Ilkay Hotel

Turkey , Istanbul
ISTANBUL, Hudavendigar Cad. - Sirkeci, 28-30
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100 reviews shown

10/10

Exceptional

03 Oct 2025

Peter

Excellent location as a base for a visit to Istanbul. Quiet room and all the facilities worked. Close to the historic sites and very convenient for public transport links.

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

28 May 2025

Sandra

Highly Recommend This Hotel

Great Location to get anywhere in the city you need. Easy walking area right out your door - as well as a tram stop close by. Simple hotel but very comfortable and reasonable. And includes a very nice Turkish breakfast in the adjoining restaurant. A great place to stay in Istanbul. All food and shopping right there and at better prices than any of the bazaars.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

16 May 2025

norman

Really well located hotel with an excellent breakfast. Staff changed our room to the rear of the hotel when we asked a quiet room. I would definitely stay again
Room quite small, but this is to be expected in city centre hotel.

8/10

Excellent

27 Jan 2025

Kathryn Anne

Hello!

I like staying here.

I was very disappointed with the available channels on

the television in my room.

There are no English channels.

I wanted to watch the news once in a while.

I was unable to do so.

Breakfast is good; however, it could be a little more

relaxed for the guests.

One last thing: One day I asked for a wake-up call

and it came about an hour late.

Please check your system.

Thank you,

Kathryn Daley

Business_and_leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

03 Jan 2025

Peter John

A nice hotel - very well situated, room was very clean, all facilities worked and the staff are friendly and helpful.

Leisure Self

8/10

Excellent

17 Oct 2024

Verified traveler

Comfortable & Convenient

I needed a clean, comfortable, and conveniently located place to stay, as I planned to spend most of my time exploring Istanbul. For this purpose, this hotel was a great choice, and I can see why it receives consistently high ratings.

The room was clean, the bed comfortable, and the bathroom well-equipped. Breakfast was included, and the staff were welcoming and friendly. Gulhane and Sirkeci tram and metro stations are just a short walk away, making it very easy to get around the city.

Although my reservation was for the Ilkay Hotel, I was actually checked into the Lalahan Hotel. This was a bit confusing at first but didn’t impact my stay overall.

A few points for future guests and for management:

The adjoining street is very noisy in the evenings, be sure to close your window if you’re a light sleeper.
The lift didn’t work, not a problem for me being on the first floor but not for those higher up.
The television in my room wasn’t working, though I didn’t really need it.
The sealant in the shower is starting to get mouldy and could use a refresh.
Please consider covering the food in the breakfast buffet. Some of it was left exposed, and I noticed flies around, along with guests coughing nearby.

Overall, my stay was pleasant, and I would definitely recommend this hotel for anyone looking for a central, affordable base in Istanbul.

Self

6/10

Pleasant

06 Oct 2024

Kathryn

Hello!

I have stayed at the Ilkay on several past trips.

I was disappointed this last time at the breakfast.
I admit that I get to breakfast during the last 15-20 minutes.
I dislike the way the staff make me feel pressured to hurry.
The staff intends to clean up the area at
exactly 10:30 a.m. and if you are eating, it feels uncomfortable.
I try to hurry.

I want to feel more relaxed on my holiday.
People spend a lot of money to travel, and they don't
want to feel pressure to hurry up and eat their breakfast.
The restaurant staff can clean up without making guests
feel uncomfortable.

The staff at the front desk are very nice as are the cleaning staff.

I like this hotel; just chill out a little at breakfast.

Business_and_leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

25 Aug 2024

Guldaran

Near every where

Leisure

8/10

Excellent

14 Jun 2024

Kathryn

I like this hotel very much.

The breakfast is good.

I wish they were open a little longer in the morning.

My room was comfortable.

The carpeting needs cleaning.

The staff is very nice.

I like the location.

Business_and_leisure Self

8/10

Excellent

10 Sep 2023

Kathryn

I really enjoyed the breakfast and the breakfast staff.

One of the maids kept taking the toilet paper from my room.

I thought that was rude and strange.

My travel guide had a difficult time speaking to me when he would contact the hotel.

Someone told him that they could not connect him to my room telephone.

This became a problem for me until I was able to fix the problem with one of the front desk employees.

The location is excellent; however, the tram line is extremely noisy into the late-night hours.

The noise also starts early in the morning, and it interrupted my sleep.

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

08 Sep 2023

Anastasiia

Very nice hotel, enjoyed my stay, convenient location, breakfast is standard and good, the stuff were very friendly and helpful. Did not have any issue in the room. Cleaning was daily too

Self

4/10

Poor

09 Aug 2022

BENNY

I stayed in this hotel for few days.

