Somehow, this was our first ever stay at a Peninsula hotel. The Karakoy district by the waterfront turned out to be the perfect location.|| ||Every aspect of our accommodation and the hotel itself was an absolute joy from the moment we arrived, followed by our first dinner on their wonderful bar terrace while enjoying the view of the hustle and bustle of the Bosphorus under the setting sun.|| ||Hong Kong and Shanghai hotels actually own and operate their very own hotels under their only hotel brand…and there are only ten Peninsula hotels in the world. Having finally discovered what is so special about Peninsula Hotels, my wife and I are looking forward to staying at the Peninsular for our first visit to Hong Kong later in 2026. ||Having experienced The Peninsula in Istanbul, a city I must admit I have avoided for decades, we could not imagine staying anywhere else in Hong Kong, also a manic place which we have always wanted to visit. It seems to me that if you are going to be travelling to a city which is so highly populated and chaotic, staying at a Peninsula hotel is the perfect antidote and balance for the best chance of an overall great experience.|| ||The way this hotel operates reminds me of the precision and harmony of a world class Philharmonic Orchestra at its finest. Every element including the impeccable service which is so relaxed and friendly and yet totally professional on every level, the flawless design and the flow of all departments working together in perfect syncopation come together as if this Peninsular were a Symphony Orchestra under the masterful direction of a skilled maestro. Mr Jonathan Crook runs this great hotel having previously lead the Peninsula in NYC. He actually opened this hotel and was on site overseeing all preparations long before the opening. It really is faultless… we have dined at both restaurants, both wonderful. We felt cossetted and at home as only happens when we are in residence at totally great hotels.|| ||The rooms and suites are so well thought out, whatever you need is there, both technically and when it comes to comfort. Simply entering the hotel is a unique joy due to the two smiling omni present uniformed Peninsula ladies. Also for Peace of Mind, the reassuring hotel security is as good as it gets especially at the main entrance.|| ||We would not dream of staying anywhere else in Istanbul after this. Amidst the general chaos which is Istanbul, the Peninsula is a serene oasis, safe, secure, cosseting and luxurious with the most wonderful people looking after their guests. ||||From the moment we arrived all expectations were greatly exceeded. The Peninsula Istanbul truly delivers and as a result offers great value. We wish we could have stayed longer as this hotel is a destination in itself. ||Management and staff have turned this hotel into a masterpiece with every detail resonating with elegance and perfection and which certainly left my wife and I captivated by the lovely experience. I am aware that all 10 hotels in the Peninsula group have been awarded five-star ratings by Forbes travel guide. I'm not certain but this may be a unique achievement amongst the top level of...
Read moreI have amended my old review to acknowledge the hotel management's prompt response to my issue and its resolution. Highly appreciate their prompt attention and exceptional guest service.
New review: I recently had the pleasure of staying at The Peninsula Istanbul, and I must say, it was an experience beyond compare. From the moment we arrived, we were enveloped in warmth and hospitality. The gracious staff welcomed us with open arms and even offered us a delightful room upgrade, setting the tone for a truly memorable stay.
The check-in experience was extraordinary. As we sipped our drinks on the terrace, overlooking the breathtaking Bosporus view, we were taken on a captivating journey through the hotel's rich history. It was a one-of-a-kind experience that immediately immersed us in the charm and heritage of the place.
Throughout our stay, every member of the staff, from the reception to the housekeeping and restaurant teams, worked seamlessly together to ensure our comfort and satisfaction. The level of harmony and attention to detail was truly exceptional.
The room exuded modern luxury. The high-tech features made every aspect of our stay effortless and convenient. Additionally, the thoughtful gesture of hot Turkish tea and delightful selection of Baklava followed by chocolate cake upon our arrival, in celebration of our anniversary, truly made us feel cherished.
The lobby lounge exuded elegance and sophistication, with live music adding to the enchanting ambiance. Whether enjoying a relaxing afternoon or having a meal, the impeccable service and classic surroundings made every moment unforgettable.
Even when miscommunication arose, the guest relations representative went above and beyond to rectify the situation. As a courtesy, they provided us with luxury transportation to the airport, ensuring that we departed with nothing but fond memories and gratitude. This demonstrates their commitment and prompt response to guest concerns.
The hotel's prime location was the icing on the cake. With easy access to charming alleys, flavorful authentic restaurants, and iconic landmarks like Galata Tower & Galata new Port.
Can't wait to return for more unforgettable memories in this luxurious oasis.
old review: The concierge service at Peninsula Istanbul really let me down during my stay. They advertise a shuttle service within a 4 km radius, but whenever I asked for a ride, they said the car wasn't available and suggested I take a taxi instead. Yet, somehow, the car magically became available for other guests.
The excuses they gave were all over the place. One time they said the car was far away, then they said it was back in the parking lot. It just didn't add up.
What's worse is that it seemed like they were treating Arab guests differently. They offered the shuttle service to everyone else but seemed hesitant or unwilling to offer it to Arab guests. That's just not right.
Overall, the concierge service at Peninsula Istanbul was unreliable and inconsistent. They need to do better with their communication and treat all...
Read moreStayed here for one day and night after disembarking an 11 night cruise. I just wanted a nice place to relax all day and get a good rest before flying back home the next morning. I wish I could have stayed several more days just at this hotel! I booked a suite, overlooking the Bosphorus. The pictures online made it look nice, but I was completely blown away by how large, luxurious and high-tech the suite was. Multiple tablets and touch screens control every aspect of the room and service, from the curtains to the A/C, the lights, the TV, and service buttons. There was impressive surround sound in the rooms. The bed was extremely comfortable, all the furniture was comfy and perfectly placed. The decor was lovely, even the doors were decorative sliding glass. The bathroom was gorgeous marble, the floors were heated. The changing room was large, impressive, and well appointed. The carpet was soft and cozy. There was even a second bathroom/powder room. This is the most amazing room I've ever stayed in and really it is several rooms. Also, the view from our large balcony was amazing.
The service was equally impressive. Every person I encountered was helpful, courteous and kind. Check in was quick and efficient. We arrived before noon and were promptly taken to our suite. The desk attendant guided us to the room and explained all the aspects of the room. After mentioning to him we needed a car, the concierge quickly called the room and arranged a car to the airport for the next day. It was so easy to handle because they took the initiative. The transporation charge included a guide to walk us through the airport check in, immigration, and drive us to our gate. The staff who brought my transportation confirmation and info to the room was so polite, and she was dressed in a proper bell hop uniform. The room service attendant set up our lunch perfectly and was so polite and helpful. The overall esthetic of the hotel is luxurious, proper, safe and relaxing. Every detail is accounted for.
We didn't have time to explore the hotel, we were exhausted from the early disembarkation off the cruise ship, so we enjoyed the room and napped. However, walking through the hotel to our suite and then leaving the next day, the hotel is stunningly beautiful. I want to come back to Istanbul just to stay at this hotel again. Also, now my wife wants to renovate the bathroom at our house after experiencing the one in this suite lol
Beyond first class experience all the way. I'm so glad I picked this hotel over my other 5-star choices, I can't imagine anywhere else...
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