Visiting Istanbul can give you not only a chance to experience great food and culture but a chance to visit some of Istanbul's most iconic religious and historical sites. One of the most unique places to stay for that is at Hagia Sofia Mansions. These are part of the Curio Collection by Hilton.
A collection of individual mansions that are in the heart of Old Town. Within a block, you find the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Museum, the Basilica Cistern, and the Sultanahmet tram station. The hotel also features a spa, pool, and open-air dining. Our review is also unique in that we had three members of the Travel on Points team here at the same time.
Booking
We all booked utilizing Hilton points. Since Hilton uses dynamic pricing you will see a variance in points prices. Most vary between 43,000 and 60,000 Hilton Honors points per night. Cash prices range between $300 US and $500. Since Hilton points are valued at around .05 cents per point you will get that with this property and perhaps even more.
Our points were earned via the Hilton Aspire Card and the Hilton Surpass card. If you are under 5/24, the Hilton Honors Business card gives you an option to earn Hilton points as well. Finally, although not typically recommended for a full redemption due to the value, American Express Membership Rewards transfer to Hilton as well.
Check In
The location of Hagia Sofia Mansions does present some unique challenges depending on time of year for your visit. it essentially is on the grounds of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque so some streets were blocked off for Ramadan. This can confuse drivers coming to the hotel. Worst case scenario is you may need to walk a couple of blocks.
We were greeted by friendly staff who began our check in process and offered us beverages. Because of the layout of the property, the mansions are spread out over a large area. Keep in mind, each mansion appeared to have four rooms in it over two floors. You are whisked to your mansion via golf cart if needed. Therefore, if traveling in a group you may want to reach out ahead of time to see if rooms can be located closer together.
Room
The room really is like having your own small apartment. It featured a living room with a TV, a welcome entry area with closet, and a bedroom and bathroom. We found it to be spacious and comfortable. The bathroom was large, well-appointed and included a shower, large tub, and a bidet.
Food
You have two options for breakfast. There is a restaurant that has a full buffet offered each morning. Keep in mind, that they will get you other items if requested. This restaurant is farther down towards the end of the property which was close to one of our members' room. As mentioned, the staff will drive you via golf cart upon request as well. This is a nice feature, but we did enjoy walking the property some mornings.
If you have not had breakfast in an international location, the buffets are elaborate and Istanbul did not disappoint. Not only do you have your normal breakfast items, but lots of meats and cheeses, as well as plenty of Turkish specialties.
There is an a la cart restaurant as well. This is located in the main building, referred to as the “greenhouse.” We did try to dine here one morning, however, it was closed for a private event.
Other
The resort has a Spa which two members of the Travel on Points team did try on our last day. It was a nice facility which includes a jacuzzi that feels like you are in an unground cave. The jacuzzi currently is only available to spa customers or with a reservation. Prices felt reasonable for a resort spa and charged to the room code as a Hilton on your Aspire card for paying the bill.
The resort also has a nice outdoor area that included some food carts, hookah station, and a sitting area. This is also near the spa area. It was a nice area to relax with friends or just enjoy your morning coffee.
Final Thoughts
Hagia Sofia Mansions provides a unique location where you can explore Istanbul easily. The staff was friendly and the food was plentiful and delicious each morning. I think we all thoroughly loved the rooms and location. This location definitely needs to be on your radar for a visit to Istanbul. Have you visited Istanbul? Have a favorite hotel? Come over to our Facebook group and let us know your thoughts.
