This mansion house was built in 1915 as a private residence, but opened its doors in 1999 as a family-run boutique hotel. A pretty red and yellow building, it takes its name from a nearby 5th century Byzantine cistern, and is ideally located to explore Istanbul's other historical attractions.
   The 21 rooms were entirely refurbished in 2010, and, although rather uniform, are well equipped and well decorated. Door and window frames are of dark, polished wood, as is the furniture. Rich carpets, bedspreads and curtains are all co-ordinated.
   The restaurant is reportedly fantastic, serving classic Turkish food. Drinks on the roof-top terrace bar are a must: the view of the nearby Blue Mosque is rather spectacular, particularly at night.