Will NOT mention names as I follow the RULES and REGULATIONS of EXPEDIA.

My hotel room bed sheets were NOT CHANGED AT ALL for 5 days, even though I REQUESTED FEW TIMES from the 2 cleaning ladies and also told the house keeping and also requested/complained to the lady at the Hotel Reception.

On my last day, I nice house keeping man changed bed sheets.

For 5 days, I HAD TO SLEEP ON DIRTY SHEETS FROM PREVIOUS GUESTS.

Leisure Self

6/10

Pleasant

28 Oct 2021

Amir

Location was excellent, no better than that this
Room were ok, abit small, we expected to have a refrigerator in our room,, food was below average

Leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

21 Nov 2019

William

Istanbul stop over

A 2 night stay before flight home, convenient location, central, on tram line route, clean and comfy, breakfast typical, Red River pub adjoining is great.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Sep 2019

Verified traveler

Great staff so friendly
Good location
Room size is bigger than other hotels

Leisure Family_with_children

8/10

Excellent

12 Mar 2019

Verified traveler

Great location

Very good compared to budget

Partner

8/10

Excellent

12 Mar 2019

Verified traveler

Great location

Great location

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

10 Mar 2019

Seyla

We love this hotel.

Its very convenient to reach around the city.

Family

8/10

Excellent

16 Sep 2018

Verified traveler

Very clean room in top location!

Very clean room, with good and kind service in a top location in the middle of the old town. Everything is in walking distance.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

18 Aug 2018

saif

very good except my AC was leaking water and didnt fix properly
but it doesnt effect my staying as they solve it temporary.

10/10

Exceptional

17 Aug 2018

zeynab

Zeynab Khaled

Very nice hotel and clean tidy verity of breakfast options very helpful poeple and very handy location in Istanbul I highly recommend this hotel .

10/10

Exceptional

06 Aug 2018

Seyla

Our Istanbul home :)

We stay at this hotel every time we go to Istanbul. We love it!

Friends

2/10

Poor

19 Jul 2018

Adrian

Nothing that is shown on your website about this \"Hotel\" is true.
In fact, it is a hostel or even lower.

6/10

Pleasant

10 May 2018

Kara

Literally on the tram line in Gulhane

Check in was basic WiFi password given keys no porter service. Room was small twin with on suite. It was clean but dated. It was also facing the main tram line so early nights were not an option. Teams run till midnight & start up at 6am.
Breakfast was the most basic we had on our travels in Turkey. On real orange juice some dilute water. There were eggs fresh bread honey cereal but limited hot food. The positive thing with this hotel is it is centrally located near all the main attractions, topkapi 20 mins walk Sultanahmet 10 minutes Bosporus 10 minutes grand bazaar 30-25 minutes.

8/10

Excellent

04 Apr 2018

Saqib

Overall pleasant stay

It was nice small comfortable hotel. Rooms were clean and comfortable bed. Location is good.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

05 Feb 2018

Perdana

Nice Room & perfect Location

Hotel it's really nice & clean, close from Gulhane / sirkeci Metro station. Breakfast was amazing. So many shop near from hotel. Topkapi Palace , Hagia Shopia, Blue Mosque, basilica, just 5 minutes walk from Hotel.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

16 Dec 2017

Hiam

Enjoyed trip

We are really enjoyed, the hotel is really good such as the location, the staff are friendly ,clean ,quite , good price.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

01 Aug 2017

Seyla

Our 4. Stay

Very convenient location:)

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

04 Apr 2016

Nash

Nice hotel close to the centre

Good hotel, I like it very much. Clean easy to get to it.

8/10

Excellent

23 Dec 2015

takeshi

nice hotel staff

It wa just good for the amount I paid for the room. It is located in nice access to everything!

10/10

Exceptional

20 Nov 2015

Donna

Hidden Gem in Istanbul

Comfortable, pleasant rooms close to main tourist attractions and on the tram line. Reasonably priced. Staff was great and very accommodating. This was my second stay here and I will continue to stay here each time I visit Istanbul.

