Sanasaryan Han, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Istanbul

Sanasaryan Han stands in Sirkeci, where the historic peninsula meets the Golden Horn. The Spice Bazaar, with its colourful stalls, spice merchants, and famous Turkish delight shops, is a short walk away, along with the Grand Bazaar and Eminönü's street-food stalls. Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are within walking distance, and Karaköy is just across the Galata Bridge.

Designed by Ottoman architect Hovsep Aznavur and commissioned by philanthropist Migirdiç Sanasaryan, the building once housed offices whose rents funded the Sanasaryan School. Today, its glass-roofed atrium, with a light installation inspired by Istanbul's springtime Judas trees, sits at the hotel's heart, surrounded by rare books, historic artefacts, and monochrome photographs of the city by Harun Doğan.

Rooms and suites feature tall neoclassical arched windows, pairing traditional Turkish décor with contemporary comfort. Marble bathrooms draw inspiration from the hammam, and every room includes a Turkish tea set chosen by the hotel's tea master.

Siran, the signature restaurant, celebrates regional Turkish cuisine, with dishes rooted in the flavours and traditions of Istanbul's streets and served with traditional presentation.

Inspired by the great library of the former Sanasaryan College, The Library Bar pairs crafted cocktails and tea tastings with weekly cultural evenings of theatre, music and book presentations.