AJWA Sultanahmet

My husband and I have traveled extensively throughout the world but this is one review that we just couldn’t wait to write! As someone who has visited Turkey maybe 20 times so far, Ajwa Hotel is one that I will remember above all others. From the moment that we arrived, a lineup of friendly staff members greeted us with warm smiles, helpful hands and a genuineness that made us immediately feel at home. A beautiful table for two was set up with welcome drinks to enjoy while our luggage was taken up. The lobby is adorned with gorgeous, handmade furniture, decadent artwork and exquisite silk rugs. We marveled at how the space was large enough to feel palatial yet intimate enough to feel cozy and warm. Once our suite was ready we were escorted upstairs to be familiarized with the amenities and further settled in. Entering the suite was like entering one of the beautiful paintings in the lobby. Warm tones, rich textures, silk under my feet and a marble bathtub I couldn’t wait to jump in! The bed was a dream with silky sheets, a plush mattress and very much appreciated after hours of travel. Everywhere we looked, there was a clear investment in the guest experience. The laundry bag was a high quality, embroidered cotton, bedroom slippers were placed on either side of the bed. Perhaps the best part was a printed family photo that was thoughtfully displayed on a wreath of flower petals. With the assistance of the hotel staff, my husband had been able to arrange this special surprise in honor of our honeymoon. Moments later, a scrumptious cake arrived marking the perfect ending to a perfect night. Breakfast the next morning served a colorful variety of homemade salads, juices and a la carte options to choose from. Our sunny side up eggs were basically perfection. From our seats, we could see the young chef skillfully spooning oil like this was the only thing in the world that mattered. At 6:30am, that was impressive. The coffee was strong and hot—again, super appreciated for this jet lagged duo. Overall, the waitstaff was incredibly attentive to detail and anticipating of our needs. For example, when I rose to select a yogurt from the buffet, a fresh spoon was waiting for me at the table. Speaking of spoons, there is a unique collection of antique spoons decorating the terrace’s walls. I couldn’t help but fill my camera roll as each and every frame had something interesting and distinct from the next. Upon our departure, we were once again greeted by a beautiful bouquet of staff members who gathered to bid us farewell on our continued journey. I cannot think of another time when I have felt so warm, so welcome, so sad to leave but so excited to come back. In a country as abundant with hotels and a robust tourism industry, it is remarkable to evoke such a feeling among guests. Ajwa Hotel, you have done this and more. Thank you! We can’t wait to stay at your new location in Cappadocia, as well.

Stayed at the Ajwa for 4 nights during a trip to Istanbul. The breakfast is not bad - it was limited, but this may have been because our visit was during off season in November 2023. The hotel is pretty and the staff are welcoming. Room service is not the best! The top-up bar wasn't always topped, and milk from the previous night wasn't taken away, no top up on tea! . There were no milk pods to make tea, which wasn't good, and we had to keep telling staff to top up. The location was good, a lot of uphill walking to get to places, 5 mins walk from bazaar, shops and blue mosques. The facilities are good - There are separate times for men and women to access the spa. No alcohol served at the hotel. I would come back to this hotel if I ever returned to Istanbul. The view from bedrooms to see the mosque isn't great. A great view is from the hotel restaurant.