10/10

Exceptional

01 Nov 2015

Verified traveler

Great hotel

Wonderful stay

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

19 Oct 2015

Laura J

Perfect Stay in the Old Town of Istanbul

I did not stay at the Ilkay hotel but in the hotel next door, which is owned by the same company called the Lalahan Hotel.
The Lalahan had just opened in August of 2015 so everything was totally new and in pristine condition. My room was in the rear of the building and was very quiet. The bed was very comfortable, the linens were high quality. The air-conditioning was great. The window did open and provided adequate ventilation. There was complimentary water as well as a kettle for making tea or coffee. Also a small refrigerator was in the room.
The Wifi was free and fast. Also the hotel had an elevator.
The included breakfast had many choices at the buffet. But it was also possible to get freshly made items from the kitchen. The staff brought out a menu with a checklist where you could make your selections and in a few minutes your breakfast was brought out to you. This breakfast was excellent.
The staff at the front desk were very helpful. I was searching for some particular items in Istanbul and the front desk was able to get me pointed in the right direction armed with maps and addresses for finding where I was trying to go. The location is very convenient to the tram T1 line and many of the sights in Istanbul.
I was able to easily take the public transportation from the hotel to Ataturk airport for my flight. The cost was $2 US or the hotel would arrange a private transfer for $30 US.

6/10

Pleasant

16 Sep 2015

Jnk Acme

Ok, just ok

The location is amazing, and the staff very helpful and friendly, unfortunately this hotel is very old and pretty dirty. It is also very noisy (that is actually the main problem.) I had to change room because of the noise but I had the same problem in the other room also as the main noise wouyld come from the water pipes mainly from the toilet. Very bothering, loud and you could hear it mainly in the early mornings. A bit pricey for what you get.

6/10

Pleasant

09 Sep 2015

Haiss

Good enough

This hotel is very nice.
the location is near to everything, the historical sites, the marmara station, eminönü(the sea) and of course the famous Hafiz Mustafa (the best sweets shop in Istanbul)
Moreover, the staff are very friendly and helpful, they are ready yo help you whatever you ask for a location or a restaurant or how to get to a place...
The price is also acceptable... Dont expect to get a super hotel, it's a 3 stars hotel... and you will get exactly what you paid.
Haiss

10/10

Exceptional

08 Sep 2015

haiq l.

Excellent Family Holiday

Location of hotel was brillant it was amazing on your right side you had the ferry port and the station which was a 5 min walk to the station and 10 min to the ferry port. On the left side you have the Hagia Sophia Museum, Topkapi Palace and Museum and the blue mosque. Also a short distance you have the Grand Bazaar. Hotel was clean and tidy and the staff spoke English and were friendly.

Family

6/10

Pleasant

28 Aug 2015

gigi

Visit to monuments

Return trip with my son to visit historical monuments in Istanbul. Situated in the old center of the town, near Aya Sofia and Sultanahmed, it is a good place for visits. However the access to the hotel is difficult. The space in the room is minimal. If, instead of three beds, we had only two, some place for a table and chairs wood have been welcome.

Family

4/10

Poor

27 Aug 2015

Venus L.

Misleading

1. The walls are paper thin, so you hear the plumbing, doors closing, and any footsteps.
2. The nice pictures are of the renovated rooms. Unfortunately, we had an un-renovated one and it was old and dirty.
3. Our window faced a brick wall. Literally.
4.The location is conveniently close to the tram and sultanahment.
5. Breakfast is ok.
6. We had a double bedded room and it was just two twins pushed together.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Aug 2015

Asma

Charming hotel in an ideal location

Great location, great staff, amazing facility, comfortable stay, very clean, home away from home, will come back.
Stayed with my sister for 2 weeks and had the best time ever.
Staff is very nice: servers, receptionists, maids....

10/10

Exceptional

01 Jun 2015

Luke F.

Nice hotel

Nice hotel with easy access to all attraction and a good bar on site

6/10

Pleasant

22 May 2015

James

Solid Hotel

Solid Hotel in a great location. Great access to public transportation and ideally located for walking. Ok breakfast. My only issue was that I had asked for a room on a higher floor and was placed directly over the bar. Only realized that I was over the bar when I came in after a day of walking and tried to get some sleep.

8/10

Excellent

19 Apr 2015

Tarek

Excellent choice for limited budget

- Staff very helpfull and very friendly
- double room somehow small but comfy and very clean
- very close to tram stations and touristic sites, 2 min walk
- breakfast does not offer many options
- excellent choice for limited budget

8/10

Excellent

19 Apr 2015

Eve-Lynn

Comfortable stay in wonderful area of the city

We very much enjoyed our stay in Istanbul. Great walking city and the hotel was in a great area, close to so many of the city's attractions such as the Palace, beautiful park, Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia. The breakfast buffet at the hotel is also very good, with a large assortment of bread, olives, cheese and sliced meats. The manager of the hotel was always very helpful and made our stay at the hotel very easy and comfortable.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

24 Jan 2015

RMUSA

Solid Hotel in an Incredible City

Located along the tram line, this hotel is perfect for someone who is intent on exploring Istanbul. A complimentary breakfast is the perfect way to start the day. The sights of Sultanahmet are a ten minute walk away in one direction and the Egyptian Bazaar and New Mosque in the other direction. When you get back, you will find a clean hotel room.

