Overnight stay in Istanbul

Hotel Amira we have booked and fairly close and they have transfers Recommended on TA

I stayed at the Holiday Inn (not too exciting) but they did have a shuttle that took us into the city for one last wandering around and dinner.

I too stayed at the Holiday Inn in December. They do have a shuttle - however, it may only be good for your arrival. Since your departure is so early you will almost surely have to take a cab if you go for the Holiday inn. I just checked the shuttle I got from them (Dec 2011) and the first shuttle leaves the hotel at 5 am.

Thanks for the replies. I figured that I would most likely need a taxi to get to the airport, so thanks for confirming that. I assume getting a taxi at the hotel is fairly easy.

Consider the Airport Hotel. It's on the airport grounds, so close that you can walk to the international terminal in 5 minutes (also free shuttle). Their standard rates are quite expensive, but you can often find deeply discounted rates offered on their website. I stayed there in 2010 and would stay again for an early flight.

I heartily second Frank's recommendation of the Airport Hotel. In September, we too had a very early departure. I didn't want to risk miscommunication with a taxi or other thing. The extra we paid for the hotel, we made up for in peace of mind. The subway is a very short walk from hotel and we spent any enjoyable afternoon and evening in the old town. The most reliable transportation is your own feet.

Airport Hotel seems like the best bet. We get in at 1845 and leave at 0550 so we definitely don't want any problems. Thanks for the info, reservation made!