Swandor Hotels And Resorts Topkapi Palace

Though less flamboyant than its neighboring sister property World of Wonders Kremlin Palace, the Topkapi Palace offers a wide array of options for travelers looking to let loose. The resort was designed to resemble the famous Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, with long friezes depicting Ottoman-inspired scenes, several low buildings around patios with arched colonnades, and even a replica of the complex’s main entrance. The atmosphere, though, is far from what one would expect to find in a real palace -- hundreds of Russian, Iranian, Turkish, and British families fill every corner of the resort, and an active entertainment team keeps the main pool deck bustling and loud. The area around the beach is a tad quieter, with a lawn full of rope hammock and big, colorful pillows under long awnings, and two serene piers -- one with serviced cabanas that guests can rent for a daily fee, and one with more pillows on the ground.

The Topkapi Palace was built in 1999 and, although it was renovated recently, is starting to show its age. In particular, the themed architecture and decor can feel a tad kitschy and dated in areas. Still, it can be a good pick for families who prioritize fun over style. Those looking for something more upscale may prefer the IC Hotels Green Palace, which is generally in the same price range and has more stylish rooms and better food. The Liberty Hotels Lara also has similar rates, as well as an adult-only pool and a more comprehensive all-inclusive package. Travelers wanting to stay closer to the main sights in Antalya may want to consider the Rixos Downtown Antalya, which has a slew of resort-style amenities and pretty grounds -- but no all-inclusive packages.

Swandor Hotels and Resorts Topkapi Palace is located in a somewhat secluded beachfront area east of Antalya, between the sea and the coastal road that connects the seaside resort areas to the airport and the city center. The resort is surrounded by a few dozen similar properties, but there are no shops or restaurants within walking distance. In the area directly north and northeast of the hotel, large greenhouses line both sides of the road, and rural villages with a handful of homes each sprawl over the area between the resort and the D-400 highway. This location feels a little remote, but it offers easy access to the airport, located about 20 minutes away, and the many renowned golf courses in neighboring Belek. Public buses to Antalya stop just a short walk from the hotel.

The hotel has a whopping 908 rooms spread out over four four-story buildings that are set around quiet courtyards with colonnades and manicured lawns. Decor is simple. All but Corner Suites have big glass doors opening onto balconies with views of the pools and/or the gardens, but none offer sea views due to the height of the buildings. Family Rooms are duplex units located on the top floor of each building, and they have slightly more expansive vistas of the surrounding area.

Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs with a few international channels, electric kettles with free tea and coffee, and robes and slippers. Minibars are stocked with soft drinks, juice, beer, and water, and replenished daily free of charge. Wi-Fi is free in the lobby, but there is an additional daily charge for in-room internet access. Bathrooms are clean but basic, featuring shower/tub combos with plastic curtains, older wall-mounted hairdryers, and beige stone counters with sunken sinks.

Rooms are clean and tidy on arrival, but some guests have complained that although sheets and towels are changed frequently, housekeeping isn’t thorough during their stay. Thin walls also seem to be an issue at the Topkapi Palace.

While the beach area is generally quiet and relaxing, the central deck -- home to a semi-Olympic pool, a large freeform one, a zero-entry wave pool, and a kiddy pool with water features -- has a more hopping atmosphere, with music, pool games, and sports. The water park has several waterslides, along with a lazy river and an area for kids. Located at the spa, the indoor pool is a great perk in the winter months, when the entertainment program offers just a handful of activities and all outdoor areas are closed.

The spa has nine treatment rooms (including two for couples) where guests can get a wide array of massages. All treatments are an extra charge, but guests get free access to a Turkish bath, sauna, and steam room. The fitness center is equipped with a good range of cardio and strength-training machines, and there are two tennis and one squash court that guests can use free of charge. Loaner equipment is available for a fee.

The kids’ club has its own entertainment program in several languages for kids 3 and up. Younger children can use the facilities, but need to be accompanied by an adult. The hotel also features flexible meeting space, and a game room with coin-operated arcade machines and a bowling alley. Guests staying at the Topkapi Palace can use all the facilities (including all restaurants and bars) at neighboring sister property World of Wonders Kremlin Palace, free of charge.