Family

4/10

Poor

26 Nov 2014

Mark

Great location, not a haven after a long day

The hotel was centrally located, easy walking distance to main attractions. The room was a little tired looking, but functional. It felt a bit like a dorm room, instead of a welcoming hotel room. The room we had was in the older section of the hotel, above a noisy bar, and facing onto a busy (ready more noise) tramline. After a long hard day, we didn't really see our room as a retreat from the vibrant city. Sleeping in the early hours also proved difficult. Perhaps the other side of the hotel would have given more joy? Given the cost and location, I wasn't expecting much, but perhaps a little more.

8/10

Excellent

12 Oct 2014

Canadian couple

Good Hotel with excellent location

I would recommend this hotel. The staff is very friendly and helpful. The room is clean. The best thing about ilkay is the location. Almost all attractions is within walking distance.

Partner

6/10

Pleasant

24 Sep 2014

Verified traveler

suitable for a reasonable price

Convenient location, included breakfast in a pleasant room, accomodations were adequate. The walls were thin and noisy neighbors made sleeping difficult. I would try elsewhere.

8/10

Excellent

11 Jun 2014

Nice people and convenient for sites

This is not an exclusive luxury hotel
Nor at this price should one expect that
It is nicely appointed with nice new cotton sheets in small room with good shower and gels (here congratulations! one of the nicest lavender gel's I have had in a hotel lately)
Our room would have got hot in summer as no a/c and although the window opens it does so onto the tram way
This did not bother us and indeed was convenient

8/10

Excellent

08 Jun 2014

Traveling Professor Mike

Great Old Town Istanbul Hotel

The Ilkay Hotel was much better than we expected for the price in the center of all the attractions in the Old Town area of Istanbul. We especially liked that it was right on the tram line (we could see the Gulhame stop from the front door of the hotel) because we were going to use the tram/light rail to get to Ataturk airport to go home - 45 minutes and $2.00 to get from hotel door to airport. Extremely quiet even though we were on the second floor in the front of the hotel on the street and tram line. Short walk to top attractions and Galata bridge/Golden Horn/Bosphorus. Very nice bathroom and breakfast. Would definitely stay there again. Seemed a very good value compared to 3 other hotels we stayed in in Istanbul, Kusadasi and Bodrum.

Partner

6/10

Pleasant

01 Jun 2014

Verified traveler

Good

Service was excellent.
Beds were not comfortable.
Excellent location.
Carpets need a change!

Family

10/10

Exceptional

08 May 2014

Verified traveler

24 Hour layover

This place was really great. I had a short layover and the hotel was perfectly located to all the major sites. The hotel staff was really nice too and I felt comfortable being a solo female traveler. I would go back to Hotel IIkay the next time I am in Istanbul.

10/10

Exceptional

20 Apr 2014

anita

Everything you need .. In the heart of the city

This hotel was exactly what I was looking for! The Tram station is but a 3min walk.. All the big must-see items are well within walking range and the street it is on is amazing. Now I am a heavy sleeper and after walking around everywhere everyday I was shattered so I slept through the noise of the Main Street - but just buy ear plugs and you'll be fine!

The staff are wonderful and helpful, the attached bar is very handy.

I absolutely recommend this hotel and intend to stay here every time I visit Istanbul - 5/5,

10/10

Exceptional

03 Apr 2014

Jess

great hotel in a great location

This is the best budget hotel we have ever stayed in during our many trips through Istanbul. We love staying on the tram track and you can't beat this location. It is 2 blocks from the tramvay, marmaray, and tren station. The staff was so courteous and helpful. Breakfast was way above our expectations. Our family of four stayed in a family room and it was perfect. I definitely recommend this hotel above others in its class in this area of Istanbul.

Family

8/10

Excellent

23 Jan 2014

devansh

Had a lovely stay

This hotel is located in the best possible place for tourists.we stayed for 5 nights and we did not have to use any kind of transport for first 5 out of the 6 days. everything worth seeing is in walking distance. staff is helpful and responsive. breakfast buffet is nice. can be a bit tricky to find.It is along the tram line between Gulhane and sirkeci tram stations and falls on your right when going down hill.Would recommend this to every budget traveller.

