Fodor's Expert Review Marti Istanbul Hotel
Abdülhak Hamit Cad. No. 25/B, Istanbul, Istanbul, 34435, Turkey Fodor's Choice
Editor's Note: This location is no longer in operation.
In central Taksim, interiors that celebrate contemporary Turkey surround a gleaming central atrium and boast a sophisticated style with nods to Turkey's rich design and textile heritage. Rooms have fluffy beds, 42-inch flat-screen TVs, separate tubs (in some rooms) and rainfall showers, free Wi-Fi, and accents of deep purples and blues; the "Turkish Suites" kick it up a with hammam-inspired marble-and-mosaic Turkish baths, and access to a club lounge (also available to other guests for an added fee). Equally stunning are the restaurants: the casual, first-floor Mixo for 65 types of cocktails, live jazz, and Turkish-Mediterranean dishes; the Gourmet Shop for take-away lunches and fresh pastries; and the mezzanine Quad restaurant and bar for all-day dining, with some tables elevated under an original Turkish tent. In summer months, the rooftop Mixo Terrace offers the same menu as its downstairs counterpart, with drinks and DJ music until late. The top floor spa has five treatment rooms, a glass-enclosed terrace gym with two outdoor Jacuzzi tubs, and—naturally—saunas, steam rooms, and four Turkish hammams.
PROS
- attractive interiors by noted designer Zeynep Fadıllıoğlu
- Taksim location
- choice of dining options
- serene spa
CONS
- about 30 minutes to historic sights in Old Town
- attention to details can be lacking when it comes to service