to main attractions.
The room cleanliness was quite poor. I found dust everywhere. I was also disturbed by constant noise at night. I could hear everything from outside because the windows did not close properly.
0 Helpful
Helena from Greece
Family with children
double room
5 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 02, 2025
6/10

adequate stay

convenient locationwarm greetingsmooth room selectionlimited breakfastdated furniture
the location was convenient for seeing attractions. the staff member, salim, greeted us warmly upon arrival. the room selection process went smoothly and met our needs.
the breakfast options were limited. the furniture looked dated throughout the hotel.
0 Helpful
Questions of the users
About Best Western Empire Palace Hotel & Spa
What is the distance from the hotel to the Blue Mosque?
15 November 2024
The Blue Mosque is just a 5-minute walk away from the hotel.
Is there any cost associated with using the spa facilities?
10 December 2024
Using the hammam and spa facilities is complimentary as long as no additional services are requested.
Are there any celebrations for New Year's Eve at the hotel?
28 December 2024
A gala dinner with music and belly dancing will be held to celebrate New Year's Eve.
Is parking available for guests, and what are the fees?
5 January 2025
There are four private parking options nearby, each available at an extra charge.
Can arrangements for airport transfers be made through the hotel?
20 January 2025
Messaging the hotel in advance will ensure arrangements for airport transfers can be organized.
How far are the paid parking facilities from the hotel?
12 February 2025
The paid parking facilities are located just 5 minutes away from the hotel.
Are the hotel rooms designated as non-smoking?
18 February 2025
All rooms in the hotel are non-smoking accommodations.
Is the hotel restaurant currently open for dining?
25 February 2025
Yes, the restaurant is open for guests to enjoy meals.
Can guests make use of the Turkish Bath and sauna?
1 March 2025
The spa and Turkish Bath are open for guests, with no additional charges for using the facilities.
Are there facilities or services available for pets?
15 March 2025
Pet beds are available for dogs and cats, though a pet shop is not nearby.
What assistance is available for guests needing disability access?
22 March 2025
While the hotel does not have specialized access, staff members are available to assist during check-in.

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