Partner

2/10

Poor

02 Jan 2014

Alan

There is a construction site behind the hotel. This has, apparently, permission to run three shifts over 24 hours, seven days a week. This makes the hotel fine for anything but actually sleeping at night, a fact the hotel manager seems to have difficulty with. We did not appreciate sarcastic offers to stay at his house instead.
Eventually, we were moved to Hotel Erboy around the corner. The staff here were lovely and the hotel far superior. At present, the Alkay is not suitable for anyone to stay there and I suggest that Expedia remove it from their website. Oh, and by the way, we didn't enjoy being lied to about the availability of other rooms in the hotel.

10/10

Exceptional

02 Dec 2013

Allen

Loved it!!

Great location. Easy to reach via Metro/ Tram. Excellent value for the money! We will stay there again the next time we travel to Istanbul!

Partner

8/10

Excellent

10 Nov 2013

Vivek

Excellent location of the hotel, comfortable rooms

Hotel Ilkay was at an excellent location , within walking distance to Topkapi palace, Hagia Sofia , Blue Mosque, Spice Bazaar and other places of interest. The room was standard , but comfortable and clean. Really liked the bedet in the bathroom - but this is standard in Istanbul I was to learn. Staff were helpful and good.
Being next to the tramline and an important street, it was slightly noisy but I'm used to noice and it didn't bother me much. It's sister Hotel ( can't remember the name) , which is a few streets away , is in a quiter lane.

10/10

Exceptional

04 Nov 2013

Verified traveler

Good location

only five minutes walk to sultan ahmet and haja sofia and other museums. Staff sre helpful and room cleaned every day

2/10

Poor

16 Oct 2013

Verified traveler

not good

lifts not working, lights not working, horrid room, rude receptionist. After complaining, we were immediately moved to a sister hotel which was very good. I would not recommend the Ilkay unless you are used to staying in a hostel.

8/10

Excellent

16 Oct 2013

E.S.

Excellent!

The hotel is at a great location in Sirkeci. It is 2-3 minutes walk to Sirkeci tram station, about 8-10 minutes to Eminonu ferries that can take you in various directions, two tram stations or 15 minutes walk to Sultanahmet, 10 minutes walk to Spice Bazaar, and about 15-20 minutes walk to Kapali Carsi (Covered Bazaar). The service at the hotel is very good. I was placed at a room above the construction site the first night. In the morning, I went to the front desk and asked about the room change, which was attended to promptly. Breakfast at the hotel is very good, with enough choice - both meats and vegetarian. I wish they served Turkish coffee for free at breakfast. All in all, highly recommended.

8/10

Excellent

05 Oct 2013

Steve

Great Price, Great Hotel!

I was pleasantly surprised. It's a one of hotels that's a bit dated but well maintained. Breakfast is simple but sufficient (European style). Our triple room was big and the location is the selling point! Compared to staying at more int'l newer hotels, I'll stay here. The price is low compared to most IST hotels, service was excellent, check-in/check-out was smooth. They have a airport driver that is only $5 USD more than the typical taxi so I highly recommend it. Plus, the Mercedes Benz van is far more comfortable than the typical small IST taxis. I will definitely stay there again.

8/10

Excellent

20 Sep 2013

visitor

Good value

Clean, basic, efficient, well located, quiet(ish) - apart from building work on the new underground close by the the rear of the building, lovely people.

10/10

Exceptional

31 Aug 2013

Cole's Gramma

Awesome!

No, this is not the Ritz Carlton, but it is wonderful. The staff is amazing and ever so helpful. They will do anything possible to make your stay great.

The location is perfect. It is within walking distance of the must-see sites which makes things very convenient. The breakfast is more than adequate. The only problem with any place in the old city is the traffic since there are narrow streets everywhere you go. There is a tram line practically outside the door which makes getting outside of walking distance in the area even easier.

If I ever come back to Istanbul there is no doubt as to where I would come. I think you could spend double, triple, or even quad times as much for a hotel and not be as happy.

10/10

Exceptional

27 Aug 2013

Jirka

Can't be closer to all important places

Hotel Ilkay is a very pleasant place to stay in Istanbul, everything important is in the walking distance and the hotel itself offers a clean, climatized shelter with complimentary Wi-Fi internet connection and very welcoming staff.

10/10

Exceptional

28 Jul 2013

Mohammed

Perfect hotel in a great location.

