This bright budget hotel is surrounded by shops and caf's and within walking distance of the Old City. Located near Sirkeci train terminal near Gulhane Park and Topkapi Palace, the Ilkay Hotel is close to the sights yet not inundated with tourists, being a ten-minute stroll from the Sultanahmed area. As a base for sightseeing, the Ilkay functions perfectly, its rooms are clean and quiet with private bathrooms and breakfast is a full buffet spread with deli meats and fresh Turkish bread. Guests here can choose from a range of Istanbul experiences -- the shopping of Taksim's Istiklal Avenue is a quick tram ride away, the ferry port is close for trips over the strait and the Blue Mosque and St Sophia are ten minutes away on foot. Getting in from the airport is also simple using Gulhane train station.