Taksim Nikea Suites 80

The rooms are tiny, with low quality amenities, and there’s very little space for three people. It’s uphill, so getting around is difficult. The washroom locks and drainage were out of service, and the curtains didn’t work, so light came into the room all the time.

It’s a budget motel in an old converted building, best suited to a single person or a couple who just need somewhere to sleep. The owner was welcoming and accommodating. The location is near Taksim square in Beyoglu, with small restaurants and shops nearby. It’s a 20-minute walk to Taksim area / Istaklal street and 10 minutes to the Main road / Bus stop, but both routes are uphill and steep. Not a good fit for kids or older people with knee problems. The rooms suit couples, but not families or elderly guests. The stairs are very narrow, and the washroom design is a big drawback. Bedsheets and towels were clean, though very old. The shower was good. There’s a small fridge, some dishes, a hot plate, pan, and cutlery. Internet was slow. It was noisy around the building during the day but quiet at night. All the windows lack curtains, so a lot of daylight comes in.

We couldn’t sleep all night because the room smelled strongly of cigarette smoke. The beds and bathrooms were very dirty, and the place felt very unsafe. We had to stay there with my baby, but I wouldn’t recommend it at all. In the morning we literally fled without looking back.

I made a reservation by accident while browsing the website, then cancelled it straight away and asked for a refund. They replied, “Yes, but this isn't our problem, it's yours, therefore no refund is possible.” Their response and the way they handled it were both very poor.