Pera Palace Hotel

We loved the breakfast, especially the pancakes, which were the best I’ve ever had. The hotel’s blend of history and present day works beautifully. I’d recommend seeing the Atatürk Room, riding one of the first electric elevators in history, and walking the stairs to feel the historic carpets underfoot. We stayed with our family and were so happy that we came back just two months later. When a small issue came up with our room, the staff handled it right away and upgraded or changed it. They treated my daughter, who was just a baby, with such attention, care, and respect that she felt privileged and we could really feel the quality of the service. The historical atmosphere is captivating. Highly recommended.

The location gets 4 out of 5 from me because it can be hard to get around if you have mobility issues. Still, my four days at Pera Palace were wonderful, and this first visit, which had been a bucket list dream, felt magical and exceeded my expectations. The staff were friendly, welcoming, and patient from the moment I arrived. I especially loved riding Istanbul’s first electric elevator, such a unique bit of the hotel’s history. Esmanur deserves a special mention for being so thoughtful and attentive, and for going above and beyond when she knew how much I’d looked forward to the visit. The hotel is unforgettable. I’d highly recommend it and already hope to return soon.

We were upgraded to a balcony room overlooking the Bosphorus, and the views at sunset and in the evening were stunning, with the city feeling almost magical. The Orient Bar is a must, and the tea room is equally special, both reflecting the hotel’s heritage and sophistication. We enjoyed the Galata side location much more than Sultanahmet, where we spent a few nights, with great restaurants and lively nightlife easy to reach. The history is remarkable, and the place has a classic, refined charm full of character, not a dated feel. We had a wonderful stay and this will definitely be our hotel of choice next time we visit Istanbul.

We stopped by Pera Palace Hotel for Turkish coffee with a friend, and the hotel’s history was all around us. The elegant old elevator, paintings, and pictures caught my eye, along with the marble floors, ornate ceilings, and polished wood. It felt grand but also warmly lived in. We sat in a quiet little corner of the lobby café. The staff, in classic uniforms, answered our questions about the hotel and pointed out details in the décor without hovering. There was soft piano music in the background, adding to the nostalgic mood. The coffee was robust and aromatic, served in delicate porcelain cups on small trays with water and a neatly cut piece of Turkish delight. The grounds settled at the bottom, and the sweet paired nicely with the coffee and an unhurried chat. Prices are on the high side, which reflects the heritage status and central Beyoğlu location, but the quality and atmosphere felt worth it as a special treat. It’s a memorable spot for Turkish coffee and a taste of Istanbul’s past. Next time I’ll come for longer and explore more of the hotel’s storied rooms.