The last time i was in IST on pleasure I stayed at the Empress Zoe. I really liked the place and it's very central - and no more than 30 mins from the airport.

www.emzoe.com.

If you there (or anywhere else) it's best to get them to pick you up. The taxi drivers can be sharks, and the number of zero's gives too much scope for them to rip you off.

There are also the major chain options i.e Hilton - worth a look for any specials.