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From40US$ /night
Check-in
20Dec2025Select date
Check-out
21Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Kucuk Ayasofya Mah., Istanbul, Tr, Istanbul, Turkey
-
Close to historic sites
Great
8.2
/10
4.6
/5

Rooms with Views

Rooms include a flat-screen TV, minibar, electric kettle, and private bathroom with free toiletries. Some offer sea views from balconies or terraces, with select rooms featuring separate sleeping and sitting areas with convertible couches.

Dining and Cooking

The hotel restaurant hosts 3-hour Turkish cooking classes for visitors. Guests can enjoy fresh meals, Turkish coffee, and drinks onsite. Nearby options include a traditional tavern with live Gypsy music and meze, and a self-service barbecue restaurant where you grill kebabs.

Entertainment and Activities

Watch a folklore show or attend the Mevlevi sema ceremony at Hodjapasha Dance Theater, featuring Persian chanting and traditional music. The hotel is close to Set Üstü Çay Bahçesi, which offers views of the Bosphorus, Sea of Marmara, and Princes' Islands.

Location and Transport

The hotel is 800 meters from Sultanahmet Tram stop, with connections to Taksim Square and Eminonü port. It is 45 km from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport. Nearby sites include the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, Grand Bazaar, and Spice Market.

Services and Amenities

Daily housekeeping, 24/7 reception, and safety deposit boxes are provided. Rooms include air conditioning, heating, and soundproofing. The hotel offers a welcome drink for all guests and a complimentary bottle of wine and fruit basket for stays of 3 nights or more.

Must-do experiences

  • Take a Bosphorus cruise at sunset for stunning views of the city.
  • Savor traditional baklava at Karaköy Güllüoğlu, a local favorite.
  • Visit the Chora Church for breathtaking mosaics and stunning art.
  • Stroll through the vibrant Grand Bazaar for unique souvenirs and spices.
  • Enjoy a Turkish bath experience at Çemberlitaş Hamamı for relaxation.
View all

Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.
Double or Twin Room
2 persons
13 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Suite Balcony Sea View
2 persons
30 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Connecting Family Room
2 persons
30 m² 
2 Single beds
Shower
Coffee machine

Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Car park
  • Handicap parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Currency exchange
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Housekeeping
  • Car hire
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Dinner

Business

  • Business centre
  • Fax/Photocopying

Spa & Leisure

  • Live entertainment

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Mini-bar
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Parquet floor
Show more

Location

Kucuk Ayasofya Mah., Istanbul, Tr, Istanbul, Turkey
Map view
Kucuk Ayasofya Mah., Istanbul, Tr, Istanbul, Turkey
Nearby
Binbirdirek
Walled Obelisk
310 m
Restaurants
Rose Garden Mezze
240 m
Binbirdirek. mah. Peykhane. Cd. no 16 Sultanahmet binbirdirek
Tarihi Cesme
220 m
Kadirga Liman Cadessi Fatih
Doy Doy Restaurant
270 m
Sifa Hamami Sok. No: 13 Sultanahmet
Reggae BR
230 m
Kucuk Ayasofya Mah. Kadirda Limani Cad. No: 147/1
Ezgi
230 m
Kardiga Liman Cad. No 185 Kucukayasofya-Eminonu/Istanbul
Bad Service Home Food
220 m
Kucuk Ayasofya Mahallesi
Hunkar Kebap Restaurant
260 m
Kadirga Limani Caddesi No: 143/A
Loop Garden Cafe Restaurant
530 m
Sultanahmet Kennedy Cd. No 44 Kennedy Caddesi no 44
CarsI sultanahmet bufe
450 m
49-51 Peykhane Caddesi
Explore Istanbul
Explore the Area Around Walnut Shell Hotel
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Hagia Sophia Museum
12 minutes' walk
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this architectural marvel features stunning mosaics and centuries of rich history. Regular guided tours available.
Blue Mosque
12 minutes' walk
Known for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets, this iconic mosque is both a spiritual center and a popular photo spot.
Basilica Cistern
12 minutes' walk
This ancient underground water reservoir showcases fascinating columns and a serene atmosphere perfect for history enthusiasts.
Topkapi Palace
12 minutes' walk
Once the residence of Ottoman sultans, this expansive palace features stunning gardens and elaborate rooms, including the Harem.
Boat Tour on the Bosphorus
10 minutes' drive
Experience the stunning skyline of Istanbul from the water. Various tours available, ranging from short outings to lengthy excursions.
Turkish Bath at Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamami
12 minutes' walk
This historic hamam offers relaxation through traditional treatments. Consider booking in advance for popular time slots.
Rose Garden Mezze
3 minutes' walk
This cozy eatery specializes in delicious mezze and traditional Turkish dishes, perfect for family meals or casual dining.
Doy Doy Restaurant
4 minutes' walk
Famous for its kebabs and local flavors, this casual restaurant offers a warm ambiance and an extensive menu for all diets.
Reggae BR
3 minutes' walk
A lively bar scene with live music and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a drink and some tunes after a day of exploring.
Historic Areas of Istanbul
12 minutes' walk
This lively district hosts street performances and cultural events, making it a great spot for families and couples alike.
Getting around
City Centre
Istanbul10 min  ·  800 m
Airports
Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW)64 min  ·  42.1 km
Istanbul Airport (IST)74 min  ·  48.9 km
Train
Sultanahmet Tram Station9 min  ·  700 m
Underground
Vezneciler20 min  ·  1.6 km
Yenikapi (M1)24 min  ·  2.0 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:59
Check-out
until 12 pm
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible at a location nearby at EUR 10 per day.
Internet
is available in for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Walnut Shell provides visitors with a free full breakfast. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
10
Former name
walnut shell hotel - old city sultanahmet
Questions of the users
About Walnut Shell Hotel
Are unmarried couples allowed to share a room at the hotel?
12 April 2024
No marriage certificate is required for unmarried couples wishing to stay together.
What is the cost for airport transfers from Istanbul Airport for a group of four?
5 June 2024
The airport transfer from Istanbul Airport to the hotel is priced at 50 € per way for a private car.
Do connected rooms come with separate bathrooms?
15 March 2024
Yes, connected rooms feature two separate bathrooms for added convenience.
Can I check in early? Also, are there additional charges for airport transfer for one person?
22 July 2024
Early check-in is subject to availability, and the airport transfer for one person costs 40 € one way.
Is it possible for my girlfriend to check in a day before my arrival? How does that work?
30 August 2024
Yes, she can check in on her own if she shows the reservation details.
Are there any restrictions for a single female traveler booking a room?
10 November 2024
There are no restrictions for single female travelers at the hotel; it is safe and welcoming.
Is breakfast included in the room rate?
4 December 2024
Guests can choose to include breakfast in their rate or opt for a rate without it.
Does the property have an elevator for easy access to the upper floors?
18 February 2025
There is no elevator available at the hotel, so guests will need to use the stairs.
How far is the hotel from the nearest tram station?
25 January 2025
The hotel is approximately a 10-minute walk from Sultanahmet tram station.
Do guests need to provide a copy of their passport or ID prior to checking in?
21 March 2025
Yes, a copy of a passport or ID is required for check-in.
Are guests able to take a baby with them during their stay?
17 April 2025
Families with young children are welcome, and it is fine for a baby to sleep in the same bed.
Is there parking available nearby if the hotel does not have its own?
8 September 2024
The hotel does not have private parking, but there is a safe public parking area just a 3-minute walk away.

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