Astan Hotel Galata

“Hidden gem in the centre of the historic Galata area”

I loved everything about the hotel - from the location, to the security, homely service, breakfast, and room. Being a solo female traveler I was a bit skeptical about how I would travel around but the hotel's location in Galata made it so convenient for me to travel to all the key areas and tourist… more

I loved everything about the hotel - from the location, to the security, homely service, breakfast, and room. Being a solo female traveler I was a bit skeptical about how I would travel around but the hotel's location in Galata made it so convenient for me to travel to all the key areas and tourist attractions - Istiklal Avenue, Taksim Square, etc. all are walking distance from the hotel. Traveling to and from the Sabiha airport is also convenient with the Havabus facility in Taksim being so close by (taxis take between 10-20 lira from Taksim Square to the hotel). PROS - Very homely atmosphere, no lengthy check in, check out process. - Location is amazing. You can literally do all your souvenir shopping last minute as the shops are right outside the door. Galata Tower is a 2 minute walk away. Galata Bridge is a 5 minute walk away and so is the tram station from where you can reach Sultanahmet, Dolmabache Palace in less than 10 minutes. The Ferry cruises are also walking distance as it's just across the Galata Bridge. - Service was very personable and flexible, and not too intrusive. I also truly appreciated the hotel's patience in changing my reservation dates so many times and being so flexible. - Room was bright and loved the white theme. The beds were really comfortable and just what I needed after an entire day of walking around. - Bathroom was clean with sufficient amenities like body wash, cream, etc. - SMART TV in the rooms - can watch Netflix, YouTube, etc. - WiFi was of good speed. CONS - Housekeeping should be given more attention to, especially Bed and Wash linen. Found a big hole in one of the towels, but this was only once and possibly an oversight. - A few maintenance issues in the rooms like a broken wardrobe handle, some chipped off furniture, etc. need to be looked into to make this hotel perfect. Note: - Some travelers (especially families and older people), may find the location of the hotel a bit inconvenient as you have to climb about 70 steps to reach it. So not ideal for those with a lot of luggage, however taxis can drop you at the hotel entrance. - Breakfast is the same everyday (some cheese, dried fruit, salami, jam, butter, bread served tapas style), so those expecting a varied buffet breakfast like in other hotels will be a bit disappointed. I didn't mind this at all as the breakfast was filling for me and the view made up for the lack of a buffet. The hotel could add some fans in the breakfast area as it gets especially hot during summer. - There's no restaurant/bar in the hotel, but because of its location you won't miss this as there's so many options around. All in all a perfect place for solo and couple/group travelers who are looking to stay in the heart of the historic/artsy part of the city. Will definitely stay here again!

less