Hotel Cenka Ephesus

The room was basic, but I slept well despite the smell of past smoking on the nonsmoking side. The location is the main advantage. Breakfast wasn’t great, especially after trying Turkish breakfasts at lots of other hotels. It’s an older building, with a tiny elevator that’s mostly useful for luggage. I’d avoid the bathrooms by the lobby and restaurant, they need fixing.

The quiet spot and grocery store next door were handy, and the beds were comfortable. There was an extra duvet and blanket in the closet, plus a minifridge, AC, and a shower with good pressure. The bathroom fixtures were worn and in poor shape. Its vent connects to other rooms, so noise and fumes came through, and sound carried badly from the hall and neighboring rooms. Breakfast was disappointing too. Food was set out at 7 when service began, then mostly left there without being replenished, so it’s better to arrive early.

There’s a tiny bar onsite and a patio at the back, though I didn’t use either. Breakfast had nice options, and the hotel sits on a street with dining, a convenience store, and a beer and liquor shop. Walk farther up the street for more tourist options and ATMs. It’s quieter than the nearby main road, with local buses and taxis a short walk away. My room and bathroom were very tight, but I was on my own, so it worked. I think there were only a few wall hooks for hanging things. One plug by the bed didn’t work. The manager said it would be fixed on day one, then two days later said it couldn’t be repaired. The only working plug was far from the bed. After busy days of sightseeing, I wanted to post photos from bed, not from an uncomfortable chair. I probably rated the place too generously, but it was okay. I hadn’t booked it myself, our tour stayed there for a couple of days, and I like that the tour company supports locally owned businesses.

The lobby was roomy and comfortable for hanging out, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The rooms were cute and super clean. Breakfast was great, a traditional Turkish spread with a few extras.