Hotel Olimpiyat

The soft beds and good location were the bright spots. Sati at the desk was also kind and responsive when we needed something. Barat, though, wasn't much help, and spoke so loudly that you could hear him on the third floor. We asked for another pillow and had to chase it up. The lobby and exterior look nice, but the rooms were very dirty. The carpet was gross, the shower had mold, and the sink was dirty. Our room smelled musty, and it was so cramped that finding space to open two suitcases was hard. Once we managed it, we couldn't get around the bed to reach the window. The air conditioning didn't work. A man came to the unit and black, dirty water poured out. Disgusting. Staff need better customer service.

The location was the best part, with Topkapi, Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cisterns, shops, and restaurants all about a 10 to 15 minute walk away. Breakfast was continental, with cheeses, ham, potatoes, boiled eggs, a couple of cereals, fruit, cake, and bread. Go early. The reception looked stylish and smart, so room 302 came as a shock. It felt like a single room with a double bed wedged into a corner. We asked to move and got twin room 409. Both rooms had old, stained carpets and felt grubby, and clearly needed decorating. Friendly staff did their best to keep them clean. Would I stay again? Mmmm.

For the price, breakfast was very good, and it was included. The room was spotless, housekeeping did a great job, and the beds were really comfortable. The bathroom felt a little tight, but that didn't bother me. It's right in the heart of Fatih, close to Topkapi palace, Ayasofya, and the Grand Bazaar. The price was reasonable, and I'd come back to this hotel on my next Istanbul visit. A great experience.

My mother and I have never felt so unsafe in a hotel. Staff kept letting themselves into our room with a master key without knocking, at any time, including at night. When we objected, they acted as if they didn't understand English, then claimed they could enter any room whenever they wanted for cleaning. They were extremely rude, and I found their behavior dangerous. The room also had a broken window, a foul smell, and a dirty bathroom. They said they'd move us, but never did. There was nobody willing to listen to our complaints. No one should have to compromise on safety, and that's exactly what happened to us here. Women especially should avoid this hotel.