Crowne Plaza Istanbul - Old City by IHG

Nestled within a historic building that exudes an Ottoman feel, this hotel stands out for its prime central location, offering unparalleled access to Istanbul's most iconic attractions. Its blend of classic ambiance and modern convenience makes it an ideal choice for sightseers eager to explore the city's rich history, couples seeking a romantic getaway, and families looking for a comfortable base. The hotel is consistently praised for its attentive staff, spotless cleanliness, and excellent breakfast. To enhance your stay, consider requesting a room away from the main street if you are sensitive to noise, and be sure to utilize the highly-regarded concierge services for seamless planning of your city excursions.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities designed for guest comfort and relaxation. The spa is a notable feature, providing a pool, hammam, and sauna for guests to unwind, though some noted the pool can be cool or requires a mandatory pool cap fee. A fitness center is available, described as basic but sufficient for a quick workout. Guests appreciate the reliable Wi-Fi connectivity throughout the property. The club lounge is highly praised for its exclusive atmosphere, offering complimentary food and drinks throughout the day. While most elevators function well, some guests experienced occasional issues with one being out of service. A unique amenity mentioned is the on-site barber/men's saloon, which received positive feedback for its services.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently praise the cleanliness of the rooms and the hotel overall, with housekeeping maintaining high standards. Most guests found their rooms to be spacious and well-equipped, particularly the premium rooms and suites. However, some reviews indicate that certain rooms appear dated and could benefit from renovation, with minor issues like wear in the bathroom. A recurring concern is the noise levels, especially from the tram noise and general street noise for rooms facing the main thoroughfare, which can impact sleep quality despite some efforts at soundproofing. While many found the beds comfortable, a few mentioned them being too soft or, in twin rooms, too narrow. Complimentary water and coffee makers are appreciated in-room amenities.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast at the hotel receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, consistently described as excellent, with a wide variety of options catering to diverse tastes, including local specialties. Guests highlight it as plentiful and delicious, often setting a great start to the day, though some noted it can get busy. Feedback on dinner and the main restaurant is mixed; while some enjoyed the quality and selection, others found the variety lacking or preferred to dine elsewhere. Room service is available and described as quick and organized, providing a convenient dining option. The bar area is noted as a comfortable spot for drinks, and the club lounge also offers a good selection of snacks and hot meals.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant highlight, placing guests within easy walking distance of many of Istanbul's most popular attractions, including the Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Sultanahmet Square. Its proximity to public transportation is excellent, with a tram stop directly outside and a metro station nearby, providing convenient access to other parts of the city and the airport. The surrounding area is vibrant, with numerous shops and restaurants. However, some guests noted that the pedestrianized street in front of the hotel can make airport transfers and taxi access challenging, sometimes requiring assistance with luggage via a buggy.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service. Guests frequently commend their professionalism and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a comfortable stay. The check-in and check-out processes are generally described as smooth and efficient, with staff often accommodating requests for early check-in or late check-out. The concierge service is particularly highlighted for its invaluable assistance with planning excursions, arranging transfers, and providing local recommendations. Housekeeping is noted for its high standards of cleanliness and daily room maintenance, while room service is described as quick and organized. The bellboys are also frequently mentioned for their helpfulness with luggage.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that while the hotel is a historic building with a classic ambiance, some areas and rooms are described as dated and could benefit from renovation. There were mentions of ongoing roadwork outside the hotel entrance, which could occasionally impact accessibility or contribute to noise. The hotel offers rewards program benefits for loyal guests, with some receiving room upgrades. A unique amenity available is the on-site barber/men's saloon, which received positive feedback. Some guests experienced issues with non-refundable bookings or unexpected charges related to credit card issues, suggesting a need for clearer communication regarding hotel policies.