Staff are friendly and very helpul. I would highly recommend this hotel for everyone and cannot find any fault whatsoever. The location is good too with most attractions a short walk away plus transport access is good too.

8/10

Excellent

16 Jul 2013

kato

Convenient Location, Great Customer Service

The personnel is really helpful in this hotel. They voluntarily helped me to pull my luggage to Tram station. The location is very convenient. The room is very small but clean and comfortable. The breakfast buffet is nice too.

10/10

Exceptional

16 Jul 2013

Nemtallah

Nice hotel close to everything in the old city

It is nice and clean, close to everything with a very reasonable price

8/10

Excellent

13 Jul 2013

Carlos The Forester

Great Location, Helpful Staff

The Hotel is OK for the money you pay.
The rooms are clean and the breakfast is OK (but I don't recommend the cured meat).
The reception staff was very helpful.
They have a restaurant (Red River) with very decent prices where you can hear some R&B and watch some western posters.
Its ad mid point of Hagia Sofia and The Egyptian Bazaar

Family

10/10

Exceptional

09 Jul 2013

John

Will stay here again

Hotel Ilkay was a bright point in my trip to Istanbul. The service was always helpful, the breakfast was reasonable (and included), the rooms were modern and comfortable, and it was easy walking distance to most everything in Sultanahmet. One star docked for the near lack of window (a few inches from a stone wall), and for the surrounding neighborhood that was a little sketchy at night (though not a lot different from the rest of Sultanahmet honestly). Neither of these were a problem for me though, so a solid 5 stars overall from me.

8/10

Excellent

04 Jul 2013

Anne

Excellent value in a great location

the staff were great, the location fantastic, the bar next door which is part of the hotel very welcome. My room was clean and the size of the room was fine. The kettle in the room and daily bottle of water was great. The bathroom excellent and, the shower was particularly good however there was not a window in my that could be opened and no daylight. Overall it was excellent value for money and I would stay there again.The hotel is on a road with trams but I did not hear them in the hotel.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

30 Jun 2013

Graham

Pleasing hotel experience

The position of the hotel was superb, it was a comfortable walk to all the main sights in th old town and the ferry wharfs Although the room was small it was comfortable, the tv was good, the air con worked well, we had tea making facilities, and the wi-fi worked every time. The bathroom was fairly new and was very nice. The breakfasts were very good, with variety.
The Red River Pub which is attached to the hotel is a great spot to have a cold drink, late afternoon, after walking your legs off. The staff were all very pleasant and helpful. A good experience overall.

10/10

Exceptional

11 Jun 2013

Verified traveler

Hospitality!

I was pleasantly surprised by the service and hospitality at this hotel. They made sure to make me feel comfortable, giving me directions around the city and even making sure I had their phone number in case I got lost. They arranged my transfer for the next morning and made sure to have a special breakfast laid out for me as my transfer left earlier than their scheduled breakfast. Excellent!

8/10

Excellent

19 May 2013

Ed W

Near Old City

Hotel Ilkay offers fairly priced accommodations within walking distance of most places that visitors to Istanbul would want to go. The hotel is located directly on the street where the tram line runs. The noise from it did not bother me, but some people may find it so. The rooms are clean and the receptionists were accommodating and helpful, however rooms are quite small, but probably the norm for Istanbul. Breakfast left a little to be desired. Would return, but only at the right price. I found that at the time I booked, hotels.com was offering a cheaper rate than the hotel's own website. Beware though if you are going to take the hotel's private car or ask them to order a taxi for your return to the airport. I did hear different prices quoted to different people, myself included.

8/10

Excellent

08 Apr 2013

Pierre

Good budget choice

This hotel is a good choice for a limited budget. It is very well situated and the front desk personnel is very friendly and helpful!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

31 Mar 2013

Cazz

Clean, comfortable, helpful.

Expectations not high as billed as budget hotel. However if you are looking for a clean, comfortable bed for the night, and are going to spend your time in Istanbul, rather than the hotel, this place is perfect. Staff very helpful, breakfast plenty of options (no full English here, but that's not really my thing). Would definately recommend. Very easily accessible 3 min walk from Gulhane tram station. !0 min walk from Topkapi palace, Aya Sophia and Sirkeci train station (Orient Express) Visit Basillica Cistern too, very
atmospheric.Surrounded by restaurants. Very good value for money.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

25 Mar 2013

Verified traveler

Highly recommended

Great hotel, really good location with very helpful staff. Excellent value for money.

