Spina Hotel

I had the displeasure of staying at this hotel whilst in Turkey last. Apparently I took the last shower in Istanbul the day I arrived; at least the hotel staff promptly advised my travel mate that the sudden lack of water was throughout Istanbul and nothing could be done about it. Surprisingly, shortly thereafter, as we made our way to the Aya Sofia I noted that my mate could shower in the one of the public fountains that were working in the vicinity. On the one hand, I did find it amusing, however, when the hotel concierge locked my... more

Hotel Spina has a great location. We were a 3-5 minute walk to the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. 15 min walk from Topkapi Palace and great access to transit systems AND Turkish bath houses! The roof terrace was great. Nice to have a beer or cool drink in the summer up there, day or night. But beware, the price of beer is quite expensive when you buy it from the hotel. The staff was very friendly and the rooms were very clean. Breakfast consisted of yogurts meats, cheeses, wonderful bread, boiled eggs, fruit compotes and... more

Smooth sailing at the Spina, from arrival to departure. Picked up at the airport by Ali. Nice room, fantastic location, rooftop breakfast (inside or out), staff couldn't be better. Spent one month in Turkey (Ankara, Nevsehir [Cappadocia], Antalya, Izmir, Seljuk), 5 nights at the Spina. Double room with b'fast $60.86 and free pickup at airport, this was was our most economical stay. For us, my wife and myself, and a colleague, this was the perfect spot for exploring Sultanahmet.

Arrived on our first night around 11.30pm to be told our room was not available because the previous occupant was in hospital, but it was expected the room would definitely be free the next afternoon (??) Being very tired, and also being of a naive, trusting nature; we didn't question this. We were taken to another hotel a few streets away. Upon returning to Spina the next day, and when asking a different member of staff if " the lady who was in hospital was okay", he had no idea what we were talking about. The penny then dropped, and we... more

Sultan Ahmet is a great location to stay. Just 5 minutes walk from Top Kapi, Aya Sofia and the Blue Jami. Many restaurants all around. Traditional neighbourhood. Clean, small hotel with very pretty points. All wood, traditional turkish carpets, unbelievable view from the roof (where the breakfast is taken). Avoid the receptionist who is trying to send you to his friends and sell you carpets and stuff. There is no free parking. There is a public parking just behind the hotel. I payed 50 Euros for 3 days to a man who has a store in the parking... more