“Nice small hotel close to attractions yet off the beaten path-”

We spent a few days at Bucoleon Palace in April and overall were very satisfied with our experience. The tiny staff is extremely attentive, courteous, and efficient. The rooms are small but comfortable, the bathroom was clean and complete with western comforts. The location of the Hotel is close to most of the touristy attractions in Istanbul, they're all walkable and we never found ourselves more than a 10 minute walk from the hotel when we are out visiting attractions are hitting some of the local nightlife scene (what little there is) that exists as you get a little further away from the mosques. One thing we learned was that if you're young and want to experience Istanbul's real nightlife, stay in Taksim Square (other side of the Galata Bridge). We stayed there the last few nights of our time in Istanbul and loved it. All the major attractions are still walkable (30 min walk) but the scene is much younger and laid back. Overall we were happy with the hotel. I'd reccomend it if you're planning on hitting the main bullet points of Istanbul and want everything to be close. If you're younger and want to experience the non touristy side of the city, I'd say find a nice hotel south of Taksim Square and walk to the attractions by day.

“a hotel with potential if....”

I have chosen this hotel after researching it at different forums. I appreciate the rate and the location of the hotel. However, many minor things can be improved to make the stay more enjoyable. First of all, there is lots of construction going on in the neighbourhood, it's definitely something to keep in mind if you want to have an early night or pleasant evening in. On Saturday night, the drilling from the neighbouring house carried on until 12.30 a.m. Yes, on early Sunday morning after being asked at least 2 times to put an end to it at 10 pm. But the most disappointing bit was when we were overcharged 10 euros for the minibus transfer to Gockcen airport when the receptionist enthusiastically offered to book 2 tickets for us and charched us 15 euros, 5 euros per person extra then the normal flat rate. I know 10 euros is not a big deal, however I feel that such behaviour is unnecessary and unprofessional in the 4 star hotel. There is a flat charge of 10 euros by the airport transfer company and they come to pick you up directly from the hotel. Overall, location is definitely a winner, for everything else you make your own conclusion.