8/10

Excellent

13 Mar 2013

Verified traveler

It was comfotable

10/10

Exceptional

25 Feb 2013

RobB

Great location with old world charm

The hotel was easy to find and the metro/tram connections from the airport come right by the door. Location in the middle of the the old sector made access to the sights easy, especially convenient for dropping back for a spare pullover. Staff were friendly and helpful, and continental style breakfast showed good variety. I particularly enjoyed the honeycomb on a stand that you could have fresh from the comb. Hotel was spotless and the 2 room suite had enough room for collapsing after a day seeing the sights. I was worried that the amazing hospitality of the local merchants was merely a lead up to selling us something, until when we were on the way to the airport our travel card ran out of money. While we were fumbling for a note, a passing stranger used his travel card to see us on our way with a cheery \"Welcome to Turkey\".

Partner

6/10

Pleasant

04 Dec 2012

aakk

OK for short term business stay

The hotel has definite drain problem, time to time there was quite unpleasant smell all over the place, room and bathroom are extremely small. Don't expect anything above average. Eating places are in close proximity and many available. Tram stops are close.

8/10

Excellent

22 Sep 2012

Well traveled girl

Great Location and Value

It is a centrally located hotel and so close to a tram stop. You are right on the tram line but even having a room that overlooked the line didn't bother me ( and I am a light sleeper). It was easy to find where ever I was in Istanbul by asking directions to the tram line. The rooms are European Basic but very comfortable and clean. I would stay here again. The only thing is the telephone number listed is a wrong number it goes to a private house.

10/10

Exceptional

12 Jun 2012

Erik

Would stay again

The hotel is in a perfect location for getting around on foot and has plenty of good places to eat nearby. Red River cafe/bar which is part of the hotel next door is great. Breakfast is reasonable. The rooms are nice, but half way through our stay they took away our comforter and replaced it with a thin bed spread that wasn't as nice. We asked if we could have it back, but I think that got lost in translation as we just got an extra bed spread. No big deal as it was the last night. Very nice staff.

10/10

Exceptional

08 Jun 2012

Hitesh

5 star value for money

The hotel is ideally located in the Sultanahmet/Serkeci district of Istanbul between the Gulhane and Serkeci Tram stations. Central to all tourist hotspots. Only 10 mins to the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, New Mosque and Galata Bridge (where there's great views of the coast and an under-bridge row of diners/restaurants). Staff and service are both 5 star. They have their own Western themed Pub on the corner of a very busy street. Had a fantastic and unexpected great time at this hotel and in Istanbul.
P.S. Stay clear of the extortionate rates of the Guiness Pub around the corner. Drinks are twice the price of anywhere in Istanbul!

Family

10/10

Exceptional

03 Jun 2012

Tom Miami

Great Location, clean and unique

The rooms are clean, valueable, comfortable, staff and service on time, breakfast with great selection and very good tasting. Public transportation right at the door and all important amenities around the corner.

10/10

Exceptional

30 Apr 2012

Tom Miami

Great location, amenities, staff and service

The hotel is in a great location with access to public transportation (trams, trains and subways) plus it is close to the old city, the markets, and to Hagia Sophia.
The breakfast is excellent and the room service on time. Wireless internet is free and staff is very friendly. Rooms are clean.

8/10

Excellent

27 Apr 2012

FM786

family getaway

nice clean room.great location.walking distance
to major attraction.

10/10

Exceptional

16 Apr 2012

Kate L.

Great location, very clean, wonderful breakfast

We stayed at Ilkay in April, 2012. Overall, we couldn't have been happier with the hotel. It was centrally located between almost all the major sights in Istanbul, and very close to a tram stop to reach the more distant locations. The rooms themselves are very clean and comfortable, although they are smaller than standard US hotel rooms. The staff is great, and the continental breakfast was always delicious. There was a wide assortment of items from breads/pastries to cereals to cold meats and cheeses. Overall, we would definitely recommend it to anyone.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

27 Mar 2012

old nomad

good location

located in the old town in between the two stops of light rail train, quite easy to walk over to either of the stations.
also close to the seaside, Eminonu, where there's a general train station.
the room is small but clean and breakfast is also good for travelers.
staff is helpful in english especially in this country.

8/10

Excellent

14 Nov 2011

jimmyjones

great location, good clean rooms

the only drawback is the carpeting was a little old. however the cleanliness overall made up for it. ideal location for exploring istanbul.

8/10

Excellent

16 Oct 2011

James

Good hotel and good price

Hotel is in a great location to get around the city. The room was for the price and clean most importantly. Great service from the hotel staff willing very helpful

6/10

Pleasant

24 Sep 2011

kiwijudy

great place for a hotel

The staff was great and the place was very clean. The rooms tended to be a little on the small side but with a good size bathroom. They definitely need softer mattresses. Their breakfast buffet was excellent. The location for eh hotel was great easy distance to most of historic area in town, the tram, the train station , tons of restaurants in the area, even a walk to the waterfront was not that far.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

16 Jun 2011

Rene

Great affordable hotel in perfect location

This is a great hotel, affordable and clean, with friendly and helpful staff. The twin bed room we stayed in was small but not a problem for a 3-day city break. The best about the hotel, however, is it's perfect location if you are a tourist: very close to the Topkapi, the Blue Mosque or Gulhane park. Recommended!

8/10

Excellent

23 May 2011

Karina

Good location, comfortable stay

Great location and within walking distance of most tourist attractions. Could do with a lick of paint but a comfortable and clean stay with a good buffet breakfast

Partner

8/10

Excellent

15 Apr 2011

Verified traveler

Birthday trip

It was sub zero weather during our stay in early March and the cosy warm room was a welcome retreat at the end of the day. The hotel was under renovation, which it needed so when it's complete it will be an even better place to stay. For the price we thought it was good value, the staff were very friendly. We especially enjoyed going to their resturant, Red River which had a cowboy theme, food was great and inexpensive, with massive portions! They should advertise this better on their webpage. We walked to all the major sights, but you could get a tram just metres from the front door if you wished. We made our own way to and from the airport using the local transport, which we wouldn't have done if it wasn't for the tram stop being so close to the hotel. We managed it easily even with a pushchair and 2 suitcases.

10/10

Exceptional

01 Feb 2011

REKHA

HOTEL ILKAY...***** ISTANBULS BEST SERVICED HOTEL....

VERY CLEAN AND GOOD SERVICED HOTEL..GOOD BREAKFAST..

8/10

Excellent

31 Oct 2010

Zoe

Basic accommodation in a great location

The location could not be better: 5 minutes walk to ferry port, Topakapi Palace, hundreds of restaurants and Blue Mosque.
The rooms are clean but not luxurious: small TV, not very soft towels and basic plumbing. Our room was just above the busy street so a litle noisy, but perhaps a fair sacrifice for the location.
The breakfast is served in the basement so few marks for ambience but there is a large range of foods on offer: fruit, yoghurt, boiled eggs, cheese, hams, olives, breads etc.
In short, this hotel would suit you if you don't want to spend too much or take time travelling to places. If you want to explore Istanbul rather than sit in your hotel room, this one's a winner.

10/10

Exceptional

06 Oct 2010

John

Comfortable room, convenient location

The walls were painted a restful green, the drapes were colorful. This helped make the room comfortable and cheery. Nice breakfast buffet with good variety of choices. Hotel is located approximately mid-point between the major tourist area, Sultanahmet , and the dock area, Eminonu. One can easily walk to both.

6/10

Pleasant

13 Aug 2010

Kevin

Toilet stained, Neighborhood not convenient

The toilet was dark in the bottom, at the first sight I thought it was stuck with xxxx. But after flush I understood it was stained. Other conditions are fine with me. At the 2nd day my room was not cleaned. maybe they just forgot? The hotel neighborhood is not so convenient. There are not so many restaurants or shops/groceries around, so we have to take a taxi to the nearby Kizilay for food.

8/10

Excellent

07 Aug 2010

Fred

Hotel Ilkay - Istanbul, Turkey

If you're traveling light, this is the place. Right where the ancient sites are like Blue Mosque. It's close to tram station (actually the tram line goes in front of the hotel). No vehicles allowed on street in front though so you have to walk but not too far.

10/10

Exceptional

04 Jul 2010

Anonymous

Hotel was good until the second

Hotel was good until the second morning when sewerage started to flow into the breakfast room from the two airconditioning units on the back wall. The staff quickly cleaned up the mess and from the trucks outside the hotel I suppose that it was a matter beyond their control.However one cannot rule out the risk of Cholera in a situation like that so we ate our remaining two breakfasts at a cafe up the road. Otherwise we had absolutely no complaints about the hotel facilities or the staff, although the cleaning people failed to see a dirty coffee cup on the stairs for 3 days until we pointed it out to them.

10/10

Exceptional

16 Jun 2010

George

Small, cozy, neat, comfortable, quiet, great location!

Everything was great, will most likely stay there next time!