I visit Istanbul every year with my family, and every year we stay at Dekalp — we've been loyal guests since the year it opened. I can't say enough good things about the hotel, the staff, and the owner.
The hotel is clean and beautifully kept, and its location near the ferry docks makes getting around the city quick and easy. Instead of sitting in traffic for hours to cross the bridge, you get to take the boat — a genuinely meditative experience, feeding seagulls and taking in Istanbul's historic skyline along the way.
Breakfast is wholesome and generous. Whatever you ask for, the kitchen either has it on hand or sends someone out to get it. As the mother of a very picky eater, this has been a lifesaver.
The staff are consistently friendly, helpful, and well-trained — it's clear the owner hand-picks his team and holds them to a high standard. You can tell he brings real expertise in hospitality to how he runs things, and that his top priority is making every guest feel comfortable